It's a Blessing and a Kiss

.....and now for something completely different...

we are visiting a 1,500 year old Buddhist monastery for a non denominational blessing for our child. It is raining on the way and our guide jokes that it means we are distinguished guests, and then it really starts pouring an she's says, "very distinguished".

The name of the Pagoda is the Six Banyan Trees.

Usually you can walk to the top but it is under renovation. Our guide did not recommend it, she said that it leans much like the Tower of Pisa.

Outside you can smell the thick incense burning even in the rain. Here you can make a wish and light some incense, the more people who help you wish the better your chances. The catch is that if it comes true then you have to come back and give them "their props".

After hurriedly walking through the courtyard (due to the rain) we went into the main temple. I could not help but notice that the monk (who would later chant) was texting on his blackberry. Buddha must have told him to get to work.

The Buddhas inside represent the Past, Present and Future. The purpose is a blessing for you and your child (the new family) to live a long and happy life together throughout all time. (longevity and peace are common themes throughout China) While very simplistic (aside from close to 6 tons of sculpture) it is a very moving ceremony. You have the rhythmic chanting, the sound of the rain, the wind, the smell of the incense, stillness, and your family next to you. You can think whatever you want. I did not see it as a prayer more an acknowledgment of life. I got a rush of emotions as this was a moment when all else stopped and I got a chance to reflect.

Wren is like, "What do you want from me?"

After that we piled back into the van and did some shopping at the Government market. Incredible hand made crafts. Trinity got some great shots.

This guy paints only with his hands and fingers, all that you see there.

Beautiful. Most of the landscapes are from the city of Guilin in the Guangxi province (province is like a state for us- this is the same province where Wren is from). Unfortunately we were not able to visit there this time.

Then this other guy carves your name into a chop. which is used for your signature. He translates your name into Chinese characters.

He's working on a "Tarver" above. I took him about 10 minutes. Absolutely amazing craftsmanship.

Then we went back to the hotel. On the way I played a little game with Trinity. I kissed her and made a big production of it and then kissed Mommy. Wren watched curiously an then mimicked and gave mommy her first kiss! Then Trinity got one! Then daddy got DENIED! (cue Family Feud buzzer sound effect)

One more thing, I made a deal with my niece Gracie this summer on her birthday. She had a special wish, and I told her that it was a good one. (I invoked the special Uncle exception to sharing your birthday wish Rule 7 article 9 section 10) I offered to share my birthday wish, and wish for the same thing too. So, here is my promise, sweetie. Love you!