Day 7: Great Wall, Jade factory, Summer Palace

I typed an entire post last night and this morning it's gone....so sad. I don't have much time to retype because we're meeting our guide in an hour to tour the Beijing Zoo and a Buddhist temple.

Yesterday was another great day. We really enjoy touring with the other couples and seeing the sites. It was a very HOT and long day. Benjamin went to "nap" at 4 p.m. but slept until 7 a.m. this morning!! 

Ben slept in yesterday too so we packed breakfast from the buffet for him to eat in the van on the 1 hr. ride to the Great Wall. We met our guide, Shirley, and the other other families downstairs at 8:00 a.m. Traffic was horrible even for a Saturday. According to Shirley, everyone heads out of the city into the country for the weekends. 

Our first stop was a Jade Factory for a tour and demonstration on the various types of jade. Very interesting - over 80% of jade originates in China. Then, on to the big sell. We had an hour in the shop before meeting our guide. We purchased a rat pendent for BenBen (year of the "rat"), a serpent statue for Sam (year of the "serpent"), a Buddha for Sam (just because they're cute -- and look like BenBen) and a "Happiness" pendant for me. According to Shirely, this is a legit place so we purchased our first souvenirs.

The next stop was The Great Wall....WOW! Breathtaking to see in person. We drove up a mountain - winding curves - and then Ben projectile vomited. The orphanage had warned us of motion sickness. Not so good. No spare clothes - just lots of water and wipes to clean up.

The pictures do not do the Great Wall justice. It was a beautiful day but VERY hot. A nice breeze at times though. The Wall is over 4,100 miles long so there are many entry points. Mostly all Chinese touring but a few Europeans and even a few Americans. We hiked to the first tower (at our entry point) and it was AMAZING!!! I wish we had time, without kiddos, to spend an entire day. It's that beautiful. The steps are insanely uneven and extremely steep. I carried BenBen on my back in the Ergo carrier to the tower. People were in amazement...even cheering me on. It was hysterical. Mama is strong like BenBen!!! I must admit, my legs are still shaking this morning but it was worth it!!!! Ben enjoyed every step - giggling as I bounced him down every stair. Once in a lifetime, I wasn't going to miss it! :)

We then headed to lunch at a major tourist spot with large souvenir shop. Would not have been our first choice and the food was just ok. Our group sat at a round table with a lazy Susan of preordered food -- not knowing what anything was. I ate something that kinda looked like fried shrimp...but didn't taste like it. Hmmm......Sam ate some white rice. Nothing else. Ben liked the chicken and that's about it. No noodles served this day. Sam purchased an ink stamp with his name engraved in English and Chinese. Our group would have preferred a local Chinese restaurant vs. dining amongst 4 dozen touring buses. Our guide left to eat "hamburgers" with her niece visiting from the US, so we were on our own...and totally ignored by the wait staff. No drinks offered to us while all the Chinese around us were served. We weren't feeling the love....Sam finally got up and grabbed a pitcher of water from a cart. Hope it wasn't tap water!

From there we visited the Summer Palace....this was the Imperials summer home and spans nearly 700 acres, including a large man made lake. We walked along the lake and took a dragon boat back to the entrance. It was a beautiful place but still extremely hot, crowded and overloaded with vendors trying to sell us any/everything. The vendors are extremely persistent and don't take no for an answer. It's a shame...such a beautiful park but we're so distracted by the constant picture taking (of us) and the vendors...and the pushy crowds. For the most part, the Chinese don't have "personal space" and have no issue invading yours. Sam is like a rock star!!! I can't count how many people have pulled him aside to have their pictures taken with him.

Finally, back to the hotel...and some rest! BenBen got a bath while Greg visited "Happy Hour". Sam watched a movie and I typed the blog (which was lost)....Ben was overly tired so we put him down for nap at 4:00 p.m. He fought for 20 minutes or so but finally fell asleep. We ordered cheese pizza room service and drank a few Chinese beers (excellent by the way!). Then off to bed.

All in all, a very good day. BenBen only experienced 1 real meltdown.....and it was totally justified!! It was a very long day and he was very tired and couldn't be consoled at one point on the way to the hotel...only lasted about 5 minutes. He's such a stinkin' cutie pie and feeling more and more a part of our family every day. He's getting the routine and definitely seems bonded to us. He cried hysterically when Greg left us yesterday at the Great Wall to use the bathroom. He's definitely attached to us as a "family" and that's a wonderful thing!!!

Also, on the way back to our hotel, Shirley took the microphone and asked us (and the 2 other couples) if we knew about "Destiny"? In Buddhism, destiny is a huge foundation of their beliefs. She stated there are millions of orphans all over the world but these children were brought into our lives by destiny. She stated we must have prayed 500+ years each to be brought together as a family. Greg has some catching up to do!! She said she's always moved by the families and their children because she witnesses first hand destiny at work. I have always been a firm believer that things happen for a reason -- call it destiny. I was definitely moved by her statement. There is no question BenBen was destined for our family. He fits in perfectly -- and couldn't be more of a Schultz if we'd created him ourselves!!! We love him so much and are learning more about him every day. His communication is improving daily and that is helping all of us. He wants so badly to communicate with us and is always so proud when we understand something he says. He is a very happy boy and captures the heart of everyone who meets him. Can't wait for him to meet everyone back home!!! 

