Catherine's Homecoming

We walked bleary eyed toward the baggage carousel at SEA-TAC airport and were completely surprised to see a a group of bright eyed...well, sort of bright eyed people from our church - at 1 AM this morning. We were deeply touched by this show of support! An extra van was also a big help with our luggage.

Our journey home began over 24 hours ago when we affirmed our commitment to become Catherine's legal parents and boarded the bus to the airport north of Guangzhou. Simon went with us and assisted several families through check in at the China Southern ticket counter. The flight was full which made the 13 hour flight to LAX a serious endurance challenge as the four of us sat shoulder to shoulder, with no extra seat for Catherine (we only purchased the lap ticket, but most of the time families can find an open seat for some breathing room). Adding to this learning experience were the tired folks in front of us who reclined their seats...all the way back. Seasoned travelers out there will relate easily to the moment when I left my seat to help prepare a bottle and upon my return stared at the spot where I was about to cram my frame, thinking to myself that it looked about the size of a large postage stamp.

For Future Adoptive Families: Be prepared to wait at least an hour at the Immigration station in LAX. We were glad that the immigration officer moved families with babies to the front, but there was only one staff member to handle a large number of adoptive families. Our friends missed their connecting flight due to this unexpected delay and we literally had to jog in order to make our flight to Seattle. Also, consider upgrading to premium economy class on China Southern for the return flight to ensure better seating. Or, choose another carrier with more flexible seating arrangements in economy.

Finally, we are thrilled to be back in the South Sound with our friends, family, and neighbors and look forward to the future we have together. Thanks to everyone for your support and prayers.