Day 13 (Going Home)

I don't know exactly how many times we said it during the day, but the theme was certainly "Can you believe we're finally going home?" It was the day we most looked forward to, but certainly dreaded as well. I remember wishing we had that remote in "Click" with Adam Sandler to skip the flights!

The day was unbelievably hectic and exhausting. The hotel adjoins the airport, which was nice. That was the last thing has was enjoyable for a solid hour and a half. The exit row we had paid extra to get was no longer available to us because of Lacey (on infants in the exit row). The seats were seriously the one thread we were hanging on for a sane trip. We knew they would allow Lacey to get down and walk around, and even sleep on he floor. We were both legitimately on the verge of tears. Add to that a long line at exit customs (really dumb line), an even longer security line, 4 more escalators, a run by a crazy crowded McDonalds, a train ride, and another walk to the gate, the trip wasn't starting well. And then, things began to brighten. Anne Wu from United seriously worked for 30 minutes to improve our seating. She got us two bulkhead seats, which were even better than the exit row! Our spirits perked up. The kind folks tried to pry it away, as we had to go through security plane-side, and throw out the water and Starbucks we just bought. What?? And they also pulled some king of ninja move whereby they managed to steal our stroller. I hope they enjoy it!

So we got in our seats, thought about the poor guy sitting with us, and settled in for the next 15.5 hours. The guy sitting with us was awesome. He played peek-a-boo with Lacey on command. He talked to her, smiled at her, laughed with her. Better than the awkward, Skill Level: Expert staring we had become accustomed to.

76 years later, we landed. And those years can only be explained this way - God most definitely answers prayer. You may not believe that, but this trip is proof in my mind. The girl that wigged out and couldn't sit still was really good for the most part. Aside from a few small incidents, she was no problem. It was a lot of work, but we kept her occupied. She slept about 4-5 hours of the trip, which was pure gold. The great fear was relieved; the burden past. Thanks be to the Lord!!

I can't begin to say how great it was to see "Welcome to the USA!" We went through the Newark airport and hit customs. And, just like that, Lacey was a US citizen! We claimed our bags (where we came to realize the ninja-theft of the stroller) and rechecked them. Then, it was off to our last leg of the trip.

I'm not comfortable sharing what I wanted to do when I saw a sign that said, regarding our flight, "Scheduled-5:20; Delayed-8:45." It involved breaking things. I wanted to keep it from Cindy, but I couldn't. In it together, right? The look on her face broke my heart. So I went to a gate to see what I could do. And another incredible airline employee saved the day. A flight was leaving at 5:35 (delayed from 3). But there was a long standby list already. I told her our plight, and I could literally see the compassion in her face. She found two seats from somewhere, and gave us the LAST TWO SEATS on the flight! Nothing but another miracle and answer to prayer.

Lacey was, um, wired. Too little sleep, too much travel, and she was like a Tasmanian devil. So, yeah, not too excited about a 2 hour flight with tight seats! But, again, another unbelievable thing happened. We gave Lacey a snack after takeoff, and she actually fell asleep while eating them. Too cute! She slept until we were about 5 minutes out. Amazing! When we touched down and heard, "Welcome to Charlotte," I could tell what was coming. I was already emotional. I whispered in Lacey's ear, "No more planes, trains, busses, and hotels. You're home, sweetie." We walked off the plane, quickly stopped by the bathroom to freshen up, and walked to the baggage claim.

The next several minutes were a blur. I don't think I'll be able to talk about it for a long time without tearing up. With Lacey in my arm and my rock by my side, we hit the escalator. First, I saw my nephew Andrew. Then, I saw our friend Beth Skates. Then, everyone saw us and erupted in cheers. Then, I saw Lexi - and it was over. I'm actually crying while I type this! All the stress and drama seemed to rush out to be replaced by pure joy. She ran over to us, followed by Ava. I cried like a baby. It was such a great moment. Seeing our parents, my sister, my sisters-in-law, my brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, and great friends was more than I could emotionally cope with. I'll never forget it.

Lacey didn't cry. She looked around at everyone, and was a little unsure, but she did fine. After hugs, kisses, and handshakes, (and one lost bag form), we walked out to the car to head home. Home!!! Lacey was put into a car seat for the first time and pacified with a snack. I drove for the first time in two weeks, and had to make sure I didn't drive like the Chinese! We pulled up, walked in, and our trip was finally over.

