Here are some pictures from the dinner boat cruise last night.

I wasn't able to take any at the US consulate today as they don't allow any electronic devices. But we had our oath and signed the paperwork for her US visa and it was a very special and moving day. I really wish Gene and the boys could have been here with us. Noelle will be a US citizen the moment we hand in her paperwork at customs in Newark Airport on Saturday night.

We have made some wonderful lifelong friends on the trip. Many of us plan to stay in touch in the future so our children will know their special friends who experienced this with them. Everyone has been looking out for Noelle and me since Gene left, lifting her stoller, offering to carry my bag, inviting us to dinner, taking our pictures, all sorts of things. I believe it is true adoptive parents are unique and special. It is not something everyone is comfortable with and that is OK. I am glad I married someone who shared the desire with me.  It is also one of the benefits of traveling with this group of famillies. We all understand what we are doing here and can relate on a profound level.  They are all very special people whose families mean the world to them. Some of us have other adopted children, biological children and both. It is a very special way to build a family. The Dads are similar to Gene. Great guys who are wonderful Dads. It has been so fun to watch them with their new children and playing with their older daughters from China. It is hard to explain and it wasn't something I was expecting to be such a special part of my trip but it has been so wonderful to be with them all. I'm really going to miss this family and these friends and kids.

Tomorrow we go to the zoo and then I'm packing up to come home. More soon.... Katy