It's official...

she is stuck with us!!!! We signed her official adoption decree today. In the eyes of China she is ours forever!!!! We had a wonderful day meeting with officials and taking care of all of the necessary paperwork. It was so fun seeing each of these beautiful girls forever joined together with their families.

We had a great night with her. She woke up at 1:30 for a bottle and went right back to sleep. She slept between John and I all night in a slightly larger than twin sized bed. It was cozy but reassuring to have her right there with us all night.

She woke up a little bewildered, but quickly remembered who we were. I guess she has decided that we are okay. She has been so brave and just the sweetest little thing the past several hours. She does not like to be put down or have her diaper changed. We are just fine with holding her as much as she needs. After 5 years, we don't even want to put her down.

We met for breakfast at the hotel this morning around 7:30. It was a completely different scene from the morning before. John ordered a round of congee for all the babies and then we were in business. Congee is a rice porridge they serve for breakfast. At night they add a little meat and chicken broth to it.

We then met in the hotel lobby at 8:30 to start our day of paperwork. We went to the notary office and signed her decree and promised to never abandon, neglect or abuse her. I teared up when they asked that statement. She is just such a precious little one and we feel so blessed that we were chosen for her.

Our next step was to pay our fees and meet with the orphanage director and nanny. After a few more questions it was time for photos. We were very impressed with the staff, they genuinely cared for Maddie and Karis. It was very apparent in their actions and words that they truly love these little ones. We were able to visit with the nanny and ask a few questions. It was nice have that time with them.

After the exciting morning we headed back to the hotel. We ordered Pizza Hut and relaxed in our hallway for the afternoon. John and Maddie had a great nap and the girls and I risked our lives to run to the grocery store for diapers and formula. It is a bit like playing frogger to cross the street. We are getting better, I hope by the time we get to Guangzhou we are experts. I have heard it is a necessity!

We went to dinner as a group and celebrated our wonderful day! We are now just hanging out in the room, trying to get Maddie to stay up just a bit later. I will leave you with some photos. I promise to post about Family day soon. I am still wrapping my mind around the whole experience!