What a journey! One that has ended, only to be replaced by the daily challenges that await our family. I've already enjoyed seeing Lexi and Ava be so sweet to their little sister. The kindness of children is a treasure. I've said this before, but it will be said again. Cindy and I are so overwhelmed and thankful for all the support and encouragement we have received these last 16+ months. You all are so wonderful, and we cannot thank you enough. The body of Christ is a wonderful concept!! We rejoice in the faithfulness of God and the kindness of His people. Please continue to pray for us, and we hope to show off this family of 5 in the near future!! We love you all.

For the last time: Thanks for reading,
Daniel, Cindy, Lexi, Ava, and Lacey

Day 12 (Leaving China)

Our bags were packed, we were sitting in the hotel. Lacey had been clingy all day, maybe sensing a little bit of what was coming. We were leaving her homeland; ending one journey, beginning a new one.

The day was all about wrapping things up. Our last breakfast in China. Afterwards, I had to attend a wrap up meeting with the other families. We were given directions for the next day or so. Suffice it to say, my nervousness increased 100-fold! It seemed like the direction for Hong Kong had subsections, sub chapters, nested parenthesis, etc. So when I returned to our room, I didn't exactly do what my room card said, "Walk in the room like you own it." But I did offer to get McDonalds, so that has to mean something.

Then, we put Lacey down - she wasn't very interested in a nap! She was quite nervous, it seemed. Then, Cindy and I finished up packing, and she ran off to get Starbucks. We approached the elephant in the room, "So, how are we going to handle a 15.5 hour flight??" It was like a knot in our stomachs.

But that was before the first mini-trip. We got the final document at 4:30, Lacey's visa to enter the US. And, with that, we said goodbye to our new friends. It was more emotional than we expected. We walked out, got into the bus, and went to the train station.

The train station consisted of the following: escalators, escalators, waiting, lines, more waiting, more escalators, more escalators, and then boarding. We sat in our seats for a few minutes, and then we said goodbye to China. The train ride itself gave us more of an opportunity to see China, the not-so-fancy parts. As in every part of the world, it seems surreal to leave a 5-star hotel and then see utter poverty. The ride went well until about 30 minutes remained, and Lacey went full-on ballistic. It was "challenging." Thankfully, there wasn't a Daniel-shaped hole in the train, or I might have used it!

We hit Hong Kong, and were immediately excited to enjoy a few annoying lines and unexpected forms to fill out for our lengthy, 10-hour stay in the country. We were further excited to discover we had about 50 minutes to get to the hotel - woot! I will say this, though, Hong Kong is seriously cool at night. The buildings looked awesome, the lighting very unique. We were in for further delight when we arrived at the hotel and were encountered by a crowd in the lobby roughly the size of a small country. But we made it through okay, put Lacey in bed, and spent our last evening outside of America. The elephant in the room had grown. We were genuinely afraid, and borderline freaking out. Cindy went downstairs to use the Internet (it cost money to use it in your room). She let some folks know about the elephant on Facebook, and we immediately were encouraged by the responses.

And, with that, we went to bed quite apprehensive, but incredibly excited to head home.

Thanks for reading,
Daniel

Day 11 (Visa Ceremony)

So today was the day - the big kahuna. This was the day we visited the US Consulate and gave all of the necessary paperwork for Lacey to become a US citizen! And, overall, it was just a great day.

Lots of twists and turns in the day. First of all, we had to wake up early (6:00) in order to get ready, eat breakfast, and hit the lobby at 7:40 for the bus trip to the Consulate. We went with two other Holt families and about 10 families from other agencies. First things first - this typhoon thing ain't playing. We had on and off torrential rains and hefty wind gusts. But it didn't dampen our spirits as we went to the Consulate. The waiting and lack of reliable A/C certainly gave a solid effort, though. What's the deal with all the waiting? But, anyway, it was really awesome to see the American flag for the first time in a while. They took us all in a room (no food, cameras, or strollers??? allowed) had us take an oath swearing to the accuracy of our documents, and then called families up one-by-one to process paperwork. After the waiting, the actual important stuff was very quick, and we were on our way back to the hotel by 9:30.

So, with the typhoon thing and all, we figured today would be the best day to venture off on our own to a crowded, 7-story market. In other words, seven stories of cheaply made, sure to break quickly rubbish. My sister Naomi would have been in Heaven! The taxi dropped us off at kind of an odd location, as we both got a nice dousing and buffeting from the rain and wind. We bought a few things, mostly toys for the dreaded plane ride home. We passed on the 2 foot high naked Buddha statues. The taxi ride home was fine; we did get jumped in line by a guy who then offered the taxi back to us. Nice and unexpected.

