We touched down in Greenville at about 7:30pm (Eastern Time) on Saturday evening Sept 8. This is after taking off at 8:30am (China Time) on Saturday morning Sept 8. I guess you could say we did the "time warp" and it sure as heck feels like it. Kate did well during her travels and is slowly adjusting to the change as well. I think she is actually transitioning better than Eliz and me. We were basically traveling for 28 hours from when we woke up Saturday morning to when we arrived Saturday night.
We want to again thank everyone who followed our travels and who kept us in their thoughts and prayers. The support we have received while we were away and especially after our return has really moved us and made us realize how lucky we are. I'm not sure how often we will update the blog now that we are home, but I will try to make periodic notes over the next few weeks as we all transition into our new family dynamic.
Ta ta until later,
Kyle.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Thursday, 6 September 2007
Thursday, 6 September 2007
Today was a pretty uneventful day. Our visa and adoption paperwork was brought to the US consulate while we waited in our rooms in case we were needed. Fortunately, we did not receive a call and at around 11:30am Liping brought our Adoption Certificate and Kate’s vaccination book to us with a big congratulations. All we have left is the official consulate appointment on Friday afternoon where will swear an oath and be good to go back home.
As I reflect on the past two weeks, it is hard to account for the time. The transformation we have seen with Kate is truly remarkable. When you have a child from the beginning, you sometimes miss the drastic changes that occur. You witness the gradual transformation and development daily. Here you start with a blank slate and have to unwrap the puzzle/present that is you child. I hope with this “journal” I was able to give anyone some insight into how this process has affected us and how it has impacted Kate already. While I sometimes probably had too much about the events of the day and too little about Kate, I can only say that is how things flow out of my head….get the “technical” details out first (where, when, who, etc.) and then get into the “touchy-feely” side of having this new life to influence and mold.
This may be the last entry until sometime after we return home Saturday evening September 8. If I get a chance I may post once more on Friday, but it depends on what is happening that night. And since we leave at 5:30am on Saturday morning, I know it will not be happening then.
Thanks goes out to everyone who stopped in to check on our progress and especially for leaving comments. It made our days to see the encouraging words from our family and friends. They have helped remind us that we were not here alone. The hardest part of the whole trip for me has been doing it without Zach here. We have missed him tremendously and cannot wait to get home so he can see his little sister.
Thanks again and God bless you all.
Kyle.
Today was a pretty uneventful day. Our visa and adoption paperwork was brought to the US consulate while we waited in our rooms in case we were needed. Fortunately, we did not receive a call and at around 11:30am Liping brought our Adoption Certificate and Kate’s vaccination book to us with a big congratulations. All we have left is the official consulate appointment on Friday afternoon where will swear an oath and be good to go back home.
As I reflect on the past two weeks, it is hard to account for the time. The transformation we have seen with Kate is truly remarkable. When you have a child from the beginning, you sometimes miss the drastic changes that occur. You witness the gradual transformation and development daily. Here you start with a blank slate and have to unwrap the puzzle/present that is you child. I hope with this “journal” I was able to give anyone some insight into how this process has affected us and how it has impacted Kate already. While I sometimes probably had too much about the events of the day and too little about Kate, I can only say that is how things flow out of my head….get the “technical” details out first (where, when, who, etc.) and then get into the “touchy-feely” side of having this new life to influence and mold.
This may be the last entry until sometime after we return home Saturday evening September 8. If I get a chance I may post once more on Friday, but it depends on what is happening that night. And since we leave at 5:30am on Saturday morning, I know it will not be happening then.
Thanks goes out to everyone who stopped in to check on our progress and especially for leaving comments. It made our days to see the encouraging words from our family and friends. They have helped remind us that we were not here alone. The hardest part of the whole trip for me has been doing it without Zach here. We have missed him tremendously and cannot wait to get home so he can see his little sister.
Thanks again and God bless you all.
Kyle.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Wednesday was medical appointment day for the group. We gathered together at 10:00am and walked to the nearby photo shop where all the girls had headshots made for their medical form and US visa application. 
They got a good one of Kate in mid cry which you can kind of see to the left. It was sad and funny at the same time. After their photo shot, we walked a few blocks to the medical examination building here on the island. The exam was really quite simple. There were three stations that each child had to visit. 
One checked their torso and main body parts (chest, legs, head circumference). A second checked their ear, nose, and throat. The third captured her vital statistics (weight, height). The whole process of pictures and medical exam took just over an hour. I’m glad we seemed to get there early because a couple of other groups arrived after us and it became very crowded with all the babies and parents in the less than spacious exam waiting area.
We spent another quiet afternoon on the island and I finally broke down and purchased a few items to bring back. They were mostly things to hang on the wall to remember the trip (like we really need anything to remember this trip).
On Thursday our local contacts (Liping and Peter) head to the US consulate to deliver our adoption paperwork and visa application for Kate. We wait in our room for a couple of hours until they are finished (in case there are issues that they need to call us to correct). After that we are free to do whatever strikes our fancy.
Kate continues to walk more and more. The more she walks, the more “regular” she becomes. We spent more time in the play room Wednesday and Kate got a chance to see and play with some other kids. She likes to watch what other kids do and eventually work her way over to them to play. She also likes to imitate what we do. So far, she can give a decent “high five” and has also started blowing kisses. Now that she seems to be feeling a little better, she also seems to be doing more things each day.
They got a good one of Kate in mid cry which you can kind of see to the left. It was sad and funny at the same time. After their photo shot, we walked a few blocks to the medical examination building here on the island. The exam was really quite simple. There were three stations that each child had to visit. 
One checked their torso and main body parts (chest, legs, head circumference). A second checked their ear, nose, and throat. The third captured her vital statistics (weight, height). The whole process of pictures and medical exam took just over an hour. I’m glad we seemed to get there early because a couple of other groups arrived after us and it became very crowded with all the babies and parents in the less than spacious exam waiting area.We spent another quiet afternoon on the island and I finally broke down and purchased a few items to bring back. They were mostly things to hang on the wall to remember the trip (like we really need anything to remember this trip).
On Thursday our local contacts (Liping and Peter) head to the US consulate to deliver our adoption paperwork and visa application for Kate. We wait in our room for a couple of hours until they are finished (in case there are issues that they need to call us to correct). After that we are free to do whatever strikes our fancy.
Kate continues to walk more and more. The more she walks, the more “regular” she becomes. We spent more time in the play room Wednesday and Kate got a chance to see and play with some other kids. She likes to watch what other kids do and eventually work her way over to them to play. She also likes to imitate what we do. So far, she can give a decent “high five” and has also started blowing kisses. Now that she seems to be feeling a little better, she also seems to be doing more things each day.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Tuesday, 4 September 2007
Tuesday, 4 September 2007
Another open day today to do as we wish.
Breakfast bar……………………..…CHECK
Baby fed……………………………....CHECK
WALKING in Swan Room………CHECK
Down for nap……………………...…CHECK
After a good morning of eating and walking (yes, she really started walking by herself this morning). Eliz and I slipped off while Kate was napping to explore, shop, and drink some Starbucks. We hiked past the Holiday Inn Shifu (where two other families in our group are staying – about ½ mile from our hotel) and walked down the street in front of that hotel to look at all the shops along the way. I was basically one long street of retail shops where you could get clothes, bags, DVD, shoes, shoes, shoes (plenty of shoe stores). I thought about Dad at one point because one shoe store was entirely Converse and 75% of the shoes where the canvas All Stars from yesteryear.