Off to tour! Only 2 more days until Guangzhou!!!!

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Day 6: Tours, new friends, new day!

Happy to report it was a wonderful day!!! We started the day early again (4 a.m.) but jet lag is definitely fading off. We also had a few "plans" to ward off potential communication issues with Ben....

First, Greg and Sam would go to breakfast early and plate Benjamin's breakfast....cut everything into bite size pieces, get his drink, etc. Ben and I arrived 10 minutes later and good to go! His favorite breakfast item - chicken sausage. The kid LOVES it. Not a big fruit guy - other than bananas which we think are giving him constipation. :( 

Shirley was picking us up at 12:40 p.m. so we had a few hours to hang out. We skyped with the kids...miss them soooo much but so thankful for skype and for Grammy (Greg's mom) for taking such great care of them. Then, Greg took Ben for a walk in the stroller while Sam "journaled" in the lobby and I skyped my parents. We needed to eat lunch prior to our tours but none of us were hungry. So we packed granola bars for Greg and I and purchased KFC chicken nuggets for the boys.

Finally, we were so happy to see the van pull up with 2 other American families!!! YAY!!

One of the families has 2 boys around Sam's age. AWESOME!!!! They spent most of the day together and it was so great to see Sam opening up and really having fun. They are adopting a 16 month old girl and leaving Beijing for their province on Sunday. They live in Oklahoma. The other couple is from Massachusetts and this will be their first child, a 21 month old boy. They will also leave on Sunday. Shirley was our guide and we headed first to Tian'anmen Square. It was VERY hot today and sunny....thank goodness BenBen LOVES the stroller!! It was around his naptime so he slept most of the tour. I was expecting to see more Americans/Europeans touring but mostly Chinese....all very interested in taking our pictures!!

Tian'anmen Square is next to the Forbidden City where we journeyed next. It's beautiful, very large and extremely interesting. I could have spent a lot more time there....if the weather was cooler and without kiddos. The guards who work at the Forbidden City live there now. It even has air conditioning and basketball goals! Shirley talked mostly of the placement and order of the temples -- everything is symbolic in Chinese. Ben awoke about 1/2 through the tour and wanted to eat ("Mama eat" - along with the sign for eat!!). I handed him a KFC chicken nugget, and then another, and another, and another....until he'd eaten his 6 pack and 4 of Sam's (shhh....Sam was NOT going to be happy...but whatever it takes to make BenBen happy - and the kid has a huge appetite :). 

We left the Forbidden City and headed to a touristy "Tea House" for a Chinese tea demonstration on the various types of tea, what ailments they cure and how they're made. It was a beautiful tea house tucked away in a sidestreet and full of tourists. Our group had our own room -- all sitting around a long rectangular table on little round stools. Ben was awesome!!!! I sat him next to Shirley....just in case!!! (for translation assistance). We tried 4 different teas and it was very interesting and tasty!!! much different than American tea (or even China tea purchased in America) -- but also pricey. After the demo we were escorted to their "grocery" to purchase the tea, tea pots, etc. We didn't purchase anything -- it was extremely expensive (our green tea in the Keurig is fine for now!).

BenBen is a serious ladies man!!!! There must have been 20 girls working in the tea house and each one of them ohh'd and ahh'd over him...trying to touch him, hold him, speak to him. They kept telling us how handsome he was.....and lucky. :) He charmed them with waves and blowing kisses but he wanted no part of being held by them. He definitely enjoys working the crowd.

We then headed to the Olympic Park....a massive area and very beautiful. Loaded with very persistent and annoying vendors attempting to sell you things. The Water Cube is now an indoor water park and would be a fun place to visit....we weren't able to see inside the Bird's Nest or Water Cube though.

Last stop was an Acrobatic Show. We weren't sure BenBen was up for it but he did great! He ate the last 2 chicken nuggets, a sucker, some Gerber gummies and puffs....and loved watching all the acts. The lights were completely dark at various points and the noise sometimes very loud...he did great. He ooohhhhh'd and ahhhhhhh'd and even a "Wow, Mama!" So cute! He was getting restless though and a 1 hour show was perfect.

