January- Catch up!

Well, it obvious to me, every time that I look at my blog, how much life has changed with number four.  Even before he was born I felt the impact of number four in our family.  He has been such a great gift to our family- lots of smiles, giggles, hugs, kisses... but the little time that I once had to myself- well, its no longer my own.  Rarely do I have time for such things as blogs, emails... yet alone sleep :).  So, after not posting for months I once again am trying to play catch up.  Mostly so family can see pictures of the kiddos.

Has time gone by so quickly.  Jedi is 5 months old in January and starting to eat baby food.  He is happy to add some yummyness to his diet and is starting to put on some much needed weight.

Relationships are everything in China.  I'm continually learning more about this fascinating culture and how to be more relational with those that are so kind to let me share their world with them.  Well, in January our family was planning to go to the local Zoo.  We invited a few friends and were pleasantly surprised by some special treats upon our arrival at the zoo.  A friend of a friend holds a high position at the zoo and had a day full of privilege for us.  First a super yummy meal, second an opportunity to hold a baby orangutan (Chris labeled this picture 'mix up in the nursery')- poor thing was so nervous- she clung onto her little blanket for dear life.    

Then CJ and I were given fish to feed to the grizzly bear.  We were told to hold the live fish in our hands, and swing our arms in a circle over our heads.  The bear stood on it's hind legs and spun in a circle.  Then we were to through the fish to the bear and he would catch it... CJ and I both were not very good at the toss- oops!

We were than treated to free 20 minute rides on the bumper boats.  It was so great to be with our Chinese and America friends for the day.  The Lord is so good to give us such sweet friends... we know they are a gift from him and we are thankful.  We have experienced life with and without- we're thankful for the gift of friends.

I couldn't resist the sign.  Walking on the grass is a big No No!

"Grass smiling, please let it alone!"