March 21 2007

On March 21 2007 we had been in Beijing for a few days with our 3 older boys and Laura.  It was time that morning to fly to Shenyang to meet Shiyan.   We go to the airport and on to our aircraft and then they announced that fog had rolled int o Shenyang. 

So we got off the plane and went to the terminal.  We soon discovered that there was an issue with Aaron's ticket. We kept talking to this guy and he said "OK No Problem"   Well finally about 2 pm it was time to board the plane again.   OK Problem Aaron's ticket would not work. 

I argued with them and finally had Robin and the other kids get on the bus to head to the plane.  I really thought we were going to have to get a car to drive Aaron and I there.  Aaron was afraid I would get us put in jail.

I finally remembered these cards I had in my pocked.  They said in English and Mandarin "We are here to adopt a beautiful Chinese Daughter. We will always love and cherish her"  I showed this to the man and he allowed us on the bus.  Aaron was in the front with the guard and driver.   

We got to the aircraft and convinced them to let us board.   Aaron and I were the last 2 to get on the plane.   We arrived in Shenyang and the guides told us just leave your bags here in the lot we will get them to your hotel.   We quickly grabbed a few items for Shiyan and got in a van with Mr. Wong.  He spoke no English and my Chinese is not great.   It was strange to be in a van with a man we did not now and not know where we were going.

We arrived at civil affairs after 4 and had to meet her and do paperwork before they closed at 4:30.   We quickly went in and met Shiyan with another guide that met us.   Shiyan said Mamma and Laura as soon as we walked into the room. She quickly came to all of us.

We then went to do the adoption photo and sign some papers.   We then headed off to the hotel to check in.   I then had to run to Wal Mart to get supplies and McDonald's to grab a quick dinner for all of us.   Funny her first meal with us was Chicken Nuggets and fries. 

Wow what a day that was. 

Today as we prepare to celebrate her Gotya day, we are in the middle of the COVID 19 crisis.  So this year we will not be able to eat out as a family.  We will adjust and we will stay out of the public. 

Pray for us as we go through this time.  We are praying for this nation and for this virus to pass.

Happy adoption day Shiyan we love you and are thankful that God brought you into our family