The other couples were starting to show their jetlag (having just arrived in Beijing the day before) and we were extremely tired too. We all decided to skip dinner out and head back to our hotels. We gave Ben a quick bath and off to bed he went. Greg and I ordered room service and grabbed a quick drink from the "Happy Hour" on our floor. Sam had a PB sandwich and still hasn't asked about the chicken nuggets! :) 

We're headed off to bed for a long day of touring tomorrow. We're leaving at 8:00 a.m. for the Great Wall. It's about an hour drive. On the way, we'll stop at a Jade factory/store for an hour tour. We'll spend about 60-90 minutes at the Great Wall and then drive to the Summer Palace. The other couples are leaving on Sunday and will need time to pack etc. so that will be all for tomorrow. We are looking so forward to seeing them again in Guangzhou with their new children!!! We'll have about 5 nights with them in the same hotel (The White Swan) and can't wait!!! They are such nice people and such a blessing for us on this trip.

The American families (and Shirley) were so amazed with how well Benjamin has attached to our family....and how behaved he was. It was really a great day and I'm so happy we all got to participate in the tours. Benjamin is starting to communicate more and more each day. I taught him several new signs yesterday (please, thank you) and he now says "up" and "down" - and signs "please" when he wants to be held or put down (vs. whining/crying!!). YAY!!! We still have a looonnng way to go but our little guy is such a trooper and a sweetheart. He's trying so hard. He's so smart and determined - he amazes us every day. He seems to truly enjoys being with us....but most importantly, he seems to enjoy the ability to communicate with us as much as we do!!!! We'll get there! For now, we're just enjoying every minute and soaking in the experience.

Day 5: Free Day

Ben slept nearly 16 hours last night! We think his mind is on overdrive with so much stimulation. He's a great sleeper....never wakes up!! He's always happy and smiling when he awakens each morning. Moves around a ton - always a leg or arm in my face!! Fortunately, I'm so tired it doesn't phase me!


Greg and Sam gave him a bath (which he loves) and then we went for breakfast. We experienced our first "communication challenge" of the day when Ben pointed to what he wanted on the buffet but I didn't immediately hand it to him. I had to take him to our table while Greg plated his food and that was not good. Ben and I headed back to the room while Sam and Greg ate. Ben finally calmed down after about 10 minutes and we headed back to breakfast.


We then decided to take a walk (loving the stroller!) down the main Wangfujing street, through a Hutong and over to Tiananmen Square. Benjamin did great in the stroller and really seemed to enjoy the walk. We were approached by 2 young girls who spoke very good English. We were walking along and talking about Benjamin, the United States, etc. -- then they told us they were artists and wanted us to come and see their paintings. Hmmmm.....we did not. Apparently this is a very common "scheme" on US tourists.


Greg's stepmom's niece, Angelina, then visited around 10 a.m. The first family member to meet Ben. She is studying in Beijing this semester and is such an interesting and sweet girl. She will be graduating from college soon and heading to graduate school in the U.S. She grew up in Thailand. She has also lived in the US and completed her high school in Switzerland. Her parents are now living in Cambodia and she'll be spending the summer there. She traveled nearly 2 hours to visit us at the hotel! (Beijing is a BIG city!). We really enjoyed our time with her. Once again, Benjamin wanted nothing to do with her Mandarin. He played by himself or with Sam during our visit and seemed very happy and comfortable but very uneasy when she spoke Mandarin to him.


After our visit with Angelina, we walked to a high-end, multi-story mall near our hotel for lunch in a food court. Again, another "communication challenge". Benjamin wanted to ride the escalator and did not understand why we couldn't (he was in the stroller). I think everyone in the mall knew Ben wanted to ride the escalator...this kid has a set of lungs!! So, change of plans....we grabbed lunch and headed back to our room. Greg said it was the best KFC sandwich he's ever eaten! Sam and I had Subway and Greg/Ben had KFC.


Shortly after lunch, housekeeping came knocking. We headed down the street again to Hagen Daaz....likely Benjamin's first ice cream. He doesn't like cold drinks so we were apprehensive. We ordered him chocolate and he seemed to like it a little....until the next "communication challenge". He wanted a pen that Greg had. We gave it to him briefly (to perhaps avoid a meltdown) but it nearly poked him in the eye. Again, we had to leave with him, but he was getting sleepy anyway.


He took a 2 hour nap at the hotel while Greg and Sam went swimming. Tomorrow is a big day of touring and we're very excited but also very apprehensive. We don't meet our guide, Shirley, until 12:30 p.m. (right before nap time) and it will be a very long day. The plans include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, tea and an acrobatic show in the evening. Fortunately, we'll have Shirley with us to assist with any communication issues and we're only a taxi ride away from the hotel. We are excited to finally see some sights and spend time with some fellow adopting Americans!!!


After Ben's nap, we went to the Wangfujing night market....one of the most popular tourist attractions in Beijing! It was very interesting, to say the least! Picture the "Fall Festival" minus the rides and all Chinese "delicacies". Amazing what the Chinese enjoy eating! Lots of other tourists...and even corn on the cob! Greg and Ben split some noodles, shrimp on a stick and dumplings. Sam opted for peanut butter back at the room and I skipped dinner. Too much ice cream at lunch! (mine and Ben's!).


