Well, it is hard to believe that we are packed and leaving to come home in just 7 hours. It has been an amazing journey and I am so thankful to God, the People's Republic of China, and the CCAA (China Center for Adoption Affairs) for entrusting Abigail in my care. My agency, FTIA has been amazing both on the US side as well as their China staff! Tracy and Judy as well as the other coordinators who joined us were the best! Finally, to my family whose support and encouragement have meant the world to me! I couldn't have done this without you and I am so glad you all will share in this joy! As I mentioned in my Gotcha Day post, we all believe my Dad has helped bring my children home. I feel such a sense of peace here in China as well as I did when I was in Vietnam in 1998 adopting Emily. Many of the Asian men resemble my Dad as he was very ill with cancer. I see that withered look in many of the men's faces here and they remind me of my Dad! To me it is comforting and a reminder that he is still watching over us! I think he would be very proud! I didn't know the meaning of the name Abigail when I first selected it but come to find out it means "gift of the father."
Today, we went to the US consulate office in Guangzhou and obtained the baby's Visa. We are free and clear to bring her home! It was a wonderful sense of relief knowing we cleared the last hurdle! I can't wait to see my family but also a little sad that this is coming to an end. This group of people we traveled with have been so much fun! Life long friendships have been made as an added bonus to these wonderful babies! I am going to miss our late night Internet parties and shopping with the girls, especially Tommy and Lucy! We can't wait to shop with you again in Chinatown when we come to NYC. I am sure the shopkeepers are going to miss us too! Even Lucy came over to hug us all good-bye and wish us a safe journey home!
Our group met for dinner at Lucy's diner and had yet another meal of western food! We have all hugged each other and said our good-byes but really it is just the beginning!
Thanks for all the prayers and emails and I can't wait to fill you in on Abigail's journey home!
I will see you soon on the "Home Update" page! Thanks to Tina for doing such a spectacular job keeping my friends and family in the loop! We wish your family a safe journey to Tabi!
Love,
Kathy, Emily, and Abigail
Okay, so maybe Emily will need a baby-sitting class!
