Homeward Bound!

Hi Again:

This will probably be the last entry from China, but maybe not the last entry for the blog. We'll likely provide pictures of how the trip ends at the airport and how our new life with Joey begins in Madison. We may send a note around noon if all systems are go but anything more than that update will be bad news.

Updates on the two big events for today. First, the important Consulate appointment to get Joey's visa into the USA. We received a call from our Guides that our paperwork was accepted. Now we cross our fingers that receiving Joey's visa goes smoothly. As we told you yesterday, the computers were down at the Consulate, so several families did not leave on time. Bummer. We're all a little anxious as there are no more hotel rooms available starting on Saturday, as this kicks off the bi-annual Electronics Trade Show in Guangzhou and it runs thru the end of April. Think positive thoughts for us if you would. We would REALLY, REALLY like to leave on time. (We will find out more tomorrow morning around 11 am.)

The other more interesting, but less important item of the day was the photo session on the famous "red couch". As you can see from the photos Joey was decked out in traditional male Chinese garb for the occasion. Probably won't ever wear that again or let us dress him in such attire.

Shopping was concluded and packing initiated today. Suitcase space occupied by food on the flight over is now occupied by some souvenirs and gifts on the flight back.

Tomorrow we will get up and eat at our final buffet. It has been our favorite meal. How many days in a row can you eat french toast and bacon...the answer is at least 16! We may make a couple last minute purchases, take a couple extra photos and repack.

We'll leave the hotel for our 2pm Consulate appointment after lunch. Immediately after the appointment the bus will take us and 8 other families to the airport. We'll leave Guangzhou at 9pm travel thru LA and Chicago and arrive in Madison at 7:30 am Saturday morning - hopefully! Wish us luck as we travel with a VERY ACTIVE little boy.

The trip will have ended but the adventure just begins. It will be fun to introduce Joey to our family, friends, his new home and Bagheera (his nanny told us he didn't care for furry stuffed animals) so that will be interesting.

Once we're all settled in and sure that Joey has once again adjusted to another major change in his life, we'd love to have you meet him.

Thanks for traveling along with us on this amazing journey!

The Kirschbaums