After heading back to the island (Shamian) we stopped at the Starbucks to enjoy a latte and some cheese cake…yum! Then we hit a couple of stores and street vendors and ended up picking up a little artwork. As we were doing so, I kept looking up at our room window to see if the drapes were drawn back to see if Kate was awake yet. It was not until we walked into the room that she woke up. Perfect timing.
Later, Eliz and Gram went out again to help support the local economy. It’s a good thing Gram has two beds in her room because I do not know where she would store her purchases if it was not there. I’m just kidding and must apologize for an earlier comment I made about Gram and her picture taking. I had doubts that she really caught Kate walking for the first time the other day, but after reviewing the evidence from her camera, I stand corrected and respectfully apologize. (She made me do this.)
While they were out, Kate and I headed down to the Swan Room to play a bit and practice her walking some more. Earlier this morning she was walking across the room between Eliz and me. I was such a fantastic moment to see another major hurdle crossed right in front of you eyes. She gets up a head of steam and then lunges into your arms as she gets close. I hope to include a clip with this posting if any of mine are short enough to load. We met a nice man (Greg from Australia) and his daughter (Bridget) while playing and compared stories of our last week here. He leaves for Shanghai on Wednesday to do his Consulate appointment, etc. at the Aussie Consulate.
Once we had played and walked a bit, we popped into the stroller and were off around the block to see what was happening in the steets. Almost everything happens outside or in the streets here. You will see 85 year old women doing stretches on a bench, 10 year olds playing on a step, 4 year olds eating at a store opening (and have them shout “HELLO” as you walk by), adults of all ages playing badminton with or without a net, and school children playing games in the local park outside the primary school. We got to see all these things while walking around for just a few minutes. It is quite amazing. When we got back to the room, Kate had a delicious dinner of beef/carrots, prunes, apple paste, and a couple of bran crackers. This was until we ate (at Lucy’s) where she gets to eat some more from out plates. There has not been a food yet that she has not put into her mouth. She may eventually spit it out after sucking any juice out of it (ie. watermelon), but she tries it nonetheless.
After dinner at Lucy’s, it was a sprint back to the hotel in the pouring rain. Then it was bath time for Kate followed by bed time. We are very lucky because she goes down very easily at night and in her crib.
Wednesday is the day we go get her medical check-up and get pictures made for her visa. After that, we are free yet again to roam.
Three days from now (8am Wed morn) we will be on the plane to Tokyo bringing our precious daughter home. We cannot wait to see everyone and introduce you all to Kate.
God Bless,
Kyle.
Another open day today to do as we wish.
Breakfast bar……………………..…CHECK
Baby fed……………………………....CHECK
WALKING in Swan Room………CHECK
Down for nap……………………...…CHECK
After a good morning of eating and walking (yes, she really started walking by herself this morning). Eliz and I slipped off while Kate was napping to explore, shop, and drink some Starbucks. We hiked past the Holiday Inn Shifu (where two other families in our group are staying – about ½ mile from our hotel) and walked down the street in front of that hotel to look at all the shops along the way. I was basically one long street of retail shops where you could get clothes, bags, DVD, shoes, shoes, shoes (plenty of shoe stores). I thought about Dad at one point because one shoe store was entirely Converse and 75% of the shoes where the canvas All Stars from yesteryear.
After heading back to the island (Shamian) we stopped at the Starbucks to enjoy a latte and some cheese cake…yum! Then we hit a couple of stores and street vendors and ended up picking up a little artwork. As we were doing so, I kept looking up at our room window to see if the drapes were drawn back to see if Kate was awake yet. It was not until we walked into the room that she woke up. Perfect timing.
Later, Eliz and Gram went out again to help support the local economy. It’s a good thing Gram has two beds in her room because I do not know where she would store her purchases if it was not there. I’m just kidding and must apologize for an earlier comment I made about Gram and her picture taking. I had doubts that she really caught Kate walking for the first time the other day, but after reviewing the evidence from her camera, I stand corrected and respectfully apologize. (She made me do this.)
While they were out, Kate and I headed down to the Swan Room to play a bit and practice her walking some more. Earlier this morning she was walking across the room between Eliz and me. I was such a fantastic moment to see another major hurdle crossed right in front of you eyes. She gets up a head of steam and then lunges into your arms as she gets close. I hope to include a clip with this posting if any of mine are short enough to load. We met a nice man (Greg from Australia) and his daughter (Bridget) while playing and compared stories of our last week here. He leaves for Shanghai on Wednesday to do his Consulate appointment, etc. at the Aussie Consulate.
Once we had played and walked a bit, we popped into the stroller and were off around the block to see what was happening in the steets. Almost everything happens outside or in the streets here. You will see 85 year old women doing stretches on a bench, 10 year olds playing on a step, 4 year olds eating at a store opening (and have them shout “HELLO” as you walk by), adults of all ages playing badminton with or without a net, and school children playing games in the local park outside the primary school. We got to see all these things while walking around for just a few minutes. It is quite amazing. When we got back to the room, Kate had a delicious dinner of beef/carrots, prunes, apple paste, and a couple of bran crackers. This was until we ate (at Lucy’s) where she gets to eat some more from out plates. There has not been a food yet that she has not put into her mouth. She may eventually spit it out after sucking any juice out of it (ie. watermelon), but she tries it nonetheless.
After dinner at Lucy’s, it was a sprint back to the hotel in the pouring rain. Then it was bath time for Kate followed by bed time. We are very lucky because she goes down very easily at night and in her crib.
Wednesday is the day we go get her medical check-up and get pictures made for her visa. After that, we are free yet again to roam.
Three days from now (8am Wed morn) we will be on the plane to Tokyo bringing our precious daughter home. We cannot wait to see everyone and introduce you all to Kate.
God Bless,
Kyle.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Sample Video Clip - If it works
This a short clip of Kate earlier last week. It is one of the smaller clips so, hopefully, it will not take to long to load up. If it does, leave a comment and I may remove it and try something else.
Monday, 3 September 2007
Monday was a free day for everyone. Gram and Eliz did a "bit" of shopping (3 hours) after breakfast when Kate was taking a nap. She has been a little under the weather with the snotty nose but has still been a trooper through it all. We had a chance to go on a boat cruise of the Pearl River, but I needed the rest to recharge my batteries (and back). When our guide (Peter) said the food was "so-so" we decided to take a rain check. A few other families went and said the scenery going up and down the river was very nice.
Here's a brief rundown of the rest of the week.
September 4 is another open day and the 5th is the day we go to the doctor and get Kate's passport. The 6th our paperwork is brought to the US Consulate and we wait by the phone in case there are any issues. The 7th we go to the US Consulate to pick up Kate's visa and do a few other items. Saturday, the 8th we are back on the plane headed home.
Monday, 3 September 2007
Monday was a free day for everyone. Gram and Eliz did a "bit" of shopping (3 hours) after breakfast when Kate was taking a nap. She has been a little under the weather with the snotty nose but has still been a trooper through it all. We had a chance to go on a boat cruise of the Pearl River, but I needed the rest to recharge my batteries (and back). When our guide (Peter) said the food was "so-so" we decided to take a rain check. A few other families went and said the scenery going up and down the river was very nice.
Here's a brief rundown of the rest of the week.
September 4 is another open day and the 5th is the day we go to the doctor and get Kate's passport. The 6th our paperwork is brought to the US Consulate and we wait by the phone in case there are any issues. The 7th we go to the US Consulate to pick up Kate's visa and do a few other items. Saturday, the 8th we are back on the plane headed home.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Sunday, 2 September 2007
Sunday, 2 September 2007
If you have followed any previous postings, you will know how this day started. That’s right, to the breakfast bar everyone! After breakfast we did not do too much. Kate was feeling a little under the weather and had turned on the snot faucet so we decided to keep her in a bit and play with her in the room. She perked up some and took a good nap around midday.
