Thursday, March 20, 2008

Visa, Farewell party and Homecoming

This is the final post from the Guangzhou branch. Yesterday we hit the leather market in the morning (four buildings full of purses, wallets, belts, etc.) and had fun bargaining on a few gifts. The quality of some of the knock-offs is amazing. Getting back proved to be the most challenging part of this adventure since we had to stand in the middle of a crazy street and fight for a cab. It seems to help to be big and have a baby strapped to you.

In the afternoon we made a short but important trip to the US Consulate. All of the babies received their official visas to travel to the US. The babies with both parents here get an IR-3 visa and they will become US citizens upon arrival in the US. Naomi gets an IR-4 Visa and won't officially be a citizen until we complete formal adoption paperwork in the US. We can do that about 6 months after getting back to California.

Last night we had our farewell party with the entire group. The China team led the way with rice wine and karaoke. They also had cute gifts for the girls (pearl necklace and jade piece for luck). It was a nice way to wrap up the trip. Today we just get packed and then head to the airport around 4pm. Our flight doesn't leave until 9pm but we need to get our seat assignments and make our way through customs. We are very happy to be headed home. Can't wait to see you all! Grant, Shelby and Naomi...