Day Two Final Paper Work

On day two we traveled to the local Civil Affairs Office. The office recently was moved to the office space next door due to the earthquake relief efforts.

Our guide Sandy lives in Chengdu. When ever she talks of the earthquake it is quite emotional. She keeps reminding us that we are the first family to come after the earthquake and she said most likely one of the first "Forners" since then. When she talks of this you can see how shook up she is about it. Rick asked her how have the people adjusted after this, have they come together and supported each other and she said yes!

Here we sign final adoption paper work. They ask us such questions as: are you happy with this child, do you promise to never abuse or abandon her, what is your plan with her, why do you want a child....It felt awkward to be asked these question but I understand their process and Sandy has told me that people have backed out before. She told us that unfortunately there was one family that she had that backed out once they arrived in Guangzhou. Crazy. She said the Mother was happy but the Father and other sibling were not. Very sad.

They also take our photo with Sophie and this is provided for one of the final pieces of paper work that we received today.

There are signs in this building that say NO SMOKING! But our guide told us that many men smoke in China. I guess they do not follow the signs. When ever some one is smoking Simone says, "UGH Smoke!"

Simone also had to go to the bathroom while here. So I take her in and there is a bathroom. "The Hole in the ground bathroom" as Simone would say. So I help her and accidentally dropped her underwear down and it hits the ground. Gross, sorry about the details but I have to keep this for Simone. Simone then tells me, "that's not how Daddy did it." "Daddy took my underwear off so that not happen." Of course, great idea Rick!!

Since the adoption is final at this time we recieve an indept Half The Sky report of Sophie Wei. Here I am above a little emotional about it. She was in their "Granny" program since one year old and they have photos along with information about her devlopment. It is written in Chinese but our Guide Sandy translates a little for us. How lucky we are to have this.