Today was a busy day. We started the day at the 6 Banyan Tree Buddist Temple. It was a peaceful oasis in the middle of the busy city. They did a Buddist blessing of the babies which was pretty cool, although we have no idea what was said during the blessing. Afterwards we came back for more shopping and lunch.
The big event was issuing the visa and taking the oath at the US consulate. There were about 50 families with us (from many different agencies). One at a time each family had to go up to the window and they looked at copies of our passports and D's passport and determined we were the people on the passports. Then we waited while they checked everyone else. After everyone's identity was verified, we all stood and took the oath that everything we said on our paperwork was true. Then they issued the visa and immigration packet to us. It was a surprisingly emotional moment. So we now have yet another packet of paperwork that we can't lose (or even open) before we get to the US. It is in a sealed envelope and is to be opened only by the immigration officer. i wish we could have taken pictures during the event- but camera (and every other electrnic device) are banned by the government (the US government just to be clear)
The kids ended our trip with more food from Danny's Bagels. D really loves mac and cheese!!! That's my girl.
Our flight is scheduled to arrive home at 9pm- Hopefully we will see some of you there or in the near future.
Well, this has been a most amazing journey and while I am ready to come home, I am sad to see it end. China is a truly amazing place. Our next post will be from HOME!!!!! We hope you enjoyed following our journey and check back as we will continue to update as we work with the cleft team at the hospital and throughout D's surgery process.
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