Preparations

After nearly 24 months of anticipation the time is finally here. We are in the process of making final preparations for the journey. Joining Darrell and Melissa this time will of course include Madeline as well as Dale and Val. We look forward to some sight seeing in Beijing on our way to Nanchang, that is right back to Nanchang where our family was so wonderfully blessed with Madeline. Madeline is now almost 4, and we really hope she is old enough to remember this very special trip for more reason that we can list here.

Fortunately, packing the "essentials" this time will be easier since Mom had the foresight to save the list from our journey for Madeline. the more challenging part is winter clothes take up much more space that summer clothes, ever in Mia's size.

In rough terms the following is our itinerary:
Depart Wednesday January 24:
-Meet Val and Dale in Chicago for the short flight directly to Beijing
Arrive Thursday January 25:
-We land late afternoon/evening and will probably be in need of some stretching after spending the better part of 24 hours in transit.

Beijing:
We have 2 full days (plus the first evening after the flight) to enjoy this wonderful city. We will be sight seeing, there is a plan, and we do have a guide to show us around.

Nanchang:
Sunday January 28 (aka Gotcha Day!):
Flight from Beijing to Nanchang
Mia physically, and forever enters our lives!!!

Monday January 29
Official Adoption

Tuesday January 30
Our itinerary says "parenting" and some light shopping

Wednesday January 31 [Happy Birthday Dad (Carl)]
Sight Seeing

Thursday Feb 1
Sight Seeing in the morning
Pick up official adoption documents

Friday Feb 2
Pick up Mia's Chinese passport (Morning)
Flight to Guangzhou (afternoon)

Guangzhou:
Saturday Feb 3
Sight Seeing in and around Guangzhou

Sunday Feb 4
Paperwork
Mia's "doctors visit"

Monday Feb 5 [Happy Birthday Maddie]
10:00 AM Appointment with the USA Consulate to get Mia's visa

Tuesday Feb 6 [Happy Birthday Tian]
Pick-up Mia's Visa

Wednesday Feb 7
Return flight to USA, Guangzhou to Hong Kong to Chicago (say good by to uncle Dale and Aunt Val) Home!!!

Wednesday Feb 7 ..................... Enjoy all of life's blessings with our wonderful families and friends.