I walked over to McDonalds to get our lunch and ran into someone we've been looking for for several days. You see, this guy offered to give us a certain antihistamine for the trip home, but we haven't seen him in a few days. His father-in-law happened to be at McDonalds at the same time as me. Coincidence? I think not!! So he gave his daughter's room number. This led, somewhat predictably, to the Worst Moment of the Day. After much deliberation about who should go, we went together. Cindy knocked, all seemed unnervingly still, and then a half-asleep man opened the door. We offered to come back, but he sleepily brought the stuff, poured it into our little cup, then closed the door to our perfuse apologies. So, to sum up, we woke him (and maybe his wife and new daughter) up and sponged his Benadryl. Score!

During Lacey's nap, I hit up Starbucks. After nap time, we had one last local meal together. We were supposed to go on a Pearl River dinner cruise, but it was cancelled due to the weather - bummer:( But the meal was great! Spicy noodles, pork vermicelli, and fried rice to split three ways. It was all delicious, and Lacey did great. After dinner, we walked around, played in the now back in order Kiddy Land, and came back up for our last night in Guangzhou.

And we proceeded to have almost a dream night with little Lacey. After having seen her point at both of us and call us Mommy and Daddy today, she played so sweetly. She did great for her bath. She said please and thank you several times. She learned how to blow kisses. She gave us kisses. She ate her snack without whining. She was so sweet to Lexi during our Face Time chat. All-in-all, the best nighttime ritual. yet, easily.

It was great to surprise my mom and dad by calling them from the cell phone we had rented. I enjoyed talking to them and just hearing their voices! Can't believe how clear it sounded with no delay!

And now Lacey's in bed, and we're spending our last night here. Tomorrow, we start the journey home - first to Hong Kong for a night, then on to Newark/Charlotte. It's starting to feel real. We're heading home!! Our lives will be very different, but we just can't wait to start this new chapter.

To all of you that read these blogs, all that have prayed, all that support us, you mean so much. That so many would be so interested and involved has so moved and humbled us. We can't wait to get Lacey home and show her how much she is loved by so many.

From the bottom of my heart, thanks for reading...and caring,
Daniel

Day 10 (Free Day)

Another free day for us - seems like a lot of those lately! It wasn't for everyone, though. Those adopting children 2+ years had to go back to he medical clinic to see the results of a TB test.

We had decided to head to Shamian Island today, and booked a cab with Jim & Alberta and their girl Bella. So six of us plus the driver in a car! That's how you save money! Funny, though - our 15+ minute, 5 km drive set us back about $3. Yes, $3 each way - hilarious!

The island was different than we expected. Much more beautiful architecture than what we had seen before. It actually looked a lot like Charleston, SC. Much shopping was to be had, and had it was. I am now the proud owner of a genuine, authentic, fake Omega watch! It was the exact one I wanted before I even came to China, so that was nice. Cindy got a beautiful scarf for herself, and then we picked up some gifts to take home. Lots of walking, lots of haggling, and a nice time with new friends. Lacey had the opportunity of a lifetime, too. She could have had her picture taken at a fairly famous spot there, which you'll see below. It's kind of a thing that adopting parents do. Lacey wanted nothing to do with it. As another man posted on his blog, we could have a nice high school graduation collage picture on our hands!

Lunch ended up being its own story. We figured we might as well eat there, but kind of thought going to the Subway would be a wimp out. So we asked a shop owner (same guy that did our laundry a few days ago), and he "directed" us to a place called Lucy's. It has more American fare than other places (for example the restaurants we passed with pictures of entire cooked chickens, head and all). So, following his directions, we meandered around for about 20+ minutes. We asked people where it was, and apparently they thought we had two heads. FINALLY, we found it. It was at the exact spot we started looking!! We passed right by it. Crazy! So we had a nice lunch, dropped by 7-11 for some items, and took a cab back.

During Lacey's nap, I finished a book, watched Adam Scott blow the British Open, I intentionally acted obnoxious, and then made unintentionally strong coffee. We had leftover Papa Johns and some items pilfered from breakfast buffet for Lacey.

After dinner, we hit the pool for close to an hour. It was a really nice time! Lacey still isn't quite sure, but she did better. It was raining a little towards the end, but not bad. It was noticeably cooler today - real feel temp was "only" about 99. It's probably because Typhoon #8 is headed this way. Oh, did I not mention that? Typhoon #8 is supposed to hit shore in south China tonight into tomorrow. Our only affect is supposed to be 25 mph winds and a few inches of rain. As of now, it doesn't look like it should affect our train ride to Hong Kong or the flight out.