I'll be honest, it's very hard right now....for all of us. We're all missing home, Ellie/Jack and the inability to console or communicate effectively with Ben is proving most difficult. We're suffering from jet lag (still!) and Benjamin is grieving and confused and living with aliens who can't communicate with him. He cries most of the time (like a constant whine). It will get better...this we know.

But, in the meantime, it's exhausting and nerve-wracking. He's such a doll and a charmer and a little stinker too! He's sooooo smart and sweet and we absolutely adore him and feel horribly we can't make things better. We're all working so hard and that's all we can do. Angelina seemed very impressed with how much he could communicate with us already, but obviously it's still not enough. We're making headway every day and for that, we're very thankful.


A change of scenery will be good for all of us...and some semblance of a routine. We are off to bed now - around 8:00 p.m. Beijing time. Hoping for a good night's sleep for us all and a better day tomorrow.
  

Stroller!!!

Yay!!!

Day 4: Civil Affairs Office, Notary, Passport Reg.

Today was our last day of appointments in Beijing!! We met our guide, Shirley, (LOVE HER!) at 8:30 a.m. and headed to the Civil Affairs Office to pick up our adoption certificate.

We then went to have all of our documents notarized. Unexpectedly, the notary indicated the documents wouldn't be ready for a few hours....so, we decided to go shopping and eat lunch.

Pizza Hut....wouldn't have been our first choice but it was convenient and time was a factor. Shirley said Pizza Hut is the most popular pizza in China and it was excellent!!! Sam had a personal pan pepperoni and Ben, Greg and I split a cheese pizza. Shirley ordered spaghetti with meatballs and shared with Ben too. He loved it all! He also ate from a high chair and I was very excited about that!!!

Benjamin eats just the right amount of food....he doesn't overeat like a lot of children from orphanages. He definitely knows when he's finished and knows what he likes. He uses a fork very well and likes to do things for himself....but again, not fond of messes or dirty hands. I'll be packin' lots of hand wipes and sanitizer.

From there Shirley took us to a French grocery/super Wal Mart type chain called Carrefour. It was very busy and smelled awful!! Shirley said it was the exotic durian fruit (aka "stinky fruit"). It's called the "King of Fruits" in Southeast Asia, but Westerners usually don't care much for its mild oniony flavor. Once cut open, the durian gives off such a strong and foul odor that it's banned on Singaporean subways. Look for it in an Asian market near you!

Benjamin sat in his first grocery cart and did great! He loved being pushed around the store and taking in all the sounds, smells and sites. We pushed him up a ramp (in the cart) to the 2nd floor to look for a stroller to purchase. We were hoping Shirley may be able to help talk him into trying it. The strollers were more expensive than we'd hoped but we settled on a nice black/pink one with a sun shade (the least expensive option). Luckily, Ben looks good in pink! :) We'll be able to bring the stroller with us to Guangzhou too. We also purchased Benjamin some mini pancake type snacks that our guide thought he'd enjoy, a toddler spoon/spork set and XL Pampers! Benjamin is "potty training" according to the orphanage. He lets us know when he goes poop (does NOT like messy diapers) and even pee'd for Greg on the potty this morning! :)

We returned to the notary to pick up our documents then headed to the Passport Registration office. We met the orphanage director there (from Gotcha Day) and then applied for his passport. She took Benjamin and I to a passport photo booth for his photo. She placed Benjamin on a chair in a standing position and was speaking to him in Mandarin. I stepped behind him - out of the booth - so the picture could be taken. Benjamin started screaming and crying "Maaamaaaa". I had to enter the photo booth and sit on the floor in front of him and hold his hand for the photo. He was so scared I was leaving. Later, Shirley told me the orphanage director was amazed how quickly Benjamin had bonded with us and this made her very happy. 

Shirley then dropped us off at the hotel. Benjamin and Sam are napping and Greg and I are on the computers. Sam is still struggling a bit. I think he's missing home and not that interested in what we're doing. Hopefully the tours this weekend will be more interesting for him. We'll be touring with 3 other families (I believe) from our agency...and one of the families has 2 boys around Sam's age. That will help a lot!

Tomorrow is another free day. Greg's stepmom's niece is studying in Beijing and we plan to meet her here at the hotel at 10 a.m., but otherwise no plans. Friday we will meet Shirley around 12:30 p.m. for a full day of touring (with the other families) and an acrobatic show in the evening. The other families will be touring before heading to their provinces to meet their children. We aren't sure how Benjamin will do on the long day of touring, but we're going to give it a try. He's definitely a kid that needs his naps...and luckily, he's a great sleeper!! Perhaps he'll sleep in the stroller...

Ok, so that's what happened so far today......but how are things going? Honestly, I would say great!! This kid is amazing. He is so smart and funny and playful and happy (95% of the time). Everyone comments how happy he seems. He charms everyone he meets....like a little rockstar everywhere he goes!

