Davina Yuerong Johnson

We are excited to tell you that we have a new daughter! In a small office somewhere in the middle of Guangzhou, our adoption was finalized. Before the meeting, Rebekah (our guide here) said that they would interview Davina to make sure she wanted to join our family, but our time at the office was very short and Davina was not questioned at all. When I asked Rebekah, she said that everyone can tell how happy she is, so they did not need to question her. :)

 Next stop was the notary. We were briefly interviewed about our family and why we wanted to adopt Davina. I was caught a little off-guard, and I said because she is so beautiful. Todd added that we knew we wanted to adopt and when we saw her picture we knew she was our daughter. I guess we passed. Davina had to write a statement in her own handwriting acknowledging that this adoption is something she desires. And just like that, we were done and she is ours!

 Davina got a little car sick and so we came back to the hotel for a nap. We ate noodle bowls for lunch and then we headed out for our adventure. We took the subway to the circus. Words cannot describe this incredible adventure. First, Davina was a great guide and helped us navigate the subway system. And the circus was incredible including swinging trapeze artists who performed in the dark so only their glow in the dark suits showed, trained animals including bears, elephants, and monkeys, six motorcyclists going full speed inside of a metal sphere, high divers, and an assortment of random animals paraded through including a hippo, zebras, camels, flamingos, and monkeys herding a group of pigs. Oh, and three white tigers and a lion came out, too. It was really spectacular.

 We were all hungry when we got back, but sleepy, too and the fastest option was Starbucks. Todd and I had sandwiches and the girls got sweet treats. Then it was time to FaceTime with the family. Yuly and Riza kept calling for Davina. It was all so sweet to see all of my girls interact. Audrey doesn't get to say much with her sisters around, but it is nice to see her sweet face :) So that was our day. Our next step is to go to the police station and apply for Davina's passport. By the way, her English is improving constantly and she is working very hard at it. She is an amazing girl and has a smile that is so sweet. Please continue to pray for us and our family. Riza has been sick and my parents have had to take her to the doctor. The little girls are also trying to finish school so that they can be done when we get home. Savanna has done pretty well working on her school work, but she needs to finish. And of course for Davina as she has so many transitions and adjustments to make. I am so grateful for all of your prayers and support. I really cannot tell you how amazed and overwhelmed I am with all of your encouragements. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11