"We often think of the intersections in our lives, those that are planned, those that occur by chance. Some encounters we hope for, particularly love, and alas, some meetings never happen despite what we wish. I think of how those intersections have the potential to change us, our character, our circumstances, our hopes. We think about how they add to the unfinished story of our lives"...(Amy Tan, Mei Mei, 2005) Chinese folklore speaks of invisible red threads that connect a newborn child's spirit to all the people who will be important in the child's life. As the child grows, the threads shorten, drawing closer those people who are destined. We anxiously await this special meeting, a life changing intersection which will soon take us to China to bring home our little daughter, Cali Griffin.

April 4, 2011

Jolie-Pitts???

So, today we felt like Hollywood royalty. We went to an art and culture center and saw a guy doing calligraphy with his fingers, but the most exciting part was being mobbed by a group of high school students. It started with a few girls talking to Cali and grew into a crowd of 20 or so 15/16 year olds circling us. We chatted about Chinese language, speaking English, and Michael Jordan. Our conversation lasted for about 20 minutes and was very fun. We've been asked for pictures several times before, but this was like Rockstar status interest in us and in Cali.

We are loving our interactions with the Chinese people we encounter all around; everyone is very friendly and intrigued by our family! I had some pictures taken with a group of women at the zoo who got in close and grabbed my hands. We were also stopped at the park and had a picture taken with each a girl and her boyfriend.

Some other funny encounters: a man asked if Cali was my baby and if I feed her...I think he was referring to breast feeding? Bob was asked if Cali was a Chinese baby and if we were going to make her an American? It seems that people are happy that we all are adopting these babies and are going to give them a nice life in the US.

We are especially enjoying all of our new friends here in Guangzhou. There is a real sense of culture and community. It seems like the rich history of China really creates a sense of oneness and mutual understanding and respect. It is very common to see people walking around arm in arm and hand in hand. We truly admire the passing down of traditions from generation to generation and continue to be impressed with the kindness, joyfulness, and pride of the Chinese people.

1 comment:

  1. The White FamilyApril 5, 2011 at 3:13 PM

    krista
    i am weeping as i see pictures of you and cali...i am overjoyed for you and bob to be parents after so many years of prayer and heartache...to finally be led to this precious girl. she is so lucky to have you all as parents..i love you and look forward to more post. linday lou

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