Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Touring in Guangzhou



Eliza's adoption is complete. Our CCAI representative came to our room this morning at 11:00 and said all of her paperwork was accepted and her visa approved. The only major event left is "the oath" at the US consulate. We aren't exactly sure what we are oathing, but we'll do it if it means we can come home on Friday.
Yesterday after the medical exam there was time for a little shopping. We purchased a little traditional outfit for Eliza...so she would look authentic for the group picture. Our group gathered in the lobby for the famous " red couch" photos right around nap time. It was a little crazy. Eliza was a little upset. Meadow tried to calm her down by pulling her hair.



Today we had a slow morning. We waited in our hotel room until confirmation of the visa approval was given. Once we knew everything was okay we took off for more sight seeing. We took a tour to a couple of interesting sights: a formerly private estate about 140 years old called the "Old Chen House", and the Six Banyan Temple. Six Banyan Temple is a very old Budahist monastery. Both sights were quite beautiful. While at the monastery Kyle and I lit nine sticks of incense in thanksgiving: three for each of us to represent our past, present and future.


We had lots of play time today. Eliza is really beginning to respond to us. She is smiling and giggling more. She's eating better than ever. She opened her little bird mouth as I drank my Starbucks drink today! We had to race back to the room to make her a bottle...we didn't expect her to be hungry so soon after breakfast. She had us both laughing as she learned a new trick...sticking our her tongue and blowing bubbles while wiggling her fingers in front of her face. Kyle told her it's funny now, but it won't be if she's still doing it in 12 years.

Yesterday after breakfast housekeeping came to the room and delivered a surprise. Our very own "Going Home Barbie". She is exclusive to families adopting Chinese children and staying at the White Swan Hotel. It is Barbie doll holding an Asian baby. Interestingly, the package says "for ages 14 and over. This is not a toy".












5 comments:

ronie said...

Those cheeks, they scream "pinch me"! Shane will be relieved to know Eliza has a Barbie already - you should hear the list of thing she thinks Eliza needs.

Safe travels

jfickes said...

Congratulations on everything being complete with the adoption! I can't tell you how happy we are for you guys! Again, thank you so much for posting so many pictures and telling us your story!

Eliza is so beautiful, and you guys look so happy! I love seeing you as parents!

Eliza looks like she's making amazing progress on her strength - I love the pics of her where you can totally see it!

You'll be home the day after tomorrow - we can't wait to see you and hope the flight is good!

Love,

Eric & Jenn

Anonymous said...

CONGRATULATIONS on "officially" becoming parents!!
Can Eliza be any cuter?!

Love,
Sara B.

Anonymous said...

Kyle,

Much congratulations on the Barbie doll. I remember how excited you were at the prospect of obtaining one of these. Play careful though, "ages 14 and up" sounds kind of dangerous. See y'all in the next couple of weeks.

-Robbie

PS - Eliza looks beautiful. Cannot wait to meet her.

Aunt Anne said...

She is so beautiful! I can't wait for you all to be home! We love you and continue to be inspired and amazed by the whole process. We will pray for a safe trip home! Love you so much!