In the afternoon we had an excursion with our travel group to Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s memorial and a brief stop at the local toy wholesale market before a Cantonese dinner. The memorial was quite impressive. Sun Yat-sen was the man who brought China into a Nationalist movement (forgive me if I get some details wrong). He stressed that the government should work for the people and not the people for an emperor. His memorial is a large auditorium that looks like a Chinese temple from the outside. It can seat about 4000 people and holds (or has held) various events from plays to operas (or so we were told). The site of the memorial takes up an entire city block so it is quite large.
The toy market was just like other markets/malls here. There are 10,000 stores all on top of each other trying to sell you every conceivable item in the world. Most of it are items that you can get anywhere, but we were guessing all the “Made in China” items must originate here. If you are looking for any authentic Chinese items (or do not like to fight the throngs of people on the multiple levels of this mall) then this is probably not the ideal spot to do that.
After the toy mall, we headed to a “authentic” Chinese restaurant to get Cantonese cuisine. The food was recognizable and edible and those that went were able to eat enough to stay alive. Of course, it may have been the eight bottles of beer that we shared as a group that got us through, but whatever it takes!
Tomorrow is mostly open. Liping is setting up a river cruise in the evening for any interested families.
If you have followed any previous postings, you will know how this day started. That’s right, to the breakfast bar everyone! After breakfast we did not do too much. Kate was feeling a little under the weather and had turned on the snot faucet so we decided to keep her in a bit and play with her in the room. She perked up some and took a good nap around midday.
In the afternoon we had an excursion with our travel group to Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s memorial and a brief stop at the local toy wholesale market before a Cantonese dinner. The memorial was quite impressive. Sun Yat-sen was the man who brought China into a Nationalist movement (forgive me if I get some details wrong). He stressed that the government should work for the people and not the people for an emperor. His memorial is a large auditorium that looks like a Chinese temple from the outside. It can seat about 4000 people and holds (or has held) various events from plays to operas (or so we were told). The site of the memorial takes up an entire city block so it is quite large.
The toy market was just like other markets/malls here. There are 10,000 stores all on top of each other trying to sell you every conceivable item in the world. Most of it are items that you can get anywhere, but we were guessing all the “Made in China” items must originate here. If you are looking for any authentic Chinese items (or do not like to fight the throngs of people on the multiple levels of this mall) then this is probably not the ideal spot to do that.
After the toy mall, we headed to a “authentic” Chinese restaurant to get Cantonese cuisine. The food was recognizable and edible and those that went were able to eat enough to stay alive. Of course, it may have been the eight bottles of beer that we shared as a group that got us through, but whatever it takes!
Tomorrow is mostly open. Liping is setting up a river cruise in the evening for any interested families.
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Random Pictures
Kate at CAB when we picked up Red Book (adoption certificate).
View from our room.
Nothing like electrical safety. Doesn’t look like there is any NEC code here, does it? All this is about 8 feet off the ground which may be okay when the average height is five and half feet.
Zebras for Zach.
Saturday, September 1
Saturday, 1 September 2007
Another day, another breakfast followed by a two-hour session of paperwork completion. One member of each family met with Peter to finish filling out paperwork needed for the American consulate trip later next week. After that we had the rest of the day free. We brought Kate to the playroom for some more fun. The first time she was with Eliz and Gram while I was working on the paperwork and took her first few steps that I think
Gram may have caught on her camera. Anyone that knows Gram and her cameras knows what I mean when I say she “may” have caught it on her camera. I was broken hearted when I found out I missed it, but was partially rewarded later in the day when I was playing with her while Gram and Eliz were out and about. She crawled a bit and stood up a bit, but as we were getting ready to leave she stood up and took two steps right to my outstretched arms. It was a great moment. The picture with the orange ball was seconds before she stood up on her own. It is good to see her make progress.
Another day, another breakfast followed by a two-hour session of paperwork completion. One member of each family met with Peter to finish filling out paperwork needed for the American consulate trip later next week. After that we had the rest of the day free. We brought Kate to the playroom for some more fun. The first time she was with Eliz and Gram while I was working on the paperwork and took her first few steps that I think
Gram may have caught on her camera. Anyone that knows Gram and her cameras knows what I mean when I say she “may” have caught it on her camera. I was broken hearted when I found out I missed it, but was partially rewarded later in the day when I was playing with her while Gram and Eliz were out and about. She crawled a bit and stood up a bit, but as we were getting ready to leave she stood up and took two steps right to my outstretched arms. It was a great moment. The picture with the orange ball was seconds before she stood up on her own. It is good to see her make progress.
Each day we continue to learn a little more about her. She really enjoys throwing her toys down and laughing when she looks at you. Here's another picture of her in the play room laughing and playing with a ball. Her stacking cups are some of her favorite toys. She will reach out and give it to you and say “gah!”. It is so funny. When eating, she has really started reaching out at things. This morning she actually knocked a glass of apple juice out of Gram’s hand. We have to clear the part of the table where she sits because she will reach out and snag anything.
Later in the evening we walked over to the Holiday Inn Shifu where two other families are staying. There is a large pedestrian street that is nothing but stores. We grabbed a bite to eat at the KFC and walked around the rather large pearl market underneath some seven story mall. The scene on the street reminded me of Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras or New Years, there were people everywhere. Navigating it with several families and strollers in tow was a nice challenge. I've included a picture of the street for your viewing pleasure.Farewell until later,
KEG.
Friday, 31 August 2007 
Today was Zoo day. After our typical breakfast we met the rest of our travel group and went to visit the Guangzhou Zoo. We were not sure what to expect and were pleasantly surprised when we arrived. The zoo was larger than we expected and was impeccably manicured. It had the typical zoo animals with the exception of the panda bear. It also had a small amusement park section where there were rides for kids. There was a mini roller coaster, a mini log ride, and a couple of other small rides that you normally see at the kids part of an amusement park. We spent about one and a half hours strolling through the zoo and after leaving we went to lunch at Hong Xing Seafood Restaurant for a dim sum lunch. A little bit of this and little bit of that (ie. beer) and we were off back to our hotels to spend the afternoon however we wished. We’re not sure how much Kate enjoyed the zoo because she slept through most of it.
While Gram rested upon our return, Eliz, Kate and I set out to run a few errands. We picked up some film and a couple of other items (like water). We snapped a shot in front of the Starbucks that is only a block from the hotel. No, we have not been in yet, but I’m sure it is coming soon. Eventually we wandered back to our room to get ready for dinner. As you may be able to tell from the picture, someone really enjoys their time in the stroller...snore! (as long as it is moving).
Today was Zoo day. After our typical breakfast we met the rest of our travel group and went to visit the Guangzhou Zoo. We were not sure what to expect and were pleasantly surprised when we arrived. The zoo was larger than we expected and was impeccably manicured. It had the typical zoo animals with the exception of the panda bear. It also had a small amusement park section where there were rides for kids. There was a mini roller coaster, a mini log ride, and a couple of other small rides that you normally see at the kids part of an amusement park. We spent about one and a half hours strolling through the zoo and after leaving we went to lunch at Hong Xing Seafood Restaurant for a dim sum lunch. A little bit of this and little bit of that (ie. beer) and we were off back to our hotels to spend the afternoon however we wished. We’re not sure how much Kate enjoyed the zoo because she slept through most of it.
