Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Monday Meltdown

Monday was great. We relaxed and got everything packed to head off to Guangzhou. Olivia did great. She took the bus ride to the airport and sat on the airplane just fine. It was just a 1 1/2 hour flight but we landed in Guangzhou at 9:00 pm. It was hot, humid and everyone was tired. They packed us on to a bus and thats when she lost it. It was almost a one hour ride to the hotel and she was miserable. Can't blame her, It was way to late to be travelling with babies. We finally got to the hotel at 10:00 pm, exhausted. The hotel is soooo fancy. More like honeymoon suites, not family oriented. We couldn't get a bed for Kyle so Jenny put a chair and footstool together and actually is more comfortable than the rock hard beds that we are sleeping on. Olivia was up whining and crying on and off all night. We hardly had any sleep. We didn't even take time to unpack. The morning we were all ornery, except Olivia. She was all smiles and laughs. WE went to a crowded breakfast and at 9:30 met in the lobby to go to the medical appts. This experience was just like I had read. Pretty much choas. There were three stations to stop at. They declared her healthy except for the chest cold and cough and we were able to get more anitbiotics and medicine which made it all worthwhile. The whole experience was rush-rush and just crazy.
Then we were able to walk around Shaiman Island (where the White Swan hotel is). This was beautiful and we all were able to unwind and relax. We shopped a little before heading back to the hotel. By now we were all in better moods. We went to McDonalds for lunch which is right by our hotel. Steve, Olivia and I laid down for a nap while Kyle and Jenny went to the huge swimming pool. At 4:30 I went over all the paperwork and got all of that behind us. All the fees are paid now and we wait for the babies visas. At night (this is Tuesday) we went with another family to a seafood restaurant. It was really good and Olivia chowed down on rice, chicken and watermelon and was in a great mood. The funniest part was crossing the street. Just like we were warned you have to say a prayer before running across the traffic. We all made it though. It was quite an experience.
Today (Wednesday) is a free day. We slept late and went back to Shaiman Island for shopping. But, it was so hot and muggy and Olivia was not happy so Steve and Kyle took her back to the hotel and Jenny and I shopped with Marilyn and another mother-without babies. We bought a few things, Jenny found a really nice silk dress. The kids are swimming inthe pool now and we are going to order delivery pizza tonight and relax.
We are really excited about almost heading home and look forward to it. Tomorrow the visas should be approved and on Friday we have the American Consulate ceremony to make everything official. Friday night we pack and Saturday we head for home!!!

I will try to use Marilyn's computer to post pictures but they have been sick with colds and I don't like to distub them too much.

Can't wait to see everyone. Hope you are all doing well. Take care and we will be home soon!!

The Pitz Family!!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Nothing exciting happenening around here. I look forward to reading your updates. Always exciting! This is like reading a really good book that you don't want to end. However, it will be nice when you're all home. Not long now! God's blessings on the rest of your trip and your long journey home. Take care Pitz family.
Kathy

Anonymous said...

Hi Everyone
We were so glad to finally hear from you again. Dad & I were checking pretty regularly & today was a pleasant surprise. Would love some pictures, but know it must be hard, so now we are just content to count down till you are home on Saturday. Of course, we can hardly wait to see Olivia for the first time, but also look forward to seeing all of you. Seems like a month since you left. All is well here so enjoy your last few days in China & have a safe trip home. Can't wait to have you back. Love to all!!
Mom & Dad

Debbie said...

Isn't it funny how you learn to appreciate simple things, like cross walks and pedestrian right-of-ways, after visiting other countries? :) In Russia we too have to pray while we're running across the streets -- I usually picked a woman to cross with as they were a little less daring than the men!

Have a good few last days and a safe trip home!
Debbie

Anonymous said...

Hi Pitz Clan!
So glad to hear from you guys. Like Mom, I have been checking for updates a lot but realize it isn't that easy to get access to a computer. I love hearing about your adventures - you guys are very brave! Glad to hear that Olivia is doing so well. Sure hope the plane ride back to WI goes well - hopefully she sleeps a lot - you guys too!
We sure look forward to seeing you soon!!
Take care, Love, The Stegers