Farewell, China!

Last day! We leave at 6:00 am tomorrow morning for our flight to Tokyo so I'm thinking this might be our last post, at least in China.

Little Miss Asian Sensation had a party here last night. She woke up crying around midnight looking for a diaper change and the all-you-can-eat-midnight-buffet. We fed her, changed her and hung out with her awhile (we have to, right?) and finally she gave us a break and went back to sleep. I noticed today that the dark circles under my eyes are turning a fabulous shade of blue, unfortunately the color is not so great ON MY FACE.

After our last breakfast buffet today, we took the "Red Couch Pictures" with the Norris' and the Simpsons'. It's unreal--Frankie Jade couldn't be any cuter when she is in the room with us--she smiles, she laughs, she "talks," she blows tons of raspberries, but as soon as we walk out the door, her fingers go in her mouth and she shuts down. It could be behavior that is symptomatic of living in an institution, it could be that she is shy (doubt that), or I guess it could be that we are just so freakin' awesome that she only wants to be with us. When we got back to the room after the pictures, I tried to tell her, (as she was rolling around smiling and laughing) that the three of us can't be in this room all the time. I told her that we have to go out sometimes and mix with the outside world. Her response: She blew raspberries in my face.

Nice.

Cody packed for much of the day and we had every intention of running out and grabbing some lunch, but of course, that is when FJ decided to take her nap. No biggie, there is this great gourmet "deli" connected to the hotel so I went down and came back with plenty of food (and some desserts too)-can't miss a meal, you know me!

After lunch, I did my last minute shopping (for the third time) before changing Frankie into her "Consulate Appointment Outfit." Yes, she had a new outfit for her big day...and she looked super cute. The busses were loaded up with all the families who needed to go and we were off. We weren't allowed to take cameras so I have no shots, but it all went very well. A very personable American guy led the ceremony and went over all the details. He explained that as soon as our kids touch American soil, they are American. So cool! Then he had everyone stand up and take the oath. I wish I could remember how it went but I suck. I was just too excited to really pay attention. Since the guy had us repeat after him, I didn't have to think too much. I just knew we were going to be a family very soon and I was elated.

The best part was when the guy leading the ceremony asked everyone to raise their right hands and repeat after him. As soon as he said it, Frankie decided to blow a huge raspberry. Everyone around us was cracking up. It was so funny. She is seriously too much. The timing was perfect. Do you just love her? When he was finished Cody and I kissed (we didn't make out, it was like the kiss you do when you get married), and then we kissed Frankie who was still blowing raspberries. We were a family in the eyes of China at that moment. Now we just have to get home so America can recognize us as well.

We had a great dinner tonight, all three families. We ate at the hotel in this really beautiful restaurant. I ate so much, you would have thought I was going to the chair. I swear, I need a lazy Susan that is turbo charged. The ones in China just don't move fast enough for me. The best part: Wendy got a cake (yay--cake!!!). It was a really great night. We said our good-byes to the Norris' after dinner and exchanged many hugs. It was hard to hold back the tears. They are family now and I'm going to miss them tremendously. The Simpsons' are going with us to the airport tomorrow so we'll have to say good-bye to them tomorrow. That won't be pretty. I can't believe how close I feel to these people. We had the trip of a lifetime with them and I hope we all keep in touch.

Cathy, Amelia and I ran out after dinner to make sure there wasn't anything we missed in the stores. Of course there was and we bought it. I'm not sure what happened to my budget but don't worry, VISA took over where the yuan left off.

Before I sign off, I know I speak for Frankie and Cody when I say that we really appreciate you guys hanging with us during our adventures in China. We loved getting all your comments--the comic relief, advice and support meant the world to us. For those who weren't able to leave comments because you were blocked, or you just couldn't figure out how to do it, thank you for sending us emails. We know you're out there and we loved hearing from you. I know I've said it before, but it was not easy being in a foreign country very far from friends, family and Target with a new baby. You all made us feel a little closer to home and we will never forget your positive energy and endless encouragement. I don't understand why no one sent Floyd though. I can NOT wait to see Floydie!!!!

I'm a little nervous for the two long flights that lie ahead because I know they won't be easy. It's not just us anymore, we have a new addition (and she cries). That being said, I also know we'll get through the flights, security and customs as we do everything else, and quite frankly, I can't imagine doing it with anyone else. All of the reasons I love my husband are the same reasons that brought us to Frankie in the first place. I don't know of anyone else who would have done this with me, and I don't know anyone else I'd rather do it with.

We're coming home with a new Coden and I know you guys are going to love her. Thank you, in advance, for giving Swankie Frankie (and us) some time to get back on our game and get over our jetlag (the 12 hour difference may not be easy). We promise that she is worth the wait!

Oh, and she said to let you know that she likes presents.

I have no idea where she gets it.

She really has no shame.

Love you guys,

R, C and Frankie Jade Coden