While Gram rested upon our return, Eliz, Kate and I set out to run a few errands. We picked up some film and a couple of other items (like water). We snapped a shot in front of the Starbucks that is only a block from the hotel. No, we have not been in yet, but I’m sure it is coming soon. Eventually we wandered back to our room to get ready for dinner. As you may be able to tell from the picture, someone really enjoys their time in the stroller...snore! (as long as it is moving).
A few items of note about Kate today: she stood up for the first time today and crawled a little bit while in the Swan Room. The picture is a bit blurry, but she was in the act of standing when I snapped the photo. She really has been quite a treasure so far. The other day a young couple stopped us outside the hotel restaurant and asked if they could take a picture with her. They said she was very beautiful and that is why they wanted a picture. I’m not sure what to make of it, but I cannot say that I can disagree with their opinion. She is such a cutie!One thing I’ve noticed is that I am getting to bed much earlier these days. It must be a combination of all the changes, but once 8:30pm rolls around, Homey is ready to call it a night. Too bad the beds are like sleeping on a slab of marble. Do not even think about sleeping on your side, unless you want major shoulder issues in the morning. We have tried layering all the extra comforters onto the mattress, but that really does not help at all. Oh well.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thursday, 30 August 2007
Thursday, 30 August 2007
As expected, today began much like the other days. Kate woke around 7:15am and we all casually got ready before heading down to breakfast. After breakfast we were going to run a few errands but I wanted to exchange a little money first. Minor mistake. A nice man helped us get a number to wait in line and when we realized it would be a while (like Dan at work warned), mommy, Gram, and Kate headed back to check out the play room in the hotel. An hour later, I finally accomplished that item on the to-do list and went back to the hotel to retrieve our three ladies. They had a good time playing and meeting other adopted parents/children. Elizabeth even met up with another Greenville native. They had both heard about each other through a mutual friend at Furman and as luck would have it, they ran into each other right outside the Swan Room. A little bit of home when you are half way around the world never hurts.
We eventually went out and stopped at a few shops to pick up a few items and leave laundry and film to develop. Little Kate was falling asleep in her stroller so we went back up to the room to let her nap some.
After her nap, we went back out and walked around the island a bit. The first place we headed towards was the Catholic Church that was about 4 blocks away. It was a small church built/founded by the French in 1892. Unfortunately, all the signs were in Chinese except for one so it was hard to tell if it was still serving as a church. Just then, it began to rain so we turned to head back after a quick stop at the supermarket.
Upon arriving back to the hotel we decided to get an early dinner for a change and ate at the White Swan River Café. Not exactly the place to go to eat every day because they really thing highly of their food. It was good, but not THAT good. Either way, we knew what to expect and wanted to have a relaxing meal close to home base. During dinner, they came a draped small cloths (that match the table covers) over the purse and bags that we carried into the café. Oh such high class and me sitting there in my Crocs! Whatever.
Today was another good day for Kate. Eliz and Gram said that she did some things in the play room that she has not done yet. She reached for another baby and stood a little more on her own. Also, in the evening after dinner she was very chatty. She was babbling different sounds like “ma-ma-ma-ma-ma” and of course “dah”. She laughed good bit today and each day another layer of the onion is pealed away to reveal a remarkable little girl.
On Friday morning I hope the local ESPN channel will broadcast the first college football game of the year. My guess is they will not. I’ve seen more Australian rules football than anything. I also watched the USA basketball team destroy Puerto Rico (in Chinese) the other night. Oh yeah, they have HBO but most of the movies are about 10 years old. It is really bizarre, but good nonetheless.
KEG.
As expected, today began much like the other days. Kate woke around 7:15am and we all casually got ready before heading down to breakfast. After breakfast we were going to run a few errands but I wanted to exchange a little money first. Minor mistake. A nice man helped us get a number to wait in line and when we realized it would be a while (like Dan at work warned), mommy, Gram, and Kate headed back to check out the play room in the hotel. An hour later, I finally accomplished that item on the to-do list and went back to the hotel to retrieve our three ladies. They had a good time playing and meeting other adopted parents/children. Elizabeth even met up with another Greenville native. They had both heard about each other through a mutual friend at Furman and as luck would have it, they ran into each other right outside the Swan Room. A little bit of home when you are half way around the world never hurts.
We eventually went out and stopped at a few shops to pick up a few items and leave laundry and film to develop. Little Kate was falling asleep in her stroller so we went back up to the room to let her nap some.
After her nap, we went back out and walked around the island a bit. The first place we headed towards was the Catholic Church that was about 4 blocks away. It was a small church built/founded by the French in 1892. Unfortunately, all the signs were in Chinese except for one so it was hard to tell if it was still serving as a church. Just then, it began to rain so we turned to head back after a quick stop at the supermarket.
Upon arriving back to the hotel we decided to get an early dinner for a change and ate at the White Swan River Café. Not exactly the place to go to eat every day because they really thing highly of their food. It was good, but not THAT good. Either way, we knew what to expect and wanted to have a relaxing meal close to home base. During dinner, they came a draped small cloths (that match the table covers) over the purse and bags that we carried into the café. Oh such high class and me sitting there in my Crocs! Whatever.
Today was another good day for Kate. Eliz and Gram said that she did some things in the play room that she has not done yet. She reached for another baby and stood a little more on her own. Also, in the evening after dinner she was very chatty. She was babbling different sounds like “ma-ma-ma-ma-ma” and of course “dah”. She laughed good bit today and each day another layer of the onion is pealed away to reveal a remarkable little girl.
On Friday morning I hope the local ESPN channel will broadcast the first college football game of the year. My guess is they will not. I’ve seen more Australian rules football than anything. I also watched the USA basketball team destroy Puerto Rico (in Chinese) the other night. Oh yeah, they have HBO but most of the movies are about 10 years old. It is really bizarre, but good nonetheless.
KEG.
Wednesday, 29 August 2007
Wednesday, 29 August 2007
Another day, another solid night of sleep for our little princess. Just like yesterday, she woke after a good night’s sleep and we headed down to the hotel buffet. If you have not noticed, this is where we usually load up on calories that carry us through the day. We are still getting used to things around here and are not yet actively seeking the local cuisine.
This morning we could see a noticeable change in Kate’s demeanor. She appeared much more alert and engaging with our attempts to entertain her. She would smile at some of the silly things we tried and once food started hitting the table she starting saying “DAH!”. Now, whenever she sees something she likes or (I guess) is funny, she turns to one of us and says real clearly “DAH!. Now if I could only string two of those together then I could claim she is saying “dada”. Well, thinking about it some more, she could be saying “dada” or she could be seeing something very funny when she looks at me. I’ll take the former if it comes down to it.
Still at breakfast, Gram played patty cake with her and she started to clap her hands.
It was quite a moment to see her try to clap herself. Again, the difference in her Wednesday morning versus Tuesday morning is really an encouraging sign. After breakfast we strolled to the Swan Room to play. This is a room set up in the hotel where you can bring you kids to play. It has little tables, stuffed animals, balls, and a few other items to use. Kate was able to push a ball back and forth and did partially stand next to a small table. Most of her weight was on her legs and I only gave her a little bracing behind her to keep her upright. It was not much, but it was better than what she had done so far.
In the afternoon we were again escorted to the CAB to receive our official adoption certificate (“Red Book”). Once we had this in our hands, she was legally ours in the eyes of the Chinese government. One country down, one more to go (U.S.). We then headed down to the security bureau to apply for Kate’s passport. There must have been 40 adoptive families in the waiting area when we arrived and I was worried we would be there for quite a while. [In this waiting area there is a sign that says “Please be Quiet” but you turn around and there are 40 babies and families milling around. Yeah, good luch enforcing that rule.] Fortunately, Peter our local helper in this paperwork maze, had us up at the counter in about 10 minutes. We sat down across the desk from the lovely Dong Fang (Security Bureau worker) and after a few strokes on her keyboard and a snapshot of Kate with a computer camera, we were off back to the bus. I must give Peter credit, he has kept us on track and seemingly minimized our waits where possible.
