We're home and settling in quite well.

It was quite an adventure to get home from China.  We got all the way from Guangzhou, China to Chicago and then after waiting several hours, our flight was canceled due to the weather.  So, after an already very long trip, we needed to book a cab and stay the night at a hotel.  We made it to Detroit around noon on Saturday (although our luggage didn't) and are so thankful to Colleen, Sonyia and my Dad that came to the airport to get us all.  Even though our journey home took almost a day longer than expected, our children did really well.  Children's Benadryl sure helped Aris make the flight, and having my mom with us was also REALLY helpful. 

We didn't want a lot of fan fair when we arrived, but we came home to a bunch of balloons (which Aris really liked), a fridge full of groceries, gifts for all 4 of our kids and even 3 meals ready for us.  Our lawn had been freshly cut and our garden was flourishing - thank you to Sonyia and Colleen again!  You both have been such a blessing to us!  I can't even tell you how it has helped with our transition.

We've been home for over 3 complete days now and I'd say that for the most part we are doing well.  We are still adjusting our internal clocks to being able to sleep when we should, but have been able to typically get enough sleep sometime during the day.  As expected, Aris has been quite a busy little boy, but we've been just taking turns being on "Taotao patrol" (his big sisters welcome this duty).  He has such an awesome smile with an adorable little shoulder shrug that just melts my heart.  He does great riding in the car and sitting in his stroller and since being home, he lets us feed him a bottle twice a day - which I love.  I think that he loves having big sibs.  They love to play with him and help take care of him whenever we let them.  There hasn't been a dull moment since we've returned home.  It is so nice to finally have him home.

Thank you to all of you that have been with us on this long journey - we can say that it is has been so worth it!  Aris Aotao is such a blessing!
- Shannon