He has attached to us remarkably well. Shirley feels he is very apprehensive around Mandarin people because he associates the orphanage and his prior life with the language. He rarely, if ever, speaks Mandarin to us. When spoken to in Mandarin he leans his head down, shrugs his shoulders and won't look at the person.  

We witnessed numerous times today how language is causing most, if not all, of his crying episodes. For example, he wanted to get off my lap in the van (no seatbelts so I have to hold him tightly). He started to arch his back and cry....Shirley spoke to him in Mandarin and explained that he needed to stay in my lap and why. He then sat back and was fine. He will listen to her and responds appropriately...the problem is, we can't explain to him. It will come with time and he's doing better every day.

I LOVE sleeping with him!!! He hangs his chubby little leg over my side and snuggles under my neck. He moves around a lot but always ends up near us. He woke up with a huge smile on his face this morning. It was soooo sweet. He seems to feel very secure and comfortable with us. I can't wait to have him home with Ellie and Jack. It's going to be so fun to watch him grow and flourish in a family....a big family -- including lots of friends.

He is truly a joy to be around. Watching his little mind and wondering what he must be thinking! My favorite is when he is sitting on my lap and turns his head to look at me, smiles and then puckers up for a big kiss!!! Seriously!!! How cute is he?! He's going to give Jack a run for his money in the "he works it" department!!!!

After spending the day with us, Shirley noted that Benjamin may have been "spoiled" at the orphanage...ya don't say?!!! She commented, "in China, we would say, he's showing his tails"....but, she also said she'd love to take him home with her! She has 2 boys, ages 4 and 2 and is absolutely smitten with Ben. She stated his ear lobes are shaped like dumplings which indicates he is very determined. Yep, this we know...and love!!!

Day 3: Bai Hai Park & Hutongs

Ben woke up at 4:30 a.m. this morning crying for "Mama". He could not be consoled and cried for 5-10 minutes. Finally I offered a sip of water and he was fine...right back to sleep. When he awoke again around 7:30 a.m. he was in the bedroom alone (well, Sam was asleep on the inflatable bed) and calmly said, "Mama". We peeked in and he was sitting in the middle of the bed waiting for me. He tugged at my arm and cried a little. I couldn't figure out what he wanted....he pulled me to the front door where our shoes are lined up. He wanted his shoes on! In China, the children are rarely ever without shoes on. He would sleep and bathe in them if we let him.  


We then headed downstairs for breakfast. We tried the main restaurant today (vs. the smaller restaurant on our floor). I think he was overwhelmed. It was very busy and loud....not a good start for the day. He didn't want to sit still. He ate a little...mostly sweets and sausage and bananas....the only food he'll eat and started to become very fidgety and unsettled. I took him upstairs while Greg and Sam finished.


We decided to try the Bai Hai park today and took a taxi from our hotel. The park was beautiful and very crowded....lots of music, exercising and shops. Benjamin spent most of the time testing us and crying - often screaming. He didn't want to be held and didn't want to walk. Then he'd walk for a bit and want to be held for a bit...up and down....up and down. Then he wanted my sunglasses. We decided to buy him a pair and he looked adorable...until he started throwing them on the ground. We'd pick them up and take them away...which threw him into orbit. Normal 2 1/2 year old behavior stuff but more consistent with more screeching outbreaks. Honestly, it was expected at some point...but very tough on all of us. He is very heavy to carry and doesn't like the stroller or Ergo carrier. He walks slowly but doesn't have the steadiest walk and the traffic, people, etc. makes it difficult for him.


We then took a tour of the Hutong...that was nice because he was in a rickshaw with me and the motion and breeze nearly put him to sleep! A very interesting excursion (see Greg's pics!) and I wish we had more time to explore the area. It's fascinating how different life, even within Beijing, can be. Ben LOVES dogs...I mean really, really LOVES dogs. He saw one in the Hutong and nearly lept out of the rickshaw! "Gow Gow" he says. Can't wait for him to meet Chez...thankfully Jack has put Chezzy through the ringers so Benjamin should be a breeze!


We then took a taxi back to the hotel. Greg and Sam went across the street for Subway takeout and I stayed behind with Ben. I gave him a bath to calm him down but he was beyond tired. He was inconsolable over the most minor of things...things that he would have handled fine yesterday or two days ago. I finally laid him down for nap - screaming - and left the room. Within a few minutes he was fast asleep.


Benjamin's behavior is VERY typical....I believe....and expected. EVERYTHING in his world has changed.....I can't imagine putting Sam, Ellie or Jack through what Ben is experiencing. But, it's difficult and extremely painful/frustrating to watch....and very mentally and physically tiresome. We know it will be better. We believe he understands a good deal of what we say and he's learning more English every day. But there's still a huge gap. He certainly doesn't understand who we are or why we aren't taking him "home". He's in that in between stage....too old to not understand and too young to understand. Who can blame the guy?! It's so heart-breaking. I wish I could communicate to him better. When someone speaks to him in Mandarin he backs away. It's almost as though it scares him. Poor guy!