Once we were away from the Security Bureau, we stopped at the local Carref
our (Walmart-ish type store) to say we have been there. It was a multi-level maze of merchandise. I’m sure there was some system to the layout, but we did not have enough time to study it to figure it out. We hit the stream of humanity that was the checkout lanes and eventually got back outside to wait for the rest of our group and bus. Luckily, we ran into Peter near the checkout and had him close by in case we had any questions.
We returned to our hotel after a long, warm afternoon and little Kate was just tuckered out. After a little dinner for her, she was cleaned up and put to bed and asleep in a minute or two. We branched out and ordered from Danny’s Bagels tonight. Hey, at least they have locals working and doing the cooking so you could say it is sort of Chinese food.
We capped our evening by calling Grandpa (Gordon) at 7:15 to wish his a happy birthday. I hope you played well for your 11:40 tee time. By then, we were fast asleep.
Thursday is a free day for us to do whatever we desire. I’m sure it will begin with a visit to the breakfast buffet followed by some shopping and perhaps a laundry run. On Friday, there is a planned outing to the Guangzhou Zoo for our travel group. Saturday and Sunday are open as well.
Talk more later,
KEG.
Another day, another solid night of sleep for our little princess. Just like yesterday, she woke after a good night’s sleep and we headed down to the hotel buffet. If you have not noticed, this is where we usually load up on calories that carry us through the day. We are still getting used to things around here and are not yet actively seeking the local cuisine.
This morning we could see a noticeable change in Kate’s demeanor. She appeared much more alert and engaging with our attempts to entertain her. She would smile at some of the silly things we tried and once food started hitting the table she starting saying “DAH!”. Now, whenever she sees something she likes or (I guess) is funny, she turns to one of us and says real clearly “DAH!. Now if I could only string two of those together then I could claim she is saying “dada”. Well, thinking about it some more, she could be saying “dada” or she could be seeing something very funny when she looks at me. I’ll take the former if it comes down to it.
Still at breakfast, Gram played patty cake with her and she started to clap her hands.
It was quite a moment to see her try to clap herself. Again, the difference in her Wednesday morning versus Tuesday morning is really an encouraging sign. After breakfast we strolled to the Swan Room to play. This is a room set up in the hotel where you can bring you kids to play. It has little tables, stuffed animals, balls, and a few other items to use. Kate was able to push a ball back and forth and did partially stand next to a small table. Most of her weight was on her legs and I only gave her a little bracing behind her to keep her upright. It was not much, but it was better than what she had done so far.In the afternoon we were again escorted to the CAB to receive our official adoption certificate (“Red Book”). Once we had this in our hands, she was legally ours in the eyes of the Chinese government. One country down, one more to go (U.S.). We then headed down to the security bureau to apply for Kate’s passport. There must have been 40 adoptive families in the waiting area when we arrived and I was worried we would be there for quite a while. [In this waiting area there is a sign that says “Please be Quiet” but you turn around and there are 40 babies and families milling around. Yeah, good luch enforcing that rule.] Fortunately, Peter our local helper in this paperwork maze, had us up at the counter in about 10 minutes. We sat down across the desk from the lovely Dong Fang (Security Bureau worker) and after a few strokes on her keyboard and a snapshot of Kate with a computer camera, we were off back to the bus. I must give Peter credit, he has kept us on track and seemingly minimized our waits where possible.
Once we were away from the Security Bureau, we stopped at the local Carref
our (Walmart-ish type store) to say we have been there. It was a multi-level maze of merchandise. I’m sure there was some system to the layout, but we did not have enough time to study it to figure it out. We hit the stream of humanity that was the checkout lanes and eventually got back outside to wait for the rest of our group and bus. Luckily, we ran into Peter near the checkout and had him close by in case we had any questions.We returned to our hotel after a long, warm afternoon and little Kate was just tuckered out. After a little dinner for her, she was cleaned up and put to bed and asleep in a minute or two. We branched out and ordered from Danny’s Bagels tonight. Hey, at least they have locals working and doing the cooking so you could say it is sort of Chinese food.
We capped our evening by calling Grandpa (Gordon) at 7:15 to wish his a happy birthday. I hope you played well for your 11:40 tee time. By then, we were fast asleep.
Thursday is a free day for us to do whatever we desire. I’m sure it will begin with a visit to the breakfast buffet followed by some shopping and perhaps a laundry run. On Friday, there is a planned outing to the Guangzhou Zoo for our travel group. Saturday and Sunday are open as well.
Talk more later,
KEG.
Tuesday, 28 August 2007
Tuesday, 28 August 2007
On Tuesday, August 28, little Kate woke up at around 6:45am after a really solid nights sleep. She was tired and we were tired, so it served us all to have a good bit of rest that first night. Thank you God for looking out for us in that regard. We had a quiet morning that included a trip to the breakfast bar where we found out that she will eat just about anything you put in front of her. While she may not be standing and walking well, here fine motor skills in her hands are pretty good. She will take a piece of food between her thumb and index finger and put it up to her mouth and take a dainty little bite of her food. It is too cute! She really comes alive when you sit down at the table and start eating. She will watch as every bite goes to your mouth and to hers. This is the time where she really likes to reach out and grab what she sees. Other than during meals, she is still very reserved and appears somewhat wary of what is happening around her.
In the afternoon of Tuesday, the group assembled in the lobby of the White Swan so that we could head back to the CAB (Civil Affairs Bureau) to submit the paperwork that we filled out the night before.
We submitted our Application for Adoption, our Adoption Notarization Application, and took our first “official” family photo for our adoption certificate (got it on the first take, thank you very much). This is also the time we were formerly “interviewed” by the CAB staffer responsible for that task. It was a very routine session where they verified our name, age, and made sure we would not abandon or abuse our new child (sarcastic remark omitted). After that interview we moved upstairs to the 9th floor for our notary interview. She asked basically the same questions, filled out a very similar form, and said thank you. It is amazing how even though we have filled out forms with all this info on it (in triplicate), these steps are also required. I presume that it is a form of checks and balances (and employment generation) to ensure a “thorough” process.
Once we were finished with our official business, it was back to the hotel for us. We freshened up a bit and then headed out to get a bite to eat. This night we visited the nearby Lucy’s Restaurant. It caters to the western palate with hamburgers, grilled cheese, French fries, etc. Kate loved her congee with chicken pieces in it. So much so, that she lunged for it when they put it on the table. Just a minor spill cleanup and we proceeded to “enjoy” the rest of our meal.*** After dinner we visited some of the shops nearby where Gram finally got to buy something: some squeaky shoes for Kate and some other things I won’t mention in case she wants them to be a surprise to those back home. Once back in the hotel, we cleaned Kate up and put her down for bed where she fell asleep in about 1 minute. She’s one amazing little girl.
With everything she has been through over the last two days, she is very calm and content (as long as you hold her). She seems to be getting more comfortable with us and has made a few utterances as she slowly starts to come out of her shell.
