Day 13 (Going Home)

I don't know exactly how many times we said it during the day, but the theme was certainly "Can you believe we're finally going home?" It was the day we most looked forward to, but certainly dreaded as well. I remember wishing we had that remote in "Click" with Adam Sandler to skip the flights!

The day was unbelievably hectic and exhausting. The hotel adjoins the airport, which was nice. That was the last thing has was enjoyable for a solid hour and a half. The exit row we had paid extra to get was no longer available to us because of Lacey (on infants in the exit row). The seats were seriously the one thread we were hanging on for a sane trip. We knew they would allow Lacey to get down and walk around, and even sleep on he floor. We were both legitimately on the verge of tears. Add to that a long line at exit customs (really dumb line), an even longer security line, 4 more escalators, a run by a crazy crowded McDonalds, a train ride, and another walk to the gate, the trip wasn't starting well. And then, things began to brighten. Anne Wu from United seriously worked for 30 minutes to improve our seating. She got us two bulkhead seats, which were even better than the exit row! Our spirits perked up. The kind folks tried to pry it away, as we had to go through security plane-side, and throw out the water and Starbucks we just bought. What?? And they also pulled some king of ninja move whereby they managed to steal our stroller. I hope they enjoy it!

So we got in our seats, thought about the poor guy sitting with us, and settled in for the next 15.5 hours. The guy sitting with us was awesome. He played peek-a-boo with Lacey on command. He talked to her, smiled at her, laughed with her. Better than the awkward, Skill Level: Expert staring we had become accustomed to.

76 years later, we landed. And those years can only be explained this way - God most definitely answers prayer. You may not believe that, but this trip is proof in my mind. The girl that wigged out and couldn't sit still was really good for the most part. Aside from a few small incidents, she was no problem. It was a lot of work, but we kept her occupied. She slept about 4-5 hours of the trip, which was pure gold. The great fear was relieved; the burden past. Thanks be to the Lord!!

I can't begin to say how great it was to see "Welcome to the USA!" We went through the Newark airport and hit customs. And, just like that, Lacey was a US citizen! We claimed our bags (where we came to realize the ninja-theft of the stroller) and rechecked them. Then, it was off to our last leg of the trip.

I'm not comfortable sharing what I wanted to do when I saw a sign that said, regarding our flight, "Scheduled-5:20; Delayed-8:45." It involved breaking things. I wanted to keep it from Cindy, but I couldn't. In it together, right? The look on her face broke my heart. So I went to a gate to see what I could do. And another incredible airline employee saved the day. A flight was leaving at 5:35 (delayed from 3). But there was a long standby list already. I told her our plight, and I could literally see the compassion in her face. She found two seats from somewhere, and gave us the LAST TWO SEATS on the flight! Nothing but another miracle and answer to prayer.

Lacey was, um, wired. Too little sleep, too much travel, and she was like a Tasmanian devil. So, yeah, not too excited about a 2 hour flight with tight seats! But, again, another unbelievable thing happened. We gave Lacey a snack after takeoff, and she actually fell asleep while eating them. Too cute! She slept until we were about 5 minutes out. Amazing! When we touched down and heard, "Welcome to Charlotte," I could tell what was coming. I was already emotional. I whispered in Lacey's ear, "No more planes, trains, busses, and hotels. You're home, sweetie." We walked off the plane, quickly stopped by the bathroom to freshen up, and walked to the baggage claim.

The next several minutes were a blur. I don't think I'll be able to talk about it for a long time without tearing up. With Lacey in my arm and my rock by my side, we hit the escalator. First, I saw my nephew Andrew. Then, I saw our friend Beth Skates. Then, everyone saw us and erupted in cheers. Then, I saw Lexi - and it was over. I'm actually crying while I type this! All the stress and drama seemed to rush out to be replaced by pure joy. She ran over to us, followed by Ava. I cried like a baby. It was such a great moment. Seeing our parents, my sister, my sisters-in-law, my brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, and great friends was more than I could emotionally cope with. I'll never forget it.

Lacey didn't cry. She looked around at everyone, and was a little unsure, but she did fine. After hugs, kisses, and handshakes, (and one lost bag form), we walked out to the car to head home. Home!!! Lacey was put into a car seat for the first time and pacified with a snack. I drove for the first time in two weeks, and had to make sure I didn't drive like the Chinese! We pulled up, walked in, and our trip was finally over.

What a journey! One that has ended, only to be replaced by the daily challenges that await our family. I've already enjoyed seeing Lexi and Ava be so sweet to their little sister. The kindness of children is a treasure. I've said this before, but it will be said again. Cindy and I are so overwhelmed and thankful for all the support and encouragement we have received these last 16+ months. You all are so wonderful, and we cannot thank you enough. The body of Christ is a wonderful concept!! We rejoice in the faithfulness of God and the kindness of His people. Please continue to pray for us, and we hope to show off this family of 5 in the near future!! We love you all.

For the last time: Thanks for reading,
Daniel, Cindy, Lexi, Ava, and Lacey