Our last days in Guanzhou

To avoid cabin fever again, we decided to go to the high-end mall yesterday. Even with an umbrella and rain jacket, we were all soaking wet from the pouring rain just crossing 2 streets as the mall is diagonally across from our hotel. We were able to dry off Megan's clothes under the hand dryer in the ladies' room but Arlie and I were soaked to the skin. We spent several hours there and then rushed back to change our clothes and leave for the American Consulate to take the oath. This was our last official act as part of the adoption. All the parents and babies kissed and celebrated the essential completion of our journey. We received the additional paperwork we will have to provide when we go through the non-US citizen line. After we get through all of that, Megan will become a US citizen with final paperwork to follow within 45 days after we are home.

Last night we enjoyed a scenic evening cruise on the Pearl River. We tried to get some video. We had not taken much on this trip because we did not want to lug it everywhere. Today we did more shopping and enjoyed dinner alone in the dining room. We decided against going out which was fortunate because thunder, lightning, and heavy rain soon followed.

We are essentially packed. We had difficulty trying to get a vacuum to suck the air out of Grace's packing bag but were finally able to accomplish without use of a translator. We took turns with Megan in the playroom so that Arlie and I could each pack without Megan getting into everything. Even so, she was around for the final packing and seemed to think we were having fun. In the morning, we will have our big breakfast. Keep a good thought that Megan will not suffer too much on the long flight and day we will have tomorrow. Arlie and I did not get much sleep on the flight over to China and don't expect much sleep on the return flights. We'll be in touch with the extended family and friends after we get some rest. Thanks for following our stories and for the good wishes!

Note to Megan: When you are older and able to read the pages we will print for you from this blog, just know that any concerns or complaints we mentioned were all worth it to be able to bring you home after such a long wait. We love you very much! Love, Mommy and cousin Arlie.