During the 15 day waiting period we are finding fun things to do with Quinn at the Babyhouse and keeping occupied around town. Today the weather warmed up enough for us to go on a little driving tour. Tomorrow is November 15th and Dan's birthday as well as Quinn's 9th month birthday. Quinn will be measured and weighed. We think he's really grown. For example, he is starting to get a baby belly. He also seems much longer.

Dan helps Quinn walk or Quinn helps Dan kneel? Quinn took a break from teething the last 2 days and has been a chipper little guy. He crawled around the floor a lot and enjoyed watching some younger girls play.

Quinn looking long as his little belly sticks out.

We took advantage of the blue sky day and toured the Astana-Baiterek Tower. "According to a folk legend, Baiterek is a magic tree found by the hero Yer-Tostik after his long wanderings. In the branches of this world's tree of life once in a year the bird Samruk laid its golden egg. The tower represents a stylishly designed tree with a huge egg-dome. The height of the tower is 97 meters (for it was in 1997 when Astana became the capital of the country)." (taken from Astana website)

Kerry sports a new style of KZ headwear.

Kerry looks up at the nest while Santa (aka Father Frost) walks in the background soliciting photo opportunities. From the lookout Dan counted 134 construction cranes!

We poked around the concert hall/convention center designed by Sir Norman Foster. (Tonight Verdi's Opera, Aida is performing to a sold out audience). At night we see the pyramid's LED lights change color from our apartment. Many well known architects have been integral in the planning of the new Astana.