He is sooooo sweet and makes us laugh (when he's not crying!). He has such a fun and playful personality and we can't wait for everyone at home to meet him. He is becoming more affectionate and opening up to Greg more too. We played "pass the Cheerio" in the taxi on the ride back to the hotel (with our mouths) and he was cracking up. He gets funny play and has this look about him that Sam calls "his rotten face". It's very funny...he tilts his head and nearly closes his eyes and smiles. He knows he's cute and I believe he knows we adore him.


It's very difficult not knowing his daily routine, eating habits, likes/dislikes, etc. The orphanage told us virtually nothing...and what they did say, was not communicated by his caregivers so we aren't sure how accurate, if at all, the information is. As much as someone can prepare for this journey, it's impossible to be prepared. Every situation is different but there is a common thread....I've followed enough blogs to know there is a light. This too shall pass. Benjamin is the cutest, sweetest little guy and we love him so much. It's frustrating not knowing how to make him understand what is happening or knowing when to set limits and boundaries for his behavior.  


So, with all that said, it's the middle of the day and Ben has been sleeping for almost 2 hours! YAY! Hopefully he'll take a loooonnng nap and we'll order in room service or pizza. I think we need to be sensitive to overstimulating him and running him (and us) down with excursions. Tomorrow will be a hectic day of appointments so we'll take it easy tonight.

Benjamin awoke after a 4 hour nap!! Greg went down the street to find a sippy cup and a stroller and was accosted by 3 women and a man - at different times. One of the women wanted Greg to teach her English and buy him a drink. The others were trying to sell him "services"....hmmm....LOL!!! 

We ordered room service and we're headed to bed early. Good for all of us!! Hoping tomorrow is a little better day. Miss everyone at home terribly...especially Ellie and Jack!

Day 2: Hospital, Civil Affairs

Today we met our guide at 8:00 a.m. for two appointments. First, the hospital to check Benjamin's TB test. All clear! It's unclear if we'll need a TB test again in Guangzhou (our guide doesn't think so!). Benjamin wanted NO part of the lady who gave him the test a few days earlier. Smart boy!


Then we were off to finalize the adoption at the Beijing Civil Affairs Office. A routine formality, sitting in front of a young girl who asked us a few questions..."will we promise to take good care of him?" "why did we choose to adopt from China?"...which I think most Chinese enjoy hearing about. Our guide said Chinese are very proud that "Westerners" adopt from their country..."our children are very cute and smart". This we know!!! 

We then signed a few papers, fingerprinted next to our signatures and then it was BenBen's turn for his handprint...NOT a big fan. Benjamin does NOT like getting his hands dirty and this was very upsetting to him. Luckily, Mama comes equips with handwipes and jelly bellies. Good to go!


We left the office as his legal guardians and parents. We will return in 48 hours (Wed. a.m.) for his adoption certificate, have it notarized, and then submit his application for a passport.

The Director from the orphanage was present at the Civil Affairs Office and we anticipated Benjamin may have a reaction...but nothing. Also, he saw another little boy, age 3, from his orphanage who was in the Gotcha Day room with us (towards the end) meeting his Mama from the Netherlands. The little boy recognized Benjamin and we think Benjamin recognized him...but again, no interest.

Our guide commented how secure Benjamin seems with us...like we've been a family forever. Awww.....


We drove around Beijing a lot to our appointments and it's such an interesting place! Very much like NYC, only Chinese!! Our hotel is in a very high-end, touristy, international area so we don't stand out much...but, the Chinese are VERY interested in us. "How did we adopt such a strong, handsome boy?"....They seem genuinely happy for Ben and are smitten with his charm....just like us!

We are looking forward to our tours (the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square) this weekend when we'll meet up with 3 other families from our agency when they arrive in Beijing, prior to meeting their children. 

Tomorrow is a free day so we're going to a beautiful park (Bei Hai) and a tour of Beijing's "yesterday", a trip to the Hutongs (old alleyways or siheyuan, the traditional courtyard residences). We may explore the narrow and curved alleys on foot, by pedicab "rickshaw" or by bike. Should be interesting. Our guide indicated the people who live there are very proud and it's a very expensive way of life.  
After the appointments our guide dropped us off at the hotel. We journeyed across the street to a "noodle" restaurant that the concierge recommended. It was DELICIOUS!!! We were seated in the "NBA" room....see pics - hilarious! We ordered Kung Pao Shrimp (for Ben), fried rice (me), noodle soup with spareribs (Sam) and fried beef with vegetables (Greg). Yummy!!! Benjamin loved the shrimp and noodles. He was determined to use the chopsticks (with the noodles) and it was a mess! He was slurping them off his plate and cracking us up! Although, all the Chinese in the room were slurping their noodles...Sam was in heaven! (always a noisy eater).

