Once we figured out how to get a taxi to Shaiman Island, I thought we were set. Until after a few minutes of driving, the cabbie pulled over, turned around, and decided to play a game of charades with Scott...with sound effects. (I like games and all...just not in a cab in the middle of Guangzhou). After three of four incorrect guesses, we finally realized he was trying to tell us there was an accident at the bridge up ahead and could he drop us off at the overpass? Oh sure, why not.
By this time, it was about 11 am and as we got out of the car and tried to find a road connecting over to the island, the sky was pitch black due to an approaching storm. All the cars had their lights on and I could barely see in front of me. 11 in the morning, pitch black, a storm is coming, and we have no idea where we are. Nice, huh?
After finally finding a connecting road, we hurried over to the island just as the skies let loose. Now at least we knew where we were, we were just soaked. We finished up the morning by finding the rest of the souvenirs that we had wanted (everything except an umbrella, that is), having lunch at Lucy's, and then heading home to dry out before our consulate appointment.
At the consulate, we took our oath testifying that all the information we provided the US government was true and that was it! We are now done! We leave the hotel at 6 am (5 pm eastern time on Thursday) and spend the next 29 hours in airplanes and airports. And when the nice man at the Newark airport stamps Lia's visa on our arrival into the US, she becomes a citizen of the United States of America. How cool is that?
These last few pictures show from last Monday when we first met her compared to Lia tonight as we leave China for home. What a mighty work the Lord has done in her little heart these past two weeks.
What an amazing difference in the precious smile on her face. God is doing a mighty work and I'm so glad you are getting to experience the joy He is working in her little life!
ReplyDeleteCONGRATULATIONS!
We're praying for an easy trip for all of you. As Lia goes through another major transition we're praying for the Lord to comfort her little heart. She is the sweetest thing ever!
ReplyDeleteWhat a mighty work the Lord has done indeed!!! So exciting to see the pictures next to one another to witness to the fact. You are now on a plane, hopefully somewhere over the Pacific Ocean, and how I pray your bodies will adjust to the time change without too many sleepless nights(among other things)! I am sure you kids back home are anxiously awaiting your arrival and I look forward to seeing a picture of the Taylor family of 7! What a blessing - praise God!
ReplyDeleteOur refrigerator now resembles a photo gallery of sweet little Chinese girls :-) The dc have printed Lia pictures and added them to the collection of Jada and Lydia photos that were already there! They're counting down the days until we all meet Lia. Wishing you a restful trip home!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Gina
Angela you're so funny..and so adventurous..yeah..:) Love the Then and Now photos of Lia. She's so sweet. Praying for safe and smooth travel home. It's been so wonderful watching your journey. Lia, your beauty will light up the shores of America. Welcome Little Lia. Lisa A
ReplyDeletewow you hav ebeen so blessed with the amount of change you have had so far. Have a great trip Home. Can't wait to get home updates
ReplyDeleteScott and Angela,
ReplyDeleteSeeing Lia's smile just melts one's heart! She is so precious! And what an adventure (cab rides, etc.) to end your time in China. I had to laugh! We've really enjoyed reading all your posts. Hopefully by now you're nearing the end of your long flight(s) home and will all be united soon. Looking forward to seeing you and meeting little Lia!
Blessings to you,
Lisa Smith
What a beautiful transformation. Can't wait to see the photos of her with the kids. I bet they are over the mooon!
ReplyDeleteAmy