On Tuesday, August 28, little Kate woke up at around 6:45am after a really solid nights sleep. She was tired and we were tired, so it served us all to have a good bit of rest that first night. Thank you God for looking out for us in that regard. We had a quiet morning that included a trip to the breakfast bar where we found out that she will eat just about anything you put in front of her. While she may not be standing and walking well, here fine motor skills in her hands are pretty good. She will take a piece of food between her thumb and index finger and put it up to her mouth and take a dainty little bite of her food. It is too cute! She really comes alive when you sit down at the table and start eating. She will watch as every bite goes to your mouth and to hers. This is the time where she really likes to reach out and grab what she sees. Other than during meals, she is still very reserved and appears somewhat wary of what is happening around her.
In the afternoon of Tuesday, the group assembled in the lobby of the White Swan so that we could head back to the CAB (Civil Affairs Bureau) to submit the paperwork that we filled out the night before.
We submitted our Application for Adoption, our Adoption Notarization Application, and took our first “official” family photo for our adoption certificate (got it on the first take, thank you very much). This is also the time we were formerly “interviewed” by the CAB staffer responsible for that task. It was a very routine session where they verified our name, age, and made sure we would not abandon or abuse our new child (sarcastic remark omitted). After that interview we moved upstairs to the 9th floor for our notary interview. She asked basically the same questions, filled out a very similar form, and said thank you. It is amazing how even though we have filled out forms with all this info on it (in triplicate), these steps are also required. I presume that it is a form of checks and balances (and employment generation) to ensure a “thorough” process.Once we were finished with our official business, it was back to the hotel for us. We freshened up a bit and then headed out to get a bite to eat. This night we visited the nearby Lucy’s Restaurant. It caters to the western palate with hamburgers, grilled cheese, French fries, etc. Kate loved her congee with chicken pieces in it. So much so, that she lunged for it when they put it on the table. Just a minor spill cleanup and we proceeded to “enjoy” the rest of our meal.*** After dinner we visited some of the shops nearby where Gram finally got to buy something: some squeaky shoes for Kate and some other things I won’t mention in case she wants them to be a surprise to those back home. Once back in the hotel, we cleaned Kate up and put her down for bed where she fell asleep in about 1 minute. She’s one amazing little girl.
With everything she has been through over the last two days, she is very calm and content (as long as you hold her). She seems to be getting more comfortable with us and has made a few utterances as she slowly starts to come out of her shell.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Summary Part 4 - Guangzhou & Gotcha
27 August 2007 10:20pm Guangzhou (10:20am EST)
Guangzhou:
Okay, we landed at about 11:15pm Sunday and met our local contact (Li Ping) who escorted us to our hotel, the White Swan. They only had us in one room with third bed/cot added and we knew pretty quickly that this was not going to cut it for two weeks. We made due for the night and after all the events finished this afternoon, we got a second room two doors down to help alleviate the congestion. So picture this if you will………you enter a hotel room and as you walk past the bathroom you have the first bed, then in the space between the two beds you have a crib then the second bed, then a third bed/cot next to it, then the wall. Needless to say, navigating around the luggage and beds/crib/cot was not something we wanted to do for two weeks, thus the change.
But all that is useless fodder compared to the real events of the day that occurred around 2pm. At 1:15pm, we met Liping in the lobby and finally met the other families in our travel group. Two are from Oregon, one from Wisconsin, and one from Florida. The couple from Florida (Pale and Kate) are adopting their second daughter so they are the veterans of the group. We piled into a small bus and headed to the CAB (Civil Affairs Bureau) to meet our daughters for the first time. We rode the elevator to the ninth floor and were all led into a small office room about 15’ x 15’. It was not long before they called Paul and Kate to the door and led their daughter in. Seeing that for another family really started to drive it home for us. After all the waiting, after all the frustrations, after all the anticipation, it was finally about to happen. Next were the Wheelers from Oregon and then they called out Yi Qing and we knew it was our turn at the door. As we squatted down to receive her she was led in by one of the ladies at the CAB. She was not walking, but rather was being held up trying to get her to walk in. Elizabeth took her in her arms and we both stood and walked to a corner where we could soak in the moment a bit more. She did not really fuss and although she is a bit tentative, she was not screaming as though she was in hot oil. She likes to be held and has not shown much interest in being put down yet.
Thanks to Gram, 
we have the moment caught on video an also have good pictures of our short time at the CAB. I say short because we had to get out of the office by 2:30pm so that another group could come in to received their children. Peter (our leader for this expedition) said there were over 40 families who were supposed to be receiving children today at the CAB. I believed him because when we stepped out of the office, the reception area was packed (40+ people) with other couples waiting their turn.
The families all went back to the White Swan where the dads met in Liping’s room to fill out paperwork that would be need for the appointments on Tuesday. Once that was completed, a few of us had to run the local supermarket and pick up some formula and cereal so that we would have something to feed our beautiful new daughters. I was also able to pick up some coke and a few celebratory beers to enjoy with our Papa John’s pizza we had later that night (after not having a real meal for over 24 hours). Little Kate has been mostly quiet so far. She had a brief time where she was fussy and cried a little but eventually she settled down and fell asleep around 7:30pm. We could tell when we received her that she was one tired little princess. As I write this she is asleep behind me and I can hear her as she inhales and exhales.
We got to talk to Zach and the gang back home to share the wonderful news that we have a new addition. Although it is not official until about 2:00pm tomorrow, it is a done deal in our hearts.
Tomorrow we will be free in the morning and have another appointment at the CAB to submit our Adoption Application and Notarization of Adoption Application.
Say a prayer for us. The most important thing we have to do is learn more about Kate and give her as much love and attention that we can Again, we also want to thank our family and friend back home for the support we have received and are still receiving as we work to bring Kate back home.
God Bless,
Kyle.
And finally...
Guangzhou:
Okay, we landed at about 11:15pm Sunday and met our local contact (Li Ping) who escorted us to our hotel, the White Swan. They only had us in one room with third bed/cot added and we knew pretty quickly that this was not going to cut it for two weeks. We made due for the night and after all the events finished this afternoon, we got a second room two doors down to help alleviate the congestion. So picture this if you will………you enter a hotel room and as you walk past the bathroom you have the first bed, then in the space between the two beds you have a crib then the second bed, then a third bed/cot next to it, then the wall. Needless to say, navigating around the luggage and beds/crib/cot was not something we wanted to do for two weeks, thus the change.
But all that is useless fodder compared to the real events of the day that occurred around 2pm. At 1:15pm, we met Liping in the lobby and finally met the other families in our travel group. Two are from Oregon, one from Wisconsin, and one from Florida. The couple from Florida (Pale and Kate) are adopting their second daughter so they are the veterans of the group. We piled into a small bus and headed to the CAB (Civil Affairs Bureau) to meet our daughters for the first time. We rode the elevator to the ninth floor and were all led into a small office room about 15’ x 15’. It was not long before they called Paul and Kate to the door and led their daughter in. Seeing that for another family really started to drive it home for us. After all the waiting, after all the frustrations, after all the anticipation, it was finally about to happen. Next were the Wheelers from Oregon and then they called out Yi Qing and we knew it was our turn at the door. As we squatted down to receive her she was led in by one of the ladies at the CAB. She was not walking, but rather was being held up trying to get her to walk in. Elizabeth took her in her arms and we both stood and walked to a corner where we could soak in the moment a bit more. She did not really fuss and although she is a bit tentative, she was not screaming as though she was in hot oil. She likes to be held and has not shown much interest in being put down yet.
