The countdown has begun! We have 4 and a half days before we leave for home! I never would have predicted that I would be so eager to return. Chris and I have ALWAYS enjoyed traveling. Having children does change a lot of things. I must remember this feeling next time I'm longing for a vacation. Nothing is better than being in the presence of the people I love.

Tian was a brave boy as he endured his first flight yesterday. Watching his face light up at the magnitude of the jets was fun. He made a boring day at a crowded airport a little less boring. He admitted to our guide that he was a bit fearful.

We can also now say that we were the family with the noisy toddler on the plane. Little man despises the seatbelt. Boy is Mommy dreading the car seat when we return home. I can't even allow myself to think about the flights home. I pray he sleeps a lot and that the other passengers have extra patience and ear plugs!

It is a nice change to be in Guangzhou. Every family who adopts in China has to come here to get a US visa for their little "immigrant". Tian handled the medical exam without so much as a complaint. The same cannot be said for his afternoon nap.

We did get in some cuddle time before nap. Tian still prefers Daddy, but Mama is seeing a little more love. He is so funny. In private, he wants to kiss all over us (he will kiss your feet if you let him). Once in public, he does not want Chris to kiss him. He pushes Chris away and then makes this cute little smirk as he looks at him out of the corner of his eyes. He rejects the affection as lovingly as he can.

He is into everything. Look out house! Look out girls; your room may never be the same.

Highlight of the day: a very American breakfast!!!! Tian enjoyed bacon, tator tots, and grapes. The boy loves to eat. He yelped, "OOOoooh yea BaBa" when asked if he was ready to eat. He eats substantially more than I do; he even had gained 2 pounds since his weighing in July. He may be small now, but we predict he is going to be a big boy.

Tomorrow, our paperwork will be filed with the American Consulate so that we can take Tian home. Once our plane lands in Chicago, Tian will be an American citizen. Did I mention that we will be home on Sunday? :) We will also enjoy some shopping tomorrow and a dinner cruise. I haven't really enjoyed the shopping here. You have to haggle with the salespeople to get a decent price. I would much rather just pay what is asked, provided that price is reasonable.

We again give thanks to God as He continues to strengthen and encourage us. This has not been an easy experience; it's very emotional. Nonetheless, this is the path that God has placed us on. I once heard a missionary inside of an African war zone say that we are never safer than in the center of God's will. I agree!