Where in the world is Ellie?

Ellie is from Urumqi, Xingjiang Province. It is located in the North Western corner of China, bordering all kinds of cold, barren, scary places. She won't know what hit her the first time she experiences the weather of central Illinois! Ellie's nationality is Han (what we think of as Chinese) But the majority in this province are Uyrgurs--pronounced we-gur-- They have a mixed background from surrounding countries and typically are Islamic. They do not look like "Han" Chinese people, but resemble peoples from Mongolia and other areas near there. This area does not see many foreigners, and has began international adoptions relatively recently. It is going to be one interesting trip, especially with our blonde 10 year old son with us! He should make quite a stir! Click on the map for a better view.