After the pool, it was bath time, play time, Face Time, then (abruptly) bed time. While Lacey has come a long way in one week, it is still a challenge from time-to-time. As always, Cindy and I lean on each other and press on. We are certainly beginning to appreciate and understand the enormity of the challenges ahead of us on Thursday. First, the flight. Oh, the flight! Then, she is certainly going to be fairly nervous with all the new faces. We pray everyone understands that if she cries when she sees you, don't take it personally - we didn't! If she doesn't want you to hold her, please know it takes time. Sometimes, she doesn't want one of US to hold her! It will just take time. To our families and friends - you are her family and friends, too! Just give her the time to figure that out.

Tomorrow, we will see the American flag as we visit the US Consulate to do something we aren't exactly clear on! Tomorrow is our last full day in Guangzhou! Then, off to Hong Kong, and then home. I miss everything about it. It has really brought me to respect my brother even more, who has to leave his home for weeks at a time to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And all of the comforts we miss have brought us to respect our brothers and sisters that have gone into the mission field. Their sacrifice is great, as will be their reward in Glory.

We love you all do much. Thanks for joining us on this journey!

Thanks, as always, for reading,
Daniel

Day 9 (Free Day)

Today was a scheduled free day. It was what we might consider USA day, more details on that as we go.

After another astoundingly awesome breakfast, we decided to check out the hotel amenities. First up was the indoor playground, which had a most (un)welcome "out of order" sign on the door. Seriously, bro? When it's 78 bagillion degrees outside you want to pull that stunt? So we played for approximately 11 minutes on the outdoor swings and slide until we were gasping for breath. Lacey wasn't a big fan of the swing. She thought the slide was OK since we helped her down. It was just us, though - we kind of wanted to see her play with other kids. Then we checked out the outdoor pool, which looks great. We'll be hitting that for the next few days, I hope.

Then, it was time for a trip home. We went to *sniff* Starbucks! Then *full blown weeping* we went to McDonalds!!! And *hysterical blubbering* IT ALL TASTED RIGHT!! Thank You, Lord! It felt a little like home - except we ordered a cup of corn for Lacey. Corn at McDonalds? What's the world coming to?

After a nice nap, we met a bunch of other folks to take a trip to the jade and pearl wholesale markets. Time to get yo' bargaining hat on! I got completely ripped off. No, just joking. We got a nice little jade piece for Cindy's charm bracelet. They opened at 30 RMB, so we took a lap and came back. Different person running the table, and he started at 100. Huh?? So I offered 20. He said 60. I said 20. He said OK. Not bad for about $3. Then We got a few cheap (read: practically free) DVD's before hitting the pearl market.

We wanted to get Lacey a string for later in life, maybe her 16th birthday or something. First shop wanted $50 for a pretty lousy strand and wouldn't go below $45. For a much better strand, the next shop wanted 200 RMB and settled for 180 (less than $30). Lemme think. So with our stuff in hand, we walked out happy.

Got back to the hotel in time to wait 40 minutes for laundry to show up. Wretched traffic! Great deal, though. Two huge bags of a week's clothing for three people came to about $22. While I waited, Cindy ordered...wait for it...wait for it...Papa John's pizza!! We had that, Pepsi, and even a couple of Oreos. Nice day for American taste buds!

Lacey continues to get better with us. She tries to get away with murder, but she's starting to realize that isn't going to happen anymore. She even said "please" and "thank you" some today! Lots and lots of laughs, peek-a-boos, tickle fests, and kisses to go around. She loves it when she does something really good which gets Mommy and Daddy to clap and say "Yay, Lacey!!" So, so cute. Considering we've been with her less than a week, she's doing great. She just needs to get home, see what structure and scheduling is, and start to interact with her sisters. I really feel Lexi and Ava are going to help out so much in getting her adjusted. One of the real highlights of the past few days has been seeing Lexi and Lacey play peek-a-boo thousands of miles apart! Oh, and the "tooth picture" below is always hilarious when we Face Time with Lexi!

Tomorrow, we are heading out early to Shamian Island to do some more substantial shopping. We hope to get some things for our two sweeties at home (and a replica Omega watch for yours truly).

We're missing church for the second straight Sunday, which brings us both great sadness. Next Sunday, it will be SUCH a joy to remember the Lord Jesus with His people!! As long as Lacey isn't a handful, of course. Enjoy your day!

Thanks for reading,
Daniel

P.S. I want to just point out one of life's annoying little things. When you wash your hands with bar soap instead of liquid, how annoying is it when chunks of the soap get stuck on your wedding ring? AM I RIGHT, PEOPLE??