Wednesday, September 27, 2006

Good-bye Guangzhou

This is our favorite shop, and shopkeeper, Stella. We took our laundry here, and she quickly knew all of our names, and relationships -- quite a feat, considering the number of people here. (I just realized I look like a giant beside her!)



Yesterday, before our consulate appointment, we spent some more time exploring Sha Mian Island. This park along the river was full of people dancing, singing, practicing Tai Chi, and enjoying the beautiful day.







My mom thought this sign was funny:



Doug and Katie made some new friends at the park.





We were not allowed to bring electronic equipment to the consulate yesterday. I wish I could have captured it, though. The American official who administered the oath was very nice, and the experience was both more formal, and more touching then I expected. There were at least 50 American families with Chinese babies. We all raised our right hands, and swore that the information we had given during the adoption process was true. I got a little choked up, and then it was over. (Of course, when we raised our right hands, Zoe started giving us high fives).

Tomorrow, we travel by high speed train to Hong Kong (or as Sean calls it, King Kong). We are all a little sad to be leaving the mainland, and ending this amazing adventure. We have had so many wonderful experiences here. I have no idea if I will have a chance to post again before we leave. Thank you to everyone who has followed our journey. Your comments and e-mails have been one of the highlights of our trip. We can't wait to see everyone!

7 Comments:

At 6:10 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

lisa & Jerri

Your three kids and your story is and will be incrediable. Have a safe trip HOME.
Jack

 
At 7:25 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Our family has really enjoyed your journey in China. The first thing I do when I get home from work, is check the computer to see if there is any new stories and pictures of your family. Please keep us updated on Zoe and keep sending us pictures of the family. We hope to come to Florida soon to meet Zoe. Love, The Woods

 
At 10:29 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am thrilled things have gone so smoothly for all of you (what would life be without a few hitches to make it memorable?). My prayers are with you for a safe return and patience for the journey. Blessings and peace, Suzanne

 
At 10:31 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

We have all enjoyed reading about your adventures everyday. What a great story! We can't wait to meet Zoe. She sure seems to be happy with all of you. Have a safe trip home. Godspeed!

 
At 7:29 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

'Just when I think there will be no more 'weepy' parts, I open the blog and slobber all over myself. Zoe's story is beautiful - and I thank you for sharing it with all of us. Continued joy and safe travel.
LOVE!!!!!
Sandy and Grandma Gertie

 
At 7:52 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

It is Friday morning - tonight the whole Varon Family will come HOME. Although we won't be there physically to welcome you, please know that we WILL be there in spirit - so 'feel the love'. To Lisa, Jerry, Doug, Katie, Kathy, Joe, Marie, Linda, Don and boys - WELCOME BACK; to Zoe and Molli - WELCOME HOME!
Love, hugs and kisses -
Sandy and Grandma Gertie

 
At 7:53 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Just catching up... It sounds like your last couple of days were wonderfully vacation-like, outside of the official stuff. I imagine you are on your way back by now, and we look forward to seeing your whole family.

 

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