Of course, we all knew that already. The point is, Canaan is officially an Avery! No two ways around it. Signed, sealed, delivered, she's ours. It has been a whirlwind since we last blogged, and the bags under my eyes are huge, but let me try to recount the past 36 hours or so to bring you up to speed.
We left Beijing Monday morning on a 10:30 a.m flight to Nanchang, which is in the southern part of China. We landed at 1 p.m. and immediately caught a bus to the hotel. On the way, I couldn't help but notice the differences in terrain between Beijing and Nanchang. We went from metropolis to the sticks. Actually, farmland really. This region produces the majority of the food, especially rice, for the nation. So, we saw fields everywhere. Our regional guide Mary also gave us some info. about the country. For example, China has over 3 times the population of the U.S. Sizewise, China and America are similiar in land mass, but there is one major difference. Most of China is mountainous. So only a small portion is suitable to live and farm. That is why no one here can really afford land or even homes. Most people live in the cities in rundown highrise apartments that tower everywhere. People on top of people on top of people...you get the picture.
Anyway, we arrived at our hotel with barely any time left to unpack and freshen up before we would need to be back on the bus to go get our baby. When we got to our beautiful room, it had a terrible odor that we could not pinpoint. It was so bad that we needed to change rooms, but had no time to do so. So, instead we left our things and headed to the offices where we would pick up Canaan. We were so frazzled and emotional and feeling way out of our element. In route, we were told that our baby would be waiting for us when we arrived, but when we got there the story inmmediately changed. Some babies supposedly were not yet there. Because our name begins with the letter A and we are family number 1 in our adoption group, we were supposed to be first in line to get our girl. However, they called somone else's name first, so we assumed that our Canaan had not yet arrived. What an emotional roller coaster ride this had turned out to be. Babies crying, parents crying, Avery's crying. BUT, they called our name second. And there she was. Our little Canaan. Just like in her picture. So beautiful and so content. Taking it all in, and without even a whimper. I can't imagine what she was thinking. All these caucasion people everywhere and 3 Avery girls all up into her ATM space. Of course, she immediately proved herself to be a "daddy's girl." So, I proudly walked around showing her off to the other new proud parents, who in turn were showing off their new little treasures. It was a room full of gushing mamas and proud papas. And we relished the moment, before it was off to the hotel.
Back at the hotel, there was plenty of paperwork to complete, and we still had the issue of the myserious odor to deal with. I dealt with both while Mindi tried to get some food in Canaan and get her down for nap. She didn't take to the formula, so we gave her some baby food and then she was OUT. We ordered a couple of pizza's for the girls to enjoy, but they were OUT also by the time it arrived. So, Mindi and I had a meal with some peace and quiet for once. By the way, let me mention that China credits themselves with inventing ketchup. I bring this up because the room service pizza tasted as if it was made with ketchup instead of pizza sauce. Very interesting I would say, but I wouldn't go so far as to say it was good. Oh well, they tried. The upshot is that Mindi got her Coca-Cola and I got my Sprite. And then we were OUT!
Chloe and Chai were both up at 4:30 a.m. and wanting to eat, so they had some cold pizza. Chai liked it, which makes perfect sense, because she eats her weight in ketchup when we eat out in the States. Chloe wasn't sold, so she ate a granola bar instead. I am sure glad that Mindi packed the snacks. I never thought I could miss good ol' American food so much.
Mindi decided to get Canaan up and give her a bath and change. The water was lukewarm so Canaan wasn't thrilled, but she never get too upset about it. We did notice some bruising on her little body, and she seemed to have a cough as well as some congestion. When we checked into it, we were told that she had just gotten sick and that they had put an IV in her. It is very common in China to give babies IV's because they feel that it helps the baby get well sooner. There is no way of knowing all of the details really, but we will get her checked out here before we leave and, of course, have a thourough examination once we get back home to Georgia.
We met the bus and group at 7:30 a.m. and headed to go do more paperwork and finalize the adoption. The first appointment was quite interesting. We were asked about 8 to 10 questions ranging from.... the reason we wanted to adopt a girl from China (when we already have 3 girls of our own), to... do we promise to provide a wonderful life for her, always taking care of her, and never abusing her in any way? After the question and answer session (about 3 minutes total), she was officially ours. Next, I just walked over to the cashier to pay the government for their portion of Canaan's upbringing. We then headed to another office to deal with pictures and passports, before the last stop of the day, 
the Nanchang Super WalMart. At the WalMart, we stocked up on baby food and grabbed a few "essentials" like Coca Cola and Sprite...oh, and water also. As we headed for the checkout counter (which was on the second floor, by way of a "no step escalator".... strange I know), we caught a glimpse of a beautiful sight. KFC. Mindi hightailed it in there to get us some "original recipe" while I checked out. Unfortuntely, I couldn't communicate with the cashier, so we could never figure out how to purchase the lollypops that the girls had each picked out for a treat. They were disappointed not to get their candy, but were suddenly satisfied when mama returned with the chicken, and it was finger lickin' good!
