We completed the Giving and Receiving Ceremony Thursday, December 25 at 3pm in Thanh Hoa. We then embarked on the ever-thrilling 3.5 hour ride back to Hanoi. Words can not quite do justice to the drive. Let's just say that the road that leads to Hanoi is two-lane and the definition of "lane" is left up to the driver's discimination. We had at least 3 near head-on collisions that we could see, and once it turned dark outside, we lost count. Most of the road is "under construction" and we went over several temporary bridges that shook and swayed. The traffic is pretty much bumper to bumper the whole way, and passing the vehicle in front of you seems to be part of the fun, especially if a huge truck is coming straight at you! Driving in Vietnam, and riding for that matter, is not for the faint of heart. But Kiah slept on and off, and Laney slept almost the entire time! We are so happy to be back in Hanoi safely and to be the offical parents of Kiah Thanh Allen!
7 comments:
Greetings to the Officially newly expanded Allen family. We have been holding our collective breaths waiting for this posting, knowing that getting back to Hanoi was a vital, but daunting, part of the process. We also hope that Kia's digestive system has become less adventurous. Now you all can have some more varied scenery and dining options while waiting for the Embassy to reopen. Scuttle and I just came in from our morning walk, and he has curled up on the couch for a little nap. The photo of the G&R looks like a dignified but happy affair. We look forward to hearing all of the details, and especially Laney's stories. Love to all --- Grampie
So happy for the 4 of you that the ceremony is over and you are back in Hanoi. Especially happy that you made it there safely based on your description of the trip. Can't wait to hear all the details. Take care!
Wheh hew! One more step closer to being home in your own beds! :) Love ya and miss you much!
Earl and I are so happy that the adoption ceremony is finalized and he is finally all yours. We're looking forward to New Year's Day. Love, Nana
I am anxious to see that precious little boy. I have enjoyed being the middle man/woman in getting all this information to Earl and Joyce.
Love, Frances
I have enjoyed typing for these women.
Love, Amanda
Congratulations on your new addition and on being safely back in Hanoi. We're back in Clinton, and I've enjoyed catching up on your postings that I've missed over the last several days. We're looking forward to having you all safely back in NC, and, of course, we're looking forward to meeting Kiah.
Love,
Lori
What a great picture of your family complete (unless God says otherwise :) You look great. Perry, you have taken care of your family well! I am so proud of you guys standing there so handsome at the GC ceremony. What a journey..soon your normal life together can resume and we can share our boys and girls together!
What a stunning family you make! one step closer to getting home!
Congratulations~
Love,
Vito, Krista and Isabella
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