Well, it's hard to believe we're finally on our way home! We are ready! Today we went to the US consulate to get Autumn's visa and to take the oath for her. Though we didn't post about it here because we didn't want to raise any concerns (especially for our 3 kids waiting at home), this was a cause for serious concern over the last couple of days. People in the groups prior to us had not gotten their visas on time because of a computer glitch in D.C. these people missed their flights and may still be on standby. We were told last night we would not get our visas today and we didn't know where we were going to go to wait because the hotel was booked along with all the others in Guaungzhou for a major trade fair starting tomorrow! Plus all flights were booked solid until the 19th.
We got on the phone to Congressman Holden's staff in Lebanon PA, and everyone else started calling congressmen and sentator's offices too. I guess the pho ne lines got hot because we heard that no less than 16 senators and numerous congressmen called the state department and the Consulate in Guangzhou. There was a rumor the Secretary of State herself got involved, which wouldn't be surprising given that level of congressional interest. Anyway be the time we left for the consulate we were told all the visas but two were done and when we arrived we heard that all were done. A cheer went up from the assembled hosts (our guess is 30-50 families total.
So here's a shot of the 3 passports--2 US and one from the People's Republic of China (Autumn will have her US citizenship as soon as her visa is stamped in the US).
And here is that all important Visa.
Here is a photo of us and another couple in our group with our favorite shopkeepers, Dong and Susan and one of their employees
Here is the famous "Red Couch Photo" It's a tradition for the groups from each adoption agency to take a photo of all the children on this red couch in the lobby of the White Swan Hotel. These are the 16 from the Bethany group we traveled with. Most but not all the girls came from the same orphanage as Autumn. 3 are boys. Sorry we couldn't get one with all the girls smiling. If you can't find Autumn, she's the one on the floor in despair in the second photo.
We love and miss you all and can't wait to get up in 5 hoursat 4 am for the 25 hour journey home!
2 comments:
I know that you are ready to get home. I'm praying that Autumn and all of the other babies have a restful flight. I'm so happy that you are finally bringing her home.
Lots of Love, Chris
AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME! God never ceases to amaze. I just caught wind of your web page yesterday, I'm a little out of the loop! We read about your entire journey, with tear filled eyes no less. Autumn is absolutely beautiful and hand picked for you, what could be more awesome. By the way, that little girl can sleep in your bed for as long as you'd like. I can only imagine the security Autumn is finding in your arms (and bed:)). You are a blessed family! Congratulations to your entire family and continued blessings from God!
Love, Heather
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