Then it was back to the hotel for some R&R. Which of course brings us to now, with everyone crashed out for an afternoon nap...... everyone except me. I have got to take care of these enormous sandbags under my eyes. But who can sleep? PIZZA HUT is soon to be on it's way, and I have to decide between Pepperoni and Cheese Lovers. I sure hope it doesn't taste like ketchup....
Finally!!! What a feeling it must be to finally have your girl with you, being able to hold her & take care of her yourselves instead of thinking of her on her own. We thank God for getting you to this point safely, and pray you get home quickly. Congratulations!!! We're very happy for you all. (hope the pizza was edible....)
Posted by: Jeannine & Rick Williams (from Mahomet) | July 10, 2007 at 04:48 AM
Praise God! I am so happy for you and SO relieved that this journey is over. Now the real adventure begins. Congratulations, Averys! We love you!
Craig, Alyson & "the girls"
P.S. K & E want pictures soon...
Posted by: Alyson Epp | July 10, 2007 at 06:17 AM
Hey, Averys!!!!
We are thrilled for you!!! We have been praying for you as your family bonds together. Canaan sounds precious. We can't wait to meet her. Our love and prayers are with you all.
Posted by: Matt, Chris, Nathan, Carissa & Abigail | July 10, 2007 at 06:30 AM
She is so beautiful!! We pray that this is a smooth transition for your entire family as you welcome sweet Canaan. Give her a big hug from Uncle Chad, Aunt Andrea and cousin Josiah!! We love you all!!
Posted by: Chad, Andrea and Josiah | July 10, 2007 at 07:51 AM
Yes, I'm back - hoping for a picture update. Love the hairbow! She's got more hair than Caroline! She is absolutely beautiful! Caroline gave her a big grin when she saw her picture. Can't wait to get these two little blessings together! We're still praying! Hugs and kisses to the Avery girls!
Alyson
Posted by: Alyson Epp | July 10, 2007 at 07:55 AM
CONGRATULATIONS, your family is finally complete and we know it's an awesome feeling. We were so excited this morning seeing the new post about Gotcha Day, what a day. We are glad to hear that Canaan is doing well both physically and emotionally. People will say that you are a blessing to Canaan for adopting her, but what they may not know is the act of adoption is not the only blessing. The bigger blessing is the child and what they bring to you. The hard part is finally over and now comes the fun, getting to know your daughter. This is your first "whole family" vacation in over two years so enjoy it and enjoy China.
We can't wait to see some new family pictures!
Love-
The Paynes
Posted by: Payne family | July 10, 2007 at 07:57 AM
BEAUTIFUL! Oh my gosh! I have tears running down my face! It is finally over and how blessed Canaan is to be an Avery! No better mom and dad could be found and 3 precious sisters to dote on her in everyway!
I am so excited and can't wait to hold the newest Avery and give lots of hugs and kisses!
God is so awesome!
Love you all!
Posted by: Debbie Barker | July 10, 2007 at 09:15 AM
Hey Avery's!! It's the Chapman clan, just back from China ourselves!!! Can't wait to hear all about your trip in detail and we are soooooo excited for you! Obviously we are so glad to see this journey come to a reality... Call or email us sometime so we can compare stories... It seems like an eternity since we sat in that room in Atlanta to talk about adoption. Our prayers are with you. Peace, Steven and Mary Beth Chapman for the whole gang! GOD IS SO FAITHFUL!
Posted by: Mary Beth Chapman | July 10, 2007 at 11:15 AM
Congratulations!! She's beautiful!
Love,
Scott, Monica, Colton and Carson
Posted by: The Dahlems | July 10, 2007 at 12:56 PM
Dear Averys (all six!!!),
Congratulations! We're so glad you're finally all together! Canaan is so beautiful. Her eyes seem to hold so much (the picture of her sitting on the floor by the bed). John and I are soaking up every detail as we look forward to our much anticipated "gotcha day".
Ketchup-tasting sauce on pizza.... Yeah, it doesn't sound too appetizing. Hope the second pizza was better. At least you found some KFC.
We're loving the pictures. Keep them coming. Our prayers remain with you. Have a wonderful time bonding with Canaan and experiencing China.
Love you,
John, Vicki & Harrison
Posted by: The Rutherfords | July 10, 2007 at 04:56 PM
Brad and Avery clan,
We are so happy for y'all! God bless your newest addition to the Avery family and to the Third Day family!
Posted by: Cebrina | July 10, 2007 at 05:10 PM
Avery's!!
How blessed you are. We are so proud of your faithfulness and strength in this process. We are so honored to have another, #15 to be exact, Third Day Baby. We can't wait to meet her and hold that precious face. Finally all the prayers have been answered. Here's to safe travels home and know that your (Brad's) presence has been sorely missed on stage and off. It just ain't the same. We love you!
Mark, Steph and Abbie Lee
Posted by: Mark Lee | July 10, 2007 at 05:54 PM
Congratulations Avery Family. Thank you for sharing this wonderful happy ending. She's beautiful!
Praying for a safe return home.