And here's where things go a bit wrong....Greg also ordered a Chinese beer - it was huge. I knew we were in trouble when he started speaking American in his Chinese accent. Not letting him order that again! 

Then, the waiter graciously informed us that it was the restaurant's 60th anniversary and they had a "special gift" for us upstairs. Hmmmm.....well, we followed him into a room covered in Chinese artwork for sale. Two ladies were also in the room and they offered to write Sam's name in Chinese. We were very pleased and they liked Benjamin very much. They informed us (by looking at the top of his head in the back) that he was a level 4 in strength. Sam and Greg sadly, only a level 1. Interesting....

Then the sales pitch, I was outside "marching" the halls with Benjamin (he loves to march Grandpa Perkins!) and Greg was pressured into purchasing a custom "silk scroll" of our family for only $23!!!

Hmmm....Greg just told me to tell y'all he "took it in the rear". Our lunch was actually cheaper. TOTAL ripoff....again, no more Chinese beer for Greg!!! :) I can't leave him alone for 2 seconds!  

Ben seems to be doing extremely well and appears to be more comfortable with us than yesterday. For example, he likes to walk (sometimes) without me holding his hand. This is actually very dangerous in the streets of Beijing! People, cars and bikes everywhere (on the sidewalks!). He is testing us some, which is a good thing. I think he's grieving a little at times, wondering what is happening. Is this for real? When are these people taking me back to my home? Hard to tell with the language barrier....all we can do is love him unconditionally and make him feel secure. He's open to our affection and reciprocates, which melts my heart. Impossible to imagine what his little mind is thinking. 

We enjoyed playing with him so much on the bed today...he LOVES looking at the photo book of our family, home and Ellie & Jack. He says their names very well and can identify each of them in the photos. Ben likes to "fake sleep"...and then we tickle him. It's sooo cute. At one point, Sam and I were laughing so hard at his expressions and I asked Sam, "is he sleeping or peeking?" because it's impossible to tell with the slant of his eyes! Benjamin laughed too!! He's such a trickster!!! Sam would hide under the blankets and tickle his feet....Ben LOVES it.

He also LOVES dogs!! We saw several on our walk tonight and went crazy. Good thing for Chezzy!!!  

We decided a stroller would be a good thing after carrying him around for 2 days. After our nap at the hotel (after lunch) we headed to Wangfujing street for a stroller. We found a very expensive department store with a variety of strollers but Benjamin wanted NO part of it. We also tried the Ergo backpack (at the htoel), again NOT a fan. We may try the stroller shopping again when he's not so tired and they're cheaper! We also visited a toy store....he loved watching the little dogs do "flips" on the floor and would laugh and say "OH" each time they flipped. Everyone is so enamoured with him. He's so stinkin' cute!!! 

Benjamin is also a headstrong little guy and knows what he wants "obstinate sometimes" as reported by the orphanage would be correct! We think language plays a huge part though. He doesn't like toothepaste so we're picking our battles for now (brushing with just water).

He's also very low maintenance. He really goes with the flow except when he's overly tired. A drink of water is usually all it takes for him to calm down. We're trying to call him Ben more and he responds sometimes. He always responds to Xigang.

He also LOVES sweets!!! I carried him around the lavish breakfast buffet this morning and he only wanted the chocolate donut (pointed excitedly and said, "ohhhhhhh") and sausage....and of course, a banana. Kids under 3 eat free at the buffet. One of the servers asked Benjamin in mandarin his age, he replied 2. I think she was surprised...and perhaps thought we were trying to sneak a free breakfast! LOL!

Everyone comments on Benjamin's skin. It's beautiful and lighter than most Chinese ("more Caucasian").

Sam is doing great with Benjamin but having a rough time in general. He misses home a lot and his friends. He is still adjusting from jetlag. Hoping tomorrow is better for him.


Benjamin will tap me on the leg and say, "Mama" and point to what he wants...or sign. He understands and uses the signs for drink, eat, more and finished. He's a very quick learner! When he's upset (i.e. when we take off his shoes, or tried him in the backpack carrier) he cries deeply for "Mama"...at first, I thought he was calling for his caregivers...but I'm really not sure. He seems easily soothed and likes us, I think!


We are amazed how well he does sleeping!!!! He went to bed at 10:30 p.m. last night after being up for an hour to skype -- and going down to nap at 4 p.m. He slept until 7:30 a.m. this morning and not a peep out of him. He moves around a lot (according to Greg) but I felt nothing....the beds, pillows and down comforters are super comfy and the hotel is very quiet. He also soothes himself to asleep...usually by sucking his thumb. 

Tonight we gave him a bath (which he loves!) and then looked at books in the bed. We turned off the light and he turned over and went to sleep.

Now it's my turn...we're all exhausted. Thanks for the comments and encouragement!!! We love hearing from you all. Being away from Ellie and Jack is the most difficult part. We have a long time to go but we're enjoying every second with our sweet lil man and sweet Sammo.

