Almost there "Oath day" - Tuesday

Emma slept great again last night.  She was a bit cranky and fussy getting up (just kidding - you will see that last about 10 seconds).

Emma waking up

After getting up she had a chance to "meet" Grandma and Grandpa Stautz.  I think she is still trying to figure out how her "toys" are interacting with her, but she obviously enjoys it. 

Emma meeting Grandma and Grandpa Stautz

Today was the next milestone on Emma's journey to being a US citizen.  We went to the US Consulate here in Guangzhou to take an "oath" that attested to the accuracy of her paperwork and was the final official stage before having her US Visa issued.  Thursday our agency will pick up her passport and visa, and then as soon as it is stamped for entry on US soil she becomes a citizen (if I have this all correct :)).

Heading to the consulate and
striking a pose.

Of course she can't go to such an important event without getting dressed up (nor could mom).  She was happy as ever. 

Mom and Emma - all dressed
up and ready to go!

The appointment was right in the middle of nap time, which had us first time parents a bit concerned.  However she seems to be very flexible with her naps and sleeping, still with minimal fussing and always a smile to be had.  We remain fairly sure she is "fattening us up for the kill", but for the time we are embracing every second. 

The consulate did a nice job of explaining the process and ensuring that everything went smooth and efficient.  It was about a 30-40 min drive each way, and maybe 60 min total that we were there.  On the ride home Emma was starting to get a little sleepy.  The rash on her face is still lingering so we went to see a local doctor earlier in the day.  We have some medication coming tomorrow (Wed) and heard back from our pediatrician in Chicago.  Latest is that we think her cheeks may be eczema.

After the consulate appointment we had about an hour to get Emma some dinner before we headed out for a boat cruise on the Pearl River.  The boat was nice and the cruise was with all of the families that were here to adopt.  So we had a chance to hang out with many of the folks we have been seeing on the buses and at breakfast, and some time with several of the families we have gotten to know pretty well. 

Pearl River Cruise

Emma had a great time hanging out with her new friends.  Her original paperwork said she was "shy with strangers".  We are finding that to be far from the facts.  She is smiling for everyone, and enamored with the kids, constantly reaching out for them when they are nearby. 

Emma's first boat ride!

After the boat ride we stopped at Lucy's to hang out with a few other families.  We have met a lot of really great people on the trip and it has been a pleasure seeing the joy of so many families loving their new children.  That the children and families have changed so much in just over a week is heartwarming.  To think that this is the beginning of a lifetime for all involved is overwhelming. 

Tomorrow is a free day, so more shopping (I am sure), pool side activity, and starting to prepare for our journey home.