June 2, 2007 - Doctor's appointment and pearl market

One year ago today, we had our first full day on Shamian Island in Guangzhou. The island sits in the Pearl River. All the buildings along the river were lit up like Vegas when we got to the hotel the night before. We got into the hotel in early evening, but really weren't hungry. I think we just grabbed some snacks from a little store at the hotel.

In the morning, I accompanied Sophie to her physical while K and EJ decided to explore off the island a bit (they were looking for a McD's!). A physical is required to make sure the babies are healthy before leaving China.




Sophie passed with flying colors and was very happy about that!

After lunch, the ladies and a few of the guys went to the Pearl Market, the largest pearl wholesaler in China. In this photo below, fellow adoptive mom A was placing her order, but notice the displays behind the counter and the BAGS of pearls of all shapes, sizes, and colors piled up on the floor behind her.

These two young ladies strung pearls for me while I watched. I purchased three strands and matching earrings for the girls and myself, as well as a strand for a friend's daughter who was graduating, and a strand for my niece who is getting married next weekend (we gave them to her while we were on vacation a few weeks ago!). I also bought a strand of turquoise and matching earrings from another shop. The market was amazing - six stories high and ALL JEWELRY stores. What fun!

That night, we ate dinner in the Italian Restaurant on the 2nd floor of the White Swan hotel with another family. Their older daughter, F and EJ had a waterfront table and liked watching the boats go by. I have to say that pasta tasted pretty good after 10 days of Chinese food!