What a long day. We were up at 4:45 am (China time) to get to the airport for the first of three flights. Pretty average day up until we hit Hong Kong. In HK we had to go through several security checkpoints, but the last one was the kicker. They “targeted” the lady with the diaper bag and baby to check very thoroughly. They were going to throw out the hot water to make bottles, but the very stern man generously allowed me to make two full hot bottles before emptying the Thermos. Not a huge deal, but it wasn’t fun.

The 14.5 hour flight from Hong Kong to Chicago was very turbulent. Katie was either a wonderfully content angel, or a monster. She vacillated between the two. Even during sleep she was thrashing around. Thank the Lord we purchased a seat for her, as the plane was completely full. We were all very happy to land in Chicago.

In Chicago, we had to endure long waits at customs and immigration, which caused us to miss our flight to Michigan. We were booked on the next plane out, but nobody knew that but us. We were able to reach my mother on her way to the airport, but several other family members and good friends came to the airport and had to leave before we got in (thanks for trying, though, we really appreciate it!).

 

Aunt Kathy, cousins Kyle & Casey, Grandma, Uncle Paul and cousins Rachel & Rebecca did greet us when we arrived back home after our marathon flights. The most frustrating part of the day was going through security SIX times in three airports. Not fun.

Katie HATED the car seat (duh) and wasn’t thrilled with the winter coat Grandma had brought to the airport. She’ll get used to both, I’m sure.

Once home, she took off like lightening, and hasn’t stopped since. Dear friends had brought helium balloons to the airport, and sent them home with my sister, and Katie loves them. Grandma’s dog is also very fun – to chase and to cause to bark.

Anyway, we’re glad to be home. After we post this, it will feel wonderful to drop into bed. Let’s all hope Katie is so exhausted from her day that she sleeps all night long!

Thank you so much for following our journey!