Hello!  Thank you for praying for Hannah.  She has been much better today, and so far the rest of us are ok, too.  Keep praying - in hopes that nothing hits between now and flying home Saturday. 

Today was the last full day in Guangzhou.  We started early so we could all head out for our meeting at the US Consulate.  Every family in our group took the "oath" at the same time.  We had to raise our right hand and swear that all of the information we gave to the US Consulate is true to the best of our knowledge.  Then we had some paperwork to look over and sign so Joshua can receive his visa tomorrow.  We should get that around 4, then we will take about a 3 hour ride to Hong Kong to spend the night and fly out Saturday morning.  We were going to take the train, but after talking to our agency rep, she said the van ride would be much easier and probably cheaper.  So, about 4 of us families are doing that instead of the train. 

We are excited about coming home to familiar surroundings, languages and faces; however, there are a couple of things I will miss about China.  First of all, the families that we have been priviledged to meet and share this journey with here.  We were put together - not by our adoption agency - but ultimately by a sovereign God who knows us all intimately and personally.  We were put together with people we had never met before to share one of the biggest events of our lives, and we are leaving as friends, forever bonded by this most amazing experience.  This reminds me again of how our Master Weaver works, every stitch is placed perfectly.  We are all looking forward to sharing emails and pictures in the coming months of how our children grow, develop and flourish in their new families.  Joshua, Jack, Anna, Allison, Tori and Larry are all going to new homes and new lives with families that are so thankful for the chance to raise them as their own.  I will also miss the comical chaos of watching the never ending traffic - not being in it, but watching it!  And I must be honest and admit I will miss the nice housekeeping lady that makes my bed and cleans my bathroom each day!  :-)   

I've looked at each of these children and families, wondering what God's purpose and plan is for each of us.  Why did he place Joshua with us, or Jack with Stephen and Jennifer?  Why was this child placed in our care?  What is it that they will learn from us that will fulfill their God given purpose in this life?  And what is it we will learn from them that will ultimately fulfill God's purpose for us as well?  That's where I have to seek God's guidance and instruction - just like I've tried to do with Hannah and Matthew (though I haven't always sought Him nearly as much as I should.)  I trust that God - the perfect parent - will lead as we seek Him for wisdom in all things.  I'm reminded of James' words - "If any of you lack wisdom He should ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to Him."  God will graciously give wisdom when I actively seek and ask Him for it. 

I'll have to pack up this computer tomorrow and don't know that I'll have a chance to post anymore from this side of the ocean.  I am in tears as this part of the journey comes to a close - tears of sadness, joy and excitement, but most of all - tears of amazement at a faithful, gracious God who has held my hand through this great adventure.  I must say this - if God calls you to do something, no matter how big or out of reach it seems - do it.  Follow Him.  He is trustworthy and sure.  He is good and kind.  He is out for your good and His glory. 

Thank you for encouraging us, praying for us, loving us and anticipating Joshua with us.  We're looking forward to introducing you to the cutest little monkey in all of China!