US Consulate Appointment: June 23rd

Today was our last big appointment before Ella can come home with us. We had out US Consulate appointment which is the agency who will issue her visa allowing her to enter the US. Once we pass through immigration in the US, Ella will officially be a US citizen!

The day started super early. We all had to be ready to leave the hotel at 7:30am. However, the day didn't start well because our bus didn't show up on time. Sounds like there was miscommunication with the hotel booking the bus and they weren't even on the way by 7:40am. We were freaking out about what happens if we missed our Consulate appointments. We are ready to go home!! Luckily Holt took care of the issue and even though we were over an hour late the Consulate still saw all of us. Even though this is a big day it is very subdued by government. The interview is done with a glass pane in between us and the worker and the “oath ceremony” occurred again with all the parents at one time and the worker behind glass. Not real classy but regardless this next step was taken care of this morning. And that's the most important! We know in our hearts that we love our daughter and promise to take care of her no matter what.

When we made it back to the hotel, we walked over to grab a quick lunch and then we all split up for a few hours. Ella and I came up to the room for a nap. Ava and Baba headed to the pool to swim. Mark and Kim headed out on their own to do some shopping on Shamian Island. We found out when they returned that they ended up taking a car service from the hotel and paid twice what a taxi cost. But they did make it to where they wanted to go. After Ella and I woke up I started doing a little packing. Only 2 more nights before we head to Hong Kong!

We also went to Yuexiu Park this afternoon to walk around and explore. I wish they had gorgeous parks like this in the states. They're free and big enough to get lost in. Both with lots of history as well as fun things to do as a family. There are 2 of these gorgeous parks near our hotel here. We are spoiled.

We ended the night with McDonalds and a quick stop at the playground. Then baths all around and movie time before bed.

Today was another great day together. Ella and Ava both had great days. A few minor break downs for each of them but nothing compared to what it has been. Ella continues to come out of her shell and we see more and more of her goofy personality all the time. She loves to make people laugh. It's truly amazing how much she has adjusted in just over a week. Unreal how far we all have come. God is so good to us!