Thanks so much for visiting us during our journey, Steve, Allison, Sean, Megan, Ryan and Katelyn!
July 1, 2008
An invisible red thread connects those who are destined
to meet regardless of time, place or circumstance.
The thread may stretch or tangle, but will never break.
-An Ancient Chinese Belief
The last breakfast was as good as the first at the White Swan, perhaps a little better since it would also be the last day before returning home. We bought a set of 4 books that are picture books with the English and Chinese words related to the images. Katelyn was thrilled to be able to point to pictures and saw the Chinese word for it, while we would point and say the English version. She often immediately repeated what we said without difficulty (I wish I could say the same for us trying to speak Chinese). She really seemed happy to be able to better communicate with us, and she is using her own version of sign language. Mom is getting kisses, "nose kisses", a hug, and an enthusiastic "high-five" after going potty!
After the late morning abundance of smiles, she showed her other side after a nap while getting ready for the consulate appointment. She was not happy. She felt a little better after getting dressed, having pony tails in her hair, and having her nails painted again. The US Consulate appointment was the same as for Ryan, but there were more boys this time. As approximately 100 parents took an oath on behalf of their new children, many babies were crying to help celebrate the moment. Katelyn will become an official US Citizen when her visa is stamped at customs in the Detroit airport upon returning home.
After a final dinner at Lucy's Diner with hamburgers and grilled cheese, and a late evening swim, Katelyn and Sean crashed while mom and dad finished repacking the suitcases for home (with a bottle of Great Wall red wine). We weren't able to go on the night river boat cruise, but we enjoyed the evening anyway. Katie is more comfortable with the pool now, especially throwing the beach ball at her brother Sean (he was a great sport).
Sean fell asleep before typing his days thoughts (now that's a full day)...so he will need to catch up tomorrow. We should arrive home around 5:00pm Wednesday, and after an all American meal, we hope to find a few minutes to email the days events...if not we will send it out Thursday morning.
That's it from China 2008....now for the 15 hours of plane rides!!!
