Day 8

Today we had a free day. No appointments. We stayed on the island and walked, shopped, and ate.

First, after breakfast, we had to stop at Starbucks of course. While we were in there, the craziest thing happened. I saw this American guy in there with what appeared to be his mom, his 4 year old son, and his newly adopted son. We’ve seen them and his wife at various appointments. After talking to him for a minute I asked where he was from. He pointed to his mom and said she lives in Panama City, FL. I said, “No way! That’s where I grew up!” They asked which part, and I told them Lynn Haven. They said, “No way! What neighborhood?” I said North Shore. They said, “Our house is on Beachcomber Drive.” I said, “What?!?! You’ve got to be kidding me?? I grew up on Beachcomber Drive!”

He grew up there, and his mom still lives there. We started patching things together. I mentioned two little girls that I used to babysit for. I forgot about their little boy, which I also used to sit for. Yes, it was him! We could not believe it. His mom and I were tearing up when we realized who each other was. Half way around the world I ran into a family I grew up a couple of doors down from and babysat for. Unbelievable. And then he said, “But I live in Marietta, GA now.” OMG. We live 20 minutes away from each other.

I met his wife and we spent most of the day catching up and getting to know each other. They came to the island with several other adoptive families we got to know a little, too. One, also from Marietta, who are here adopting two girls, 10 and 11 years old. They were all so nice. To top it off, we’re also on the same plane leaving Hong Kong at 1am Wed evening. What are the chances? This experience is so special, and only those that have gone through it really understand. I have a feeling the relationships we’re building and the bonds we’re forming will lead to a lifetime of support.

I’ll just leave you with some pics and videos. Time to get some sleep. We have our US Consulate appointment tomorrow. Then Michael will pick up Aili’s visa on Wed afternoon and we’re outta here. We can’t wait to get our family home.