It is a peaceful afternoon here in Xi'an. Amanda is giving talk at her church, the babies are napping or playing outside, and the other girls have gone for a foot massage. I wanted to rest and blog a bit...the computer has been in high demand as we all get excited about our 're-entry' into normal life. The last few days have allowed us to get to know Amanda, her philosophy and her goals. She is honest and open, and very clear that it is all about the babies. She has no car, has not visited with family since 2001, and has dedicated her life to helping children. It is a very hard job. The rollercoaster emotions that we have felt this week are what she feels every day. Knowing that she cannot help ALL the babies is a difficult weight to carry. Last night we went to a fundraiser with her for the Library Project which is a foundation that provides books and libraries to children in the countryside. It is a very worthwhile project started by a young man from Arizona who has been here 5 years. At the dinner (a BBQ by the way...very surreal to be sitting in China eating at a BBQ dinner!) there were mainly Western people. It is interesting to see how many are here and what they are all doing. Boeing, Siemens, etc...we met the head of many of these companies. Amanda prefers to fundraise via letters, and I want you to know how THRILLED she is with our church contribution to her. The kids loved the clothes, and that will really help her out, but her biggest need is financial. Without the money in hand, she cannot pay for the surgeries. She is a tax deductible foundation. Just keep that in mind :)
The babies were happy to see us this morning and we played for while. We are going back for bathtime tonight which will be fun! We still wonder about the Hohhot children---how are they, what do they think about us being there last week. Do they wait outside for the bus to pull up in the mornings, or are they back to their usual business? I try to focus on the fact that they will at least have a new place to live soon, one with HEAT for the winter (it is very very cold there and there is no heat except for coal in the kitchen). What will they think about warm floors?!!!
To my family, my parents, my in-laws and especially William, THANK YOU ALL for the sacrifices you made so I could come on this trip. I know it was very hard at times for each of you, and I am so thankful you were willing to help. This trip has been a gift---it has given me a chance to see the world, my travel group, myself and my capabilities, and my relationship with God all in a new light. SO, thank you thank you, thank you.... I could not have come without you. Thank you also to my prayer team---we have felt you here!
Please look on Shannon's blog for lots of pictures from today. She has the best camera and we took pics of the babies with some of the gifts and they are posted there. We leave China tomorrow....I hope to come back someday soon.
Love,
Eve
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