Thanks to Gram, 
we have the moment caught on video an also have good pictures of our short time at the CAB. I say short because we had to get out of the office by 2:30pm so that another group could come in to received their children. Peter (our leader for this expedition) said there were over 40 families who were supposed to be receiving children today at the CAB. I believed him because when we stepped out of the office, the reception area was packed (40+ people) with other couples waiting their turn.The families all went back to the White Swan where the dads met in Liping’s room to fill out paperwork that would be need for the appointments on Tuesday. Once that was completed, a few of us had to run the local supermarket and pick up some formula and cereal so that we would have something to feed our beautiful new daughters. I was also able to pick up some coke and a few celebratory beers to enjoy with our Papa John’s pizza we had later that night (after not having a real meal for over 24 hours). Little Kate has been mostly quiet so far. She had a brief time where she was fussy and cried a little but eventually she settled down and fell asleep around 7:30pm. We could tell when we received her that she was one tired little princess. As I write this she is asleep behind me and I can hear her as she inhales and exhales.
We got to talk to Zach and the gang back home to share the wonderful news that we have a new addition. Although it is not official until about 2:00pm tomorrow, it is a done deal in our hearts.
Tomorrow we will be free in the morning and have another appointment at the CAB to submit our Adoption Application and Notarization of Adoption Application.
Say a prayer for us. The most important thing we have to do is learn more about Kate and give her as much love and attention that we can Again, we also want to thank our family and friend back home for the support we have received and are still receiving as we work to bring Kate back home.
God Bless,
Kyle.
Summay Part 3 - Beijing
27 August 2007 7:50pm Guangzhou (7:50am EST)
What a day (or two)! The last two days have been quite a blur. We spent all day Sunday the 26th touring Beijing. After sleeping for a few hours we woke up and experience our first breakfast buffet in China. It had the usual items you would see in the states (eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, rolls) and some things that are common here in China (noodles, coddled(?hard boiled?) eggs, some type of wonton soup (it appeared)).
Beijing:
After getting some sustenance, we met our guide for the day (Belinda) and proceeded with our driver (Master Li) to Tiananmen Square. Our Honda Accord stopped right at the edge of the square and we hopped out into a light drizzle. As we walked across the massive layout we passed the large memorial to soldiers that fought in the wars. It is a large square pillar type structure near the center of the square. Next we swung by the Olympic countdown clock located on the east side of the square and then headed to the south entrance of the Forbidden City.
The former city of the emperors is quite an imposing complex. There was much renovation underway because of the Olympics next year. Everyone is VERY excited and proud that they are hosting the games in 2008. The motto (One World, One Dream) can be found everywhere, including on the side of the mountain at the Great Wall. You could tell that in its prime the Forbidden City must have been a spectacular site. We walked all the way through the city and took at good picture at the “Couples Tree”. This is two trees that have grown together and appear to have interlocking arms. Once we came out the north entrance, our trusty Master Li delivered us to a jade market. The young lady there gave us a brief overview of the jade refining/carving process and helped give us clues on how to determine the quality of different jades. They had an excellent array of choices, but I just could not pull the trigger to bring home the 4’ tall tiger. I think it may have been over the weight limit for checked baggage.
After an “authentic” Chinese lunch at the Friendship Store, we were off to see the Great Wall. It is quite amazing that as you enter the mountain range north of Beijing you almost immediately start seeing parts of the wall. It was wet and cool when we arrived but we know it sure beat being 100 degrees and muggy. Gram and Belinda (our guide) were able to make it to one tower, while Elizabeth and I skipped on to the second. Let it be known here that I was ready to keep going even though the next stretch looked pretty darn brutal, however, I could tell that I would have to pull Eliz up the last bit. Since I was not sure I would make it all the way, we decided discretion was the better part of valor and just soaked in what we could at the tower we made it too. Again, I found it remarkable to look over the ranges and see the wall and towers as far as you could see. It was just a really cool thing to see. I would love to hike more just for the experience, but that will have to wait for another time, if ever.
Well, Beijing is almost done. After the Great Wall, we were dropped off at the airport where Miranda (local volunteer who picked us up at the airport Sat. night) brought us our checked baggage. We spent an hour or so waiting to check in and had a chance to talk to both Belinda and Miranda more. They both expressed and interest to come to the US, but said that it is very hard to obtain a visa for entry. It appears the best chance it to find a school that you can attend for graduate studies and go on a student visa. We eventually said our goodbyes and went past security to wait at our gate for the flight to Guangzhou. The flight to Guangzhou was very smooth and the flight attendants were some of the nicest we’ve had this trip (right up there with the Tokyo to Beijing crew).
One more to go....
What a day (or two)! The last two days have been quite a blur. We spent all day Sunday the 26th touring Beijing. After sleeping for a few hours we woke up and experience our first breakfast buffet in China. It had the usual items you would see in the states (eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, rolls) and some things that are common here in China (noodles, coddled(?hard boiled?) eggs, some type of wonton soup (it appeared)).
Beijing:
After getting some sustenance, we met our guide for the day (Belinda) and proceeded with our driver (Master Li) to Tiananmen Square. Our Honda Accord stopped right at the edge of the square and we hopped out into a light drizzle. As we walked across the massive layout we passed the large memorial to soldiers that fought in the wars. It is a large square pillar type structure near the center of the square. Next we swung by the Olympic countdown clock located on the east side of the square and then headed to the south entrance of the Forbidden City.
The former city of the emperors is quite an imposing complex. There was much renovation underway because of the Olympics next year. Everyone is VERY excited and proud that they are hosting the games in 2008. The motto (One World, One Dream) can be found everywhere, including on the side of the mountain at the Great Wall. You could tell that in its prime the Forbidden City must have been a spectacular site. We walked all the way through the city and took at good picture at the “Couples Tree”. This is two trees that have grown together and appear to have interlocking arms. Once we came out the north entrance, our trusty Master Li delivered us to a jade market. The young lady there gave us a brief overview of the jade refining/carving process and helped give us clues on how to determine the quality of different jades. They had an excellent array of choices, but I just could not pull the trigger to bring home the 4’ tall tiger. I think it may have been over the weight limit for checked baggage.
After an “authentic” Chinese lunch at the Friendship Store, we were off to see the Great Wall. It is quite amazing that as you enter the mountain range north of Beijing you almost immediately start seeing parts of the wall. It was wet and cool when we arrived but we know it sure beat being 100 degrees and muggy. Gram and Belinda (our guide) were able to make it to one tower, while Elizabeth and I skipped on to the second. Let it be known here that I was ready to keep going even though the next stretch looked pretty darn brutal, however, I could tell that I would have to pull Eliz up the last bit. Since I was not sure I would make it all the way, we decided discretion was the better part of valor and just soaked in what we could at the tower we made it too. Again, I found it remarkable to look over the ranges and see the wall and towers as far as you could see. It was just a really cool thing to see. I would love to hike more just for the experience, but that will have to wait for another time, if ever.
Well, Beijing is almost done. After the Great Wall, we were dropped off at the airport where Miranda (local volunteer who picked us up at the airport Sat. night) brought us our checked baggage. We spent an hour or so waiting to check in and had a chance to talk to both Belinda and Miranda more. They both expressed and interest to come to the US, but said that it is very hard to obtain a visa for entry. It appears the best chance it to find a school that you can attend for graduate studies and go on a student visa. We eventually said our goodbyes and went past security to wait at our gate for the flight to Guangzhou. The flight to Guangzhou was very smooth and the flight attendants were some of the nicest we’ve had this trip (right up there with the Tokyo to Beijing crew).
One more to go....
Summary Part 2
25 August 2007 11:50pm Beijing (11:50am EST)
Alas, the weary travelers have arrived in Beijing. They checked into their hotel and all had a good scrubbing to wash away the grime of 28+ hours in transit (18+ of those in the flying tubes). All of the flights went off without a hitch and their baggage was already at the conveyor by the time they got through the first two checkpoints and, boy, was that a relief. After a brief wait once through customs, their local rep (Miranda) found them outside baggage claim and escorted them to their hotel and gave them a brief rundown of Sunday’s events.
