Tuesday, February 05, 2008

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

8 comments:

Hollie said...

Thanks for the update! I'm so glad Elyza is doing well. Isn't it nice to have a mom whose willing to drop it all and rescue you when you feel bad? Really, I know. Look forward to hearing more about Elyza and seeing more pics too!
Love,
Hollie

Living to Love said...

Im so glad to hear you THREE :o) have made it home safe and sound! Praying for a smooth transition!

Anonymous said...

Courtney:
I have been keeping up with you and Jay's wonderful news through Andrea and your Blog. Elyza is a cutie and I know you'all are going to give her a most blessed life.
You have come a long way from the summers at Camp M in NC. Would you have ever thought you would be where you are when you and Andrea left on that trip west many years ago? We Mamas worried, but I know your Mom like me is so very proud of both of our girls.
I look forward to hearing about your adventures in the wonderful land of Motherhood.
Lots of Love sent your way.

Andrea's Mom,
Jane

Klaudette said...

It was my pleasure! I hope you are both feeling better--and getting some rest.
Love, the title winner "first friend in the USA to meet Elyza"--I love that :)

Jodee said...

Enjoy your time together as a new family of three! I can't wait to see new pictures!

Shawnstribe said...

So glad you guys are back safe and sound!!!!
Elyza is so so precious.
Thinking of you all as you settle back home
xxx
Shawn and Aila Mei

Anonymous said...

Any time, sister! LOL.
-Kerri Hillis

mockingbird said...

When can I meet her!!!! Let me know what I can do to help...I am home for the next couple of weeks!! xorobin