Home Sweet Home

Well, we made it home late Sunday afternoon, absolutely exhausted, but elated to be home. The flight from Hong Kong to Chicago was 13.5 hours, with a 4 hour layover in Chicago and a 1 hour flight home from the Windy City. Elyza had a rough start, but proved to be an excellent traveller, enduring the many hours of flying, little sleep, and jet lag.

Our dear friend, Klaudette picked us up from the airport winning the official title of "first friend in the USA to meet Elyza" and in Klaudette fashion, provided us with a basket of homemade goodies, a SALAD (which we had been craving ever since we landed in China), beer, and more. Thanks, Klaudette! When we pulled up to the front door, we were greeted by a decorative entry and "Welcome Home Elyza" sign courtesy of Suzanne and Nancy. Thanks, girls! And we found our refrigerator stocked with milk, fresh produce, and cookies courtesy of Will and Kerri! Thanks, guys! And, thanks to my mom, who drove 4 hours last minute on Sunday to lend us an extra hand since Jay and I came home with souvenirs of sinus colds and serious jet lag. Thanks also to Halie who coordinated meals for the next month and all the friends who are graciously participating. Seriously, I don't know what in the world I would do without you all! I'm so indebted to you, my friends. We have been so encouraged and inspired by your comments, emails, gifts and gestures of generosity and kindness. It's reminded us of just how sweet our lives are with people like you in it.

We've had one full day at home so far, and Elyza is doing absolutely wonderful! She is so happy and healthy! She has been studying her new home, taking it all in, and she seems very comfortable and content with her new American life. Jay has time off from work until March and we are so grateful to have the time to bond as a family over the next few weeks.

This whole experience has been overwhelmingly wonderful in every way. Thanks to you all for sharing it with us!

With love from our home to yours,
J, C, and E