So close to home...

Originally posted September 28, 2005

We are so close to home now, we can almost taste it. We have really enjoyed our journey in China and have valued the opportunity to experience Emma Grace's homeland, but we are ready to bring her home. It is not the easiest thing to do....living out of a suitcase. And eating out for every meal...as Emma Grace was throwing one of her fights last night at dinner, I told Jason I mow understand why people with children don't go out to eat much....too much work. Oh, to have an uninterrupted meal.

Today was a free day. She and I got up early this morning and went to Shamian Park to watch the locals do their morning Tai Chi. They are very into fitness and exercise here. I only had 1 Chinese grandma fuss at me for her arms not being covered up. They all want to love on her and give us the thumbs up. They really love their Chinese children and are so grateful for us to be adopting them. So many people tell us, "Lucky Baby".

New Friends

We had our group picture taken and the red couch pictures. I figured Emma Grace would scream, but she did beautifully. We had our visit at the US Consulate today. In a room with probably 75 new families, we took our oath to love and protect Emma Grace. It was very simple and informal. I didn't expect it to be so emotional, but it was. When they guy announced, "Congratulations, you are official", I started crying...big surprise, I know. They gave us her visa and passport and said that when she steps foot at the point of entry into the US (which for us will be Chicago), she will be a US citizen.

Red Couch Girls

It is so overwhelming.This has been an amazing journey we have been privileged to take. We are so amazed at how the 14 girls in our group have grown just in 2 weeks. 2 weeks ago, they were orphans and for the past 2 weeks, they have been living like princesses in 5 star hotels. We are so blessed that God had this plan for our life. The road hasn't always been easy, but it has been guided by God. It took us a long time to accept the plan that God had for us. But once we did, we never looked back and always had complete peace about it. I hope you have enjoyed reading our story. If you are considering adoption, I would tell you it is a wonderful experience. I didn't realize how much I could love this child until they placed her in my arms. We are absolutely in love with her. She is perfect for our family and an answer to many prayers.This will be the last posting until we return home. We leave in the morning.

Daddy and Emma Grace

Today has been a very bittersweet day. We are so ready to come home to our family and friends, but are very sad to be leaving the place of our daughter's birth. As we rode through town today, it was almost as if Emma Grace knew she was leaving. She sat on my lap and took everything in wide eyed. Please continue to keep our family in your prayers. I know the next few weeks are going to be a big time of adjustment for her.

Thanks to everyone who helped us in anyway during this process. The bake sales, the yard sale donations and purchases, the prayers, etc.....We love you all and can't wait to see you!!

Love and hugs from China,
Jason, Denise and Emma Grace