Leaving China and Entering Hong Kong

We are in a van, soon to cross the border into Hong Kong. It is bittersweet that we are another step closer to home. More on this later. First I will tell you about our day.

We had to check out by 2:00 but we could not leave until 5:00. By 11:00 we were packed and ready to go. We had the porter retrieve our luggage and store it until time to go.

We caught a taxi to Ikea. It was very similar to our Ikea just more compact. We ran into an American couple there and had a nice chat. They said you can lay on the beds there and take a nap if you want. We saw many people doing just that. People were sitting in the rooms hanging out and even using a display desk to work. Very different from the Ikea in the U.S.

For lunch we ordered 2 Meatball platters. Tasted very similar to home. Afterwards we went and got ice cream cones. They were .15 cents a piece. Let me tell you Alyssa loves her ice cream. She ate the whole thing and finished before Grace.

Across the street we saw a huge shopping mall so off we went. It was 3 stories high. Prices on things weren't bargains but I did find a few things.

About 3:00 we decided it was time to head back to the hotel. We are crossing the street and someone comes up behind us and says "Hi Julia and Grace." It was Elvin, our guide. We were near the U.S, Consulate, he was going to pick up the visas for our new children.

We believe God was looking out for us. We were a little concerned about catching a taxi in front of the consulate. It is a very busy place and Dallas is a bit passive. When Elvin heard we were headed to the hotel he immediately hailed us a taxi.

About 20 minutes later we arrived back at the hotel. We walked to 7 Eleven to get drinks and waited for Elvin.

Elvin arrived around 4:30 with Alyssa's visa. We went over everything and had to say our goodbyes. Elvin has been the most wonderful guide we have ever had. He has gone beyond the call of duty. Our time with him was very special. Of course I teared up when we said goodbye.

At this moment we are waiting in line to cross the border. What a journey it has been! It may sound like we have been on vacation but we are physically and emotionally drained. The last 2 weeks have been hard but so worth it.

I am in awe that God choose us to be Alyssa's family. Our girl's file was one that scared many people. This girl is amazing. She talks and sings constantly. She is happy 90% of the time. She loves life and is a joy to be around. We don't know what the future has in store for Alyssa but we will be with her every step of the way. I already feel that strong love for her that only a mother can feel for a child.

My only concern is that Alyssa has yet to grieve. An adopted child typically grieves all they have lost whether good or bad. We want her to grief so she can have a happy, healthy future.

Goodbye, China! Thank you for giving me two precious gifts! I am eternally grateful!