It's just about time to head home. All Chinese adoptions by Americans are handled by the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou, and today we had our appointment with 10 other American families. The consulate was full of Chinese waiting in line for Visas to study, travel, or do business. We were lucky to get into the adoption express lane, which consisted of a fee, some signatures, and an officially administered oath declaring all adoption related documents to be accurate. Then, we were done and headed back to the hotel.
All that is left is to pick up Malia's Visa to travel to the U.S. tomorrow. She will officially become a U.S. citizen when we touch down in San Francisco. Back in Texas, we will likely "re-adopt" so that we can get a U.S. birth certificate in her American name. But that is pretty much just post travel paperwork. After picking up the Visa, we'll head straight to the Guangzhou train station to catch the 4:12 Guangzhou-Hong Kong express.
Marc's always wanted to go to Hong Kong since he was a kid. Upon arrival, we'll head to the Airport Marriott, check in, and then take off with Malia back into town in our to take the Star Ferry across the harbor and tram up to the top of Victoria Peak. At the top of the Peak, we'll have a little celebration and officially begin our trip back to the States. We depart Hong Kong around noon Friday Hong Kong time, and arrive around 6:00 p.m. Friday Austin time.
Sunday through Tuesday was primarily spent sightseeing, bonding with Malia, and waiting for our appointment. Monday included a trip to Southern China's most famous Buddhist temple, as well as a trip to the top of Canton Tower (third tallest structure in the world behind Dubai & Tokyo). Tuesday was a relaxing day at Guangzhou's safari zoo, the highlight of which was of course seeing the Chinese pandas. After the appointment, we had picture day at the White Swan. Our family, all of the adopted kids, and all of the families together.
Over two weeks ago, Dianne & I were about to go to sleep and wake up to start this incredible journey. We had two thoughts....."what the heck are we doing?"............and "I can't wait for Hong Kong". Well, we are even more thrilled with what we are doing now, and tomorrow Hong Kong arrives.
4 comments:
I was waiting to see those Pandas! Fantastic! Another great blog entry.
Aunt Kate
Marc/Dianne,
We couldn't be happier with your decisions. Traveling mercies to you three. Alex has been exceptionally wonderful. Thanks for trusting us with him for 2+ weeks. We've loved every minute and, no doubt, will be lonely next week
Unconditional love and complete pride abound,
Gem'a and G-Dad
Abbey and I have had so much fun reading your blog, and she thinks baby Malia is "soooo cute!" I hope all is going well for your new little family.
~Alicia and Abbey Henderson
Abbey and I are having such fun reading your updates, and Abbey thinks baby Malia is "sooo cute." I hope things are going well for your new little family!
~Alicia & Abbey Henderson
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