Posted by: MrsJason | July 10, 2007 at 09:46 PM
Hi Avery's. Congratulations on your new baby girl! She is adorable. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. It brought tears and smiles reading it. Enjoy the rest of your trip! Get some dumplings, too! (but not from the street vendors)
Posted by: joanne | July 10, 2007 at 10:45 PM
Great to hear about Gotcha Day! Our gotcha day was very different. We had two screaming toddlers. And we loved every minute of it. We did exactlty the same thing with the paperwork and fees (only for us it was times two!). We also experienced a Chinese Wal-Mart. Ours was in Changsha and had five floors. However, our time included a lesson in Chinese toilets. We were carefully observed, too. Try going to an area of China with minimal Westerners with red hair and a goatee. Good thing I left the kilt at home! Back to your story. We'll add our "what a blessing" to the many you'll receive. We look to John 1:12-13 to remember that we're all born into the family of God. Congratulations and may God continue to bless you and your family. We look forward to hearing more about the trip (heading to Guangzhou?).
The Pack family
Posted by: Brian, Jennifer, Nora and Olivia | July 10, 2007 at 11:11 PM
Oh wow - I am crying again!! What a beautiful girl, what a beautiful bunch of girls - oh man - think of all the potential boyfriends you're going to have to fend off!!
Congratulations and Praise God for your miracle girl.
Posted by: marg | July 11, 2007 at 02:36 AM
Oh wow - I am crying again!! What a beautiful girl, what a beautiful bunch of girls - oh man - think of all the potential boyfriends you're going to have to fend off!!
Congratulations and Praise God for your miracle girl.
Posted by: marg | July 11, 2007 at 02:36 AM
God's blessing is certainly upon you, Averys! May He continue to bless you abundantly, holding you close to Him. Praying for a safe return trip home.
Your new baby girl is just beautiful...as are your three other princesses. You all make a stunning family.
I am so thrilled for you! I cant wait for John to get home from work so I can share with him. LOL
Welcome to the world of Third Day and the Gomers Canaan!
Much love from Down Under.
Joan
Posted by: Joan Young/Godgrl Gomer | July 11, 2007 at 04:22 AM
Congratulations! We're so excited for you all and can't wait to meet Canaan. As we looked at all the pictures, we thought of how blessed this sweet little girl is to have all of you as her family. She's beautiful and blessed! I (Tara) especially enjoyed the picture of Walmart. Did they have green bananas? If they did, I may just have to move there! :-)
Love you all and can't wait 'til you're home with us again.
Posted by: David, Tara, Sam and Faith | July 11, 2007 at 08:08 AM
We are so overwhelmed by this new little blessing to the family...she is absolutely beautiful and we can't wait to love on our little Canaan :) The wait has been worth it! Uncle Amil will be leaving for Colombia tomorrow, so by the time he gets back, you all will be home safely and Canaan will be all settled in so we can come and visit! Enjoy the rest of your wonderful trip to China and I echo Andrea...take lots of pictures, Min!!! Kisses and hugs to all...we love you lots and are so excited for you!!
Posted by: Amil and Jenna | July 11, 2007 at 08:16 AM
Okay, I'm a little slow; just now figuring out there is a way to leave a comment. We've been following your blog each day, and were so excited to see your Avery family of 6!! Canaan is an absolute doll. I hope it won't be too long before we can meet her.
Grant, the kids and I have all been praying for you daily, and Brooklyn has been drawing pictures of you with Canaan. We even checked out books on China while at the library this week. Brooklyn is very intrigued and has had many questions.
We're super proud of you all, and will continue to pray.
Glory to God!!
Leigh Ann (and the rest of the Normal Averys) :)
Posted by: Leigh Ann Avery | July 11, 2007 at 12:53 PM
Grandpa and I are thrilled to see our sweet new granddaughter. She is precious, beautiful and the answer to a long-awaited journey.
I wish she could understand just now how much she means to us and how excited we are to meet her and get her firmly in our arms.
In time she will come to understand the gift she is to us. We'll cherish her as we do our other little ones and watch as the story God is writing through her unfolds. Another chapter in the Avery legacy.
Enjoy this special time together as family and we'll wait as patiently as possible for your arrival home.
Love Grandma and Grandpa Avery
Posted by: Valerie Avery | July 11, 2007 at 02:52 PM
Wow! I finally had a chance to catch up on the blog....I am so excited and can't wait to meet Canaan! I saw Vicki's AWAA calendar today. All of those precious faces....I wish adoption was easier....but I guess all the hard work and waiting just adds to the sweetness of finally holding her and loving on her. Care to share? Just kidding!
Hugs,
Kristin
Posted by: Kristin Boatner | July 11, 2007 at 06:30 PM
Congratulations on your newest addition to your family!!! She is absoluetly beautiful!
Posted by: Sam | July 11, 2007 at 09:40 PM
Hi guys! Congratulations!!! We are so happy for all of you. Now get Chai some rest so she can be back bouncing around in the classroom like she always is! :)
Love,
Amy & Phil
Posted by: Amy & Phil Weinmeister | July 11, 2007 at 10:26 PM