Another day of waiting……

The VISA applications have been completed and they will be delivered to the US Consulate on Wednesday. So today was another day of waiting.

We got up early and went to breakfast. We are fast learning why the White Swan is a favorite for adoptive parents. The breakfast buffet is wonderful. So good that we have been able to skip lunch for the past two days! Last evening we ate at the White Swan BBQ Buffet. BBQ to Chinese has a little different meaning than in the US. The BBQ is just an open flame cook top that is located outside. For about $25 US we feasted on beef tender loin, spare ribs, beef kabobs, lamb, and a dozen or so varieties of fish, all cooked to order over an open flame. The list of side dishes and deserts is too long to mention.

We sat outside over looking the river. There was a light breeze and the temperature was just right, not too cool and not too hot. For a moment it actually felt like we were on vacation! Just as we finished our meal, the laser show started across the river (a nightly ritual in this resort town). The Chinese love anything bright and flashing. We have seen more neon lights that Las Vegas ever dreamed of!

After breakfast we took a tour to visit a Buddhist Temple, a government run shopping mall, and the House of Chen. I think we got carried away with pictures of the architecture and art work. We wrapped up the evening with a group dinner at the Cow and Bridge Thai Restaurant. Again, we had another splendid meal.

We miss everyone very much, especially our boys! We think and talk about them all the time. When ever the “Grandma Police” stops us on the street to inquire about Eliza, we whip out the pictures of Slaton and Shipley. Every vendor that has invited us into their shop knows about Slaton and Shipley.

Tomorrow we present Eliza and her immunization registry for a medical exam. The exam is required before a Visa can be issued. On Wednesday, we have to wait in our rooms while the Visa Applications are reviewed by the Consulate (just in case there are any questions that we need to answer).

Some people have asked us which is worse, natural child birth or adopting a child. Our answer: Both are wonderful experiences and the reward of having and holding a child is worth all the pains and trials. One thing that both share is plenty of waiting!

Only four more days! The count down is on.