False Labor

The day didn't turn out quite like we expected.  We enjoyed the breakfast buffet at the hotel, walked around the island and did a little shopping, met our guide for lunch, got everything ready for the big moment, and headed to the Civil Affairs Office.  The scene there was nothing short of chaos -- at least 25 families meeting their new children, babies screaming, parents crying.  We waited about 15 minutes while our guide went to get things organized.  When she finally reappeared, she came to me with a serious look on her face, took me by the shoulders and said "Mary, I have to tell you something."  As my mind began to race with possibilities and I tried to prepare myself for the worst, she continued with "They forgot to bring your son."  Apparently, there was a mix-up, and the Civil Affairs Office failed to communicate with the orphanage; so they didn't know he was supposed to come today.  They brought two other children, but not him.  We were so relieved that this was the only problem that we couldn't be upset.  They promised to have him here tomorrow morning, and we will be able to continue with the adoption process without any setbacks in timing.  So, we left with a little Chinese boy, but he's the same one we brought with us!! 

So, what do you do when your adoption is postponed?  You go back to the hotel, get some ice cream and then get manicures!  Nothing like a little pampering!

We're thinking of today as the dress rehearsal.  Tomorrow will be the big event!  Please pray that everything goes smoothly this time and we come home with a new son!!