The Haudu Hotel where we are staying for the one night in Beijing is nice. We have a double bed that is the size of our king beds in thestates and one small cot that they added once we checked-in. Tomorrow we will be doing a whirlwind tour of the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Great Wall which will be followed by a late departure to Guangzhou (7:15pm). That puts us in Guangzhou around 10:15pm and hopefully resting in our hotel (White Swan) by midnight. Monday morning is the biggest day of the trip as it is the moment we get to meet our daughter, Kate. After a long journey as this, we wish it were tomorrow.
KEG.
Alas, the weary travelers have arrived in Beijing. They checked into their hotel and all had a good scrubbing to wash away the grime of 28+ hours in transit (18+ of those in the flying tubes). All of the flights went off without a hitch and their baggage was already at the conveyor by the time they got through the first two checkpoints and, boy, was that a relief. After a brief wait once through customs, their local rep (Miranda) found them outside baggage claim and escorted them to their hotel and gave them a brief rundown of Sunday’s events.
The Haudu Hotel where we are staying for the one night in Beijing is nice. We have a double bed that is the size of our king beds in thestates and one small cot that they added once we checked-in. Tomorrow we will be doing a whirlwind tour of the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Great Wall which will be followed by a late departure to Guangzhou (7:15pm). That puts us in Guangzhou around 10:15pm and hopefully resting in our hotel (White Swan) by midnight. Monday morning is the biggest day of the trip as it is the moment we get to meet our daughter, Kate. After a long journey as this, we wish it were tomorrow.
KEG.
The summary of all summaries Part 1
I finally have established an internet connection and will publish a few updates to get everyone up to speed. Luckily, I have been writing each night in MSWord, so hopefully this is just a matter of cutting and pasting. Here it goes.....
25 August 2007 5:10pm Tokyo time (4:10am EST; 4:10pm China time)
So far so good. We have made it to Tokyo and are awaiting the final leg across to Beijing. The flight from Detroit to Tokyo was about 11.5 hours long and very smooth thankfully. No major issues to report other than swollen ankles. A neat feature of the restrooms here in Tokyo are the bedets. Even if I wanted to use it, I’m not sure I could follow the instruction for how it works. It had cleaning cycles, rinsing cycles, perfuming cycles…..who thought “it” could be so darn complicated.
Later,
KEG.
25 August 2007 5:10pm Tokyo time (4:10am EST; 4:10pm China time)
So far so good. We have made it to Tokyo and are awaiting the final leg across to Beijing. The flight from Detroit to Tokyo was about 11.5 hours long and very smooth thankfully. No major issues to report other than swollen ankles. A neat feature of the restrooms here in Tokyo are the bedets. Even if I wanted to use it, I’m not sure I could follow the instruction for how it works. It had cleaning cycles, rinsing cycles, perfuming cycles…..who thought “it” could be so darn complicated.
Later,
KEG.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Travel Approval and Plans at last!
Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God!
We finally have travel approval and the flights are booked. Our departure is set for Friday August 24 (at 6:05am). We do not know where we are staying yet, but maybe we will find out Monday. We are all ready to "go with the flow" as is often mentioned when preparing for this grand adventure. To say we are excited is the mother of all understatements. If you ask me, we cannot get there soon enough and hold our Kate soon enough either. After so many months waiting, it is finally becoming a reality. Our family is so ready to welcome its newest member and the support we have received from our family and friends has been something that we will always cherish.
As we travel, we will update the blog periodically and share as much as we can during this joyous process. Please keep us in your prayers and keep those that we leave behind (little Z-money ie. Zach) especially. It will be a long two weeks without my best little buddy, but when we return it will be a great event.
God bless to all.
Kyle.
We finally have travel approval and the flights are booked. Our departure is set for Friday August 24 (at 6:05am). We do not know where we are staying yet, but maybe we will find out Monday. We are all ready to "go with the flow" as is often mentioned when preparing for this grand adventure. To say we are excited is the mother of all understatements. If you ask me, we cannot get there soon enough and hold our Kate soon enough either. After so many months waiting, it is finally becoming a reality. Our family is so ready to welcome its newest member and the support we have received from our family and friends has been something that we will always cherish.
As we travel, we will update the blog periodically and share as much as we can during this joyous process. Please keep us in your prayers and keep those that we leave behind (little Z-money ie. Zach) especially. It will be a long two weeks without my best little buddy, but when we return it will be a great event.
God bless to all.
Kyle.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Referral Pictures!!
We would like to introduce (again) Lei Yi Qing. Now for the real juicy stuff...her specs.
As of May 11, 2007:
Height: 71cm (27.9")
Weight: 8.8kg (19.4lb)
Head Circum: 45cm (17.7")
Chest Circum: 46cm (18.1")
We also received a fairly thorough evaluation of her development and personality. To be quite honest, it is hard to pay too much attention to it when all you want to do is stare at the pictures and memorize are little pudgy crease. When we come down off cloud nine and really study the evaluation, we will try to share some of the interesting traits that could mimic current members of the household (active, restless, etc.) Thanks to all for caring and praying. This has been a long time coming, but feels more like the beginning than it ever did during the wait. Ta ta until later.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
At long last.....
Well, it has finally happened! Although we have not known who she was specifically, she has been in our thoughts a prayers every day over the last 20 months and 2 days.
Here is what we know tonight.
Lei Yi Qing
Born: June 18, 2006
Leizhou Social Welfare Institute
Guangdong Province
(Leizhou is near the southern most tip of China)
The referral package should arrive at our agency tomorrow and we will head to their office to learn more about our precious gift. If I can fight through the emotions, I hope to have some pictures posted tomorrow night.
Now after all this waiting, what do we do now? I'm sure we will come up with something ;-)
Here is what we know tonight.
Lei Yi Qing
Born: June 18, 2006
Leizhou Social Welfare Institute
Guangdong Province
(Leizhou is near the southern most tip of China)
The referral package should arrive at our agency tomorrow and we will head to their office to learn more about our precious gift. If I can fight through the emotions, I hope to have some pictures posted tomorrow night.
Now after all this waiting, what do we do now? I'm sure we will come up with something ;-)
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Tic, Toc, Tic, Toc.....
The clock continues to tick and we are getting ever so close to the big day! It's hard to believe that in less than two weeks (hopefully). We will be holding a picture of our new addition. By then I may know how to load up a picture or two to share.
Good luck and God bless to all out there.
Good luck and God bless to all out there.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Another year has creeped past waiting to be united with our daughter. Everytime it seemed there was a glimmer of hope for speeding up, another sparse month of referrals was issued. Now, it looks like the time will actually hit within the next two months. I'm not sure what to make of the whole process, but just know that when we receive the referral there will be much elation. We have a Nov. 8, 2005 LID and the CCAA has processed (we hope) to Nov 1, 2005 for the May batch. That is assuming information from other families/blogs holds true to form.
For any new folks to the process, I pray for you because it seems the wait will continue to increase for quite so time more. I try to balance getting excited with the pending referral and patience because you never know what the CCAA will do from month to month.
This has definitely been a test of patience and accepting God's will for our lives. Good luck to anyone else out there in the process.
KEG.
For any new folks to the process, I pray for you because it seems the wait will continue to increase for quite so time more. I try to balance getting excited with the pending referral and patience because you never know what the CCAA will do from month to month.
This has definitely been a test of patience and accepting God's will for our lives. Good luck to anyone else out there in the process.
KEG.
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