This afternoon was the swearing in ceremony at the US Consulate....The speaker, who actually approved all 30 families visa's said a few endearing words to us, congratulated us, and we took an oath swearing that all of the information we've submitted was true and accurate. It brought me to tears as we raised our right hands' as a group. What a miracle we have witnessed. There were 3 teens who were almost too old to get adopted that made the cut-off adoption age of 14. That was especially celebratory. Makes me want to come back to adopt a teen! When the children approach 'teen', they are no longer eligible for adoption. What happens to them? I am told they must work in the orphanage until they are old enough to go out on their own. In some cases, the unthinkable happens.
Tonight was the dinner cruise on the Pearl River. I really didn't want to go, but I knew most of the group was going, so I decided to join them. The food was interesting. Look real close and you'll see a chicken head! Also on the menu was boiled, salted pig's stomach... Let's just say when we got back to the hotel we ordered from Lucy's--an American food restaurant--and our bellies were full with comfort foods--sort of.
Only one more day in Guangzhou, Guys. My family will be united! Please pray for our travel. We will have traveled 24 hours by the time we get to Ron and the kids in New York's JFK. Then a 4 hour drive home, on a Friday, in NY! I can't imagine being on a plane--with Jace--who can't hear--or be reasoned with yet--for all of those hours!! We prayed so hard for Jace's heart to be prepared for our arrival here in China--and it was!!!!! Now let's pray for that arduous flight home!!! Oh, I can't WAIT for Jace to meet the rest of his family!!!!! It's SO exciting to be preparing for travel HOME!!!!!!!
Updates tomorrow!!
Love to All,
Shannon Pierro
