Shenyang Social Welfare Institute #1

After a terrific Breakfast where MingGe ran around the restaurant like a typical 4 year old, we headed to MingGe's orphanage.  She was so excited.  She packed her backpack with candy to give her friends and presents for her caregivers.

As far as orphanages go, I would give this one an A.  It is very clean and bright and the caregivers are nice and attentive.  I am not sure of the ratio of caregivers to children, but there always seemed to be plenty of adults around.  The children were very happy to see MingGe and also John.  Many of them recognized him from his previous trips.

However, when it was time for lunch, MingGe wanted to eat "out" instead of at the orphanage!

We took the van to what I would call electronics street.  There we purchased 30 DVDs for approximately $45.  This included titles like SlumDog Millionaire, Beverly Hills Chihuahua and 7 Pounds.  Jack also got the Indiana Jones series and all Harry Potter movies.  It was quite an experience and if half of the DVDs work it will still be a deal.  Jack has already watched one and MingGe also watched Toy Story.

After a quick stop at the scroll shop we headed back to the hotel.  MingGe spent some time with Migyeong before being delivered by the driver to us.  She took an hour nap before dinner.

Dinner was an experience.  We decided to go to one of the best jiaozi restaurants in Shenyang but they did not have a picture menu.  We had no idea what we were getting.  Soup first.  It was delicious!  Not too many bones either.   Seafood dumplings were great but MingGe had enough and Mama had to take her out of the restaurant.  

A quick trip to Sephora across the street and one vanity mirror later, she was happy again!  Did I mention that she insisted on wearing a dress and tights to the orphanage today, even though it was very cold?  Or that one of her favorite "presents" so far is the chapstick Dad found in his bag?  I think MingGe and Cousin Ruby are going to get along famously!

D