Benjamin at Happy Hour!!

Fond of sweets....definitely a Schultz!

Gotcha Day details!

Our lil man is fast asleep in the middle of our king sized bed. No tears. An absolute angel. I can't wait to climb in next to him!! We are all exhausted and going on adrenaline. Hoping for a good first night's rest. 

Gotcha Day: Benjamin understood what was happening at the orphanage and was terrified. He cried and his little heart was beating so fast. He tried running out of the room once and I finally had to pick him up! 

At his orphanage, caregivers are not allowed in the meeting room. As we were leaving the orphanage I was holding him.  Ben had calmed down and suddenly looked up to an upstairs balcony...where hiding behind a few large pillars were about 4-5 of his caregivers secretly watching his goodbye. I lost it and really began to cry. It was soooo sweet. Benjamin waved, blew them kisses and then gave them a big thumb's up. Seriously, does it get any better than that? I will NEVER forget that moment. It melted my heart.

We believe Benjamin was very well cared for and loved. He knows affection, kisses and obviously felt very well loved by the caregivers. He grieved some...and is still very uncertain about what is happening...but he's going with it!

We're sure there will be more grieving, and there should be. It's the only life he's ever know. We took a lot of photos and video for him to remember. But honestly, this day could not have gone any smoother. Every second with him is pure joy. He smiles and rubs his nose on mine and loves to give wet kisses. He is such a miracle....and a handsome one at that!!! 

With every ounce of my being I knew he was a Schultz the first time I saw him....and he couldn't be more perfect for our family. He's bigger in person than I thought and very solid and strong. He doesn't like messes or things out of order (just like his Mama!).

I'm always hesitant when I read comments like these on blogs....seriously, no child bonds or attaches that quickly. But honestly, he did. He may not tomorrow or in 2 weeks or 3 months...but today, he was trustful and perfect in every way. Charming, playful, funny, affectionate, loving. We are so in awe and in love with our little man. He continues to amaze us every second we're with him! 

We left the orphanage and our guide asked Xigang if he was hungry. He responded, "yes, very much". We grabbed a banana from the lounge and headed to our room to order room service. The guide suggested fried rice (with shrimp - his favorite). This kid can eat!!! He at the entire banana in 3 bites and loved the fried rice. We're teaching him sign language and English and he's caught on very quickly.

We also think he's a genius!!! He mimics us, laughs at our corniness and plays along with all our games. He loosened up a LOT after bath when we were playing on the bed. Every time the cell phone toy would ring, he would belly laugh and answer, "Ni hao, Xigang" and then make a funny "uh-oh" face. We did this for an hour!! It was hysterical. We were all laughing so hard and enjoying this wonderfully precious child. 

We then met our guide, Shirley, to take us to the bank and exchange our US $ for the orphanage payment. We then proceeded to get our photo taken for tomorrow Civil Affairs appointment (where Benjamin officially becomes ours!!!). Benjamin was reaching out to hold my hand and would wait for me as we walked.

Benjamin also adores Sam and vice verse. They are going to be best buds....if Sam ever wakes up from the jet lag!

We walked to our appointments and it's HOT...and he's VERY heavy!! Our guide said, "Wow, he's thick"...LOL! He does great taking it all in...just becomes very quiet. He's still guarded with us...and sometimes a little unsure but his attachment to us is where I'd hoped he be by the end of our trip! - not day 1. We are so relieved.

We came back to the hotel because Sam is having difficulty with jet lag. He went to nap at 4 p.m. and it's 12:30 a.m. and he hasn't woken up. We're meeting our guide tomorrow morning at 8 a.m. so I'm thinking he'll sleep thru the night. Benjamin and I played for a little bit and we both fell asleep - and then Greg slept on the inflatable mattress. Finally, around 10:30 p.m. I woke up to skype the kiddos and our families.

We woke up Benjamin and he did great!!! The kids only saw him asleep but he was awake for our parents. LOVE skype!!!

Benjamin is amazing...honestly. His spirit and spunk and sweet personality are so charming. He's such a joy and a blessing. We could not have wished for a more perfect child. We love him so much and we think he kinda likes us too. 

By the way, we LOVE Beijing!!!! It's so fun, alive and upbeat. Our hotel is in a wonderful area and we look forward to getting a stroller and wandering the Wangfujing area near our hotel. The people have been very nice...driving is a little crazy but it's all so interesting.

Gotta run, I'm extremely tired and up early for a busy day. Please remember to view our photos on the upper right link - China Pictures!. I believe Greg posted about 80 pictures from today!! You'll definitely get the feel for how things went!

Thanks for all your comments! We love reading each and every one and they're so comforting when we're so far from home!!
 

Gotcha Day Photos!

Lots of Gotcha Day photos posted!  Click here: What an AMAZING day!  Blog coming soon.  Need to get some sleep!

Greg