The Boys Become Roes

Last night, while we Americans were sleeping, Daniel and Matthew officially became Roes at the consulate ceremony. The boys themselves cannot pronounce their names. Matthew says his last name is Loe, and Daniel pronounces it Joe. Oh well, we will take what we can get for now.

The Three Chinese Roe, Joe, Loe Boys!

The boys are doing great. Daniel is a little bit wiser and more mature. Matthew is just crazy and silly. Skypeing with them is a treat.

We held up Chinese flashcards of the most random phrases imaginable and Daniel and Matthew responded to them just for laughs. They are both total hams. One of the cards said: "You're thirsty, get a drink," so they both ran and filled up cups. Another said, "It is dark, time for bed," (it was morning China time) and Matthew responded "Mao" (no). Funniest though was the card that said: "It's snowing" and the boys ran to the window (joking of course). They are good at making us laugh.

This face gives you a little perspective.

And this one

And this one

He's a silly one.

My parents got the opportunity to visit their orphanage

and meet their foster parents

and these guys!

We are so happy to say that the little one to the far left is being adopted! My parents took him a package from his parents. You can read about his adoption here: http://gatheringfromtheeast.blogspot.com

When they went shopping yesterday, Daniel found a crucifix in one of the stores and began asking about it. He made the connection that the prayers my dad says before meals are to the man on the cross (Yesu). Later, when my dad told Daniel that Christmas celebrates that same man's birth, Daniel proudly pulled out a picture of Santa Clause and pointed to it saying: "Yesu?" Surprisingly, when they got back to the hotel, Daniel drew a picture of a Bible and asked Julia if he could have one in Chinese. Interesting, huh? He's definitely heard at least some of this stuff before. He also drew a picture of China, America and the whole world and asked Julia if Jesus loves all of those. Oh, sweet boy! It is so evident that God has had His hand on Daniel!

The whole gang will be home Thursday morning! Please pray for safe travels and a continuing good transition for the boys (and us)!

I sent letters to both the boy and my parents' guide translated them

They looks pleased, don't they? I am glad I took the effort to write them.

Their bed!

Christmas Decorations are up at the Garden Hotel!

Daniel loved this statue!

Dinner!