Today started out with the family heading over to the government visa building to get Alexis her first passport. As is becoming the norm, they were not ready for us and we feared we might not make our afternoon flight to Guangzhou. Fortunately, the passport was completed and we were on time for our 2:15 plane ride. As you can imagine we, along with many others, were glad to be heading to our next stop on the tour. The true feeling was that it would be one step closer to coming home.
Considering it was the first flight for Alexis, she did very well. A little antsy but a real trooper. What was really entertaining was Rachelle having to do the first diaper change on the plane while also having to use the restroom herself; multitasking at its best. After landing and a 40 minute bus ride, we arrived at our 5-star hotel, where we will stay for the next 6 days. After just a few hours, it is apparent that 5-star means, western food options, plenty of shopping, and air conditioning (soft beds not included). Probably the best part is the view that we have from our room. We are on the 14th floor and are overlooking a waterway that is the focus of what makes this city so interesting. According to our travel guide, this was China’s first major seaport. Europeans first started to arrive back in the early 1500’s, and ever since, has been known as a sort of Gateway to the world for China.
Our first meal in town was a dinner that consisted of a Caesar salad, sweet and sour chicken, and onion rings; fine dining at its best. We are half way through the process and could not have made it this far with out the support of our family and friends as well as the network of other parents (and new friends) we met on this trip adopting a little girl/boy. There is a common bond that we all share and it has truly been a great help getting through some of the difficult times.
While we wish we could be coming home sooner, we are cherishing every moment with Alexis Marie. Being in this environment really allows you that quality time needed to bond with our daughter. The feeling we have every morning when we see her smiling at us is priceless. We are truly blessed.
Join us back on Sunday for the next update of our weekend ventures in Guangzhou.
Love,
Kevin, Rachelle & Alexis
P.S. – Meg, Alexis wanted to thank you for letting her borrow some of your outfits for her trip.
