Tim & Mike in Shanghai!!

We had a FANTASTIC time with Joe's brothers, Tim (18) and Mike (16). They arrived a little before the October holiday, so while Joe and I continued to work, they ventured out on their own to explore the city on their own! We then did things with them in the evening. They are so brave and so adventurous! They did a great job!!

Brothers reunited

Although Wes loves people and has no problems being held by people he's never seen before, for some reason he burst into tears every time Tim or Mike talked to him or held him! It was actually pretty funny. They were persistent, though, and found ways to win his heart: primarily through food!! Wes can't turn down a good bottle--no matter who gives it to him. ;)

They learned how to eat with chopsticks! Although tricky at first, they were soon naturals! (hope that cramp in your hand is gone now, Tim!) We had fun bringing them to all of our favorite restaurants. Here we are eating Xin Jiang food. Yum!!

They also became pros at riding the subway!

Wes gradually warming up to his "shu shu"s (the Chinese word for the younger brothers of his father)

Since it was the 62nd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic, of course we celebrated with fireworks! I'm sorry, but China does fireworks unlike any other country in the world. Nothing else is the same after seeing a moving production of fireworks set to music and a story. It truly is a masterpiece! Hats off to Shanghai for another amazing production at Century Park!

;

Here's the crew hanging out for the fireworks!! :D

Nica is enjoying testing out her Chinese skills on whoever happens to take an interest in Wesley! Great practice!

Riding the metro with the guys!

Here we are at a local Chinese restaurant. Wes is now totally warmed up to his Shu Shu's!! :D

goofing around

outside the restaurant

Since it was October holiday, and ALL of China has a week of vacation, it means that EVERYWHERE you go, there are TONS of people. All part of the fun!! Here are a few shots of us exploring Yu Garden

Another popular Chinese meal: hotpot!
You throw all your meats, veggies, etc into the boiling broths in the center of the table, then dip them in your favorite sauces. Yum! Thanks, RJ & Janelle! :)

Can't come to Shanghai without seeing our beautiful skyline at night!
Here are the guys at the Bund

Enjoying dumplings in the comfort of our home... :D

Introducing the guys to Vietnamese cuisine!! 

This post is just the BEGINNING of the adventures we all had together. It'll take another post to get you up to date with ALL of the other places we went with the guys. More photos coming soon!

Nica