The first 2 weeks

This post is long overdue.  Most know by now that Micah is now finally home and we have spent just about 2 weeks adjusting to being a family of 5.  We received word on 10/19 that our case had cleared, and we were on a plane on 10/21 to pick up our little guy.  Words can't express the relief we felt once that plane landed in DC and he was officially ours and officially a US citizen.  Of course it wasn't completely over, we still had 2 more connecting flights before landing in Orlando but just being in America with him in our arms was reason for relief and an end to this long and emotional process.

The 17 hour flight with a toddler was bad but really could have been worse.  He slept very little and most of the flight was spent with either Jana and I bouncing Micah in baby carrier called an Ergo in the area where the flight attendants make/prepare meals.  Perhaps our biggest challenge was his sheer size.  Until you meet him in person you don't really get a feel for his actual size.  He is a solid 28 pounds at 14 months and carrying him while in Ethiopia and on the plane did a number on mine and Jana's small frames......you know as I re-read what I write it makes it sound bad.  The point is we made it home after 29 hours of travel without a meltdown from either Micah or ourselves...that to me is success.

A lot has happened since being home.  I was so nervous for Micah's introduction into our family.....more so in the end then I truly expected.  How out Callie react?  Micah?  Elena?  The dog??  So many unknowns floating around in the air made it a nerve-racking but exciting experience.  Of course the intro couldn't have gone any better.  I will save the fine details of those first moments for our family's memories but I will tell you Callie has been an incredible big sister.  Just watching her interact with Micah for the first time so naturally melted all my worries away.  She wants to be involved in every aspect of his care from feeding, diaper changing, sleeping etc.  Jana and I have also gotten the chance to spend quality time with Micah as Jana's aunt Bev has been staying with us since his arrival doing house hold chores, cooking meals, and cleaning so we don't have to.  This time to really get to know him and him get to know us wouldn't have been possible without Bev's help.

There have been some bumps in the road.  Micah doesn't know "gentle touch" as it pertains to Elena so Jana and I have to maintain constant watch when the two are together to ensure Elena doesn't end up with a block to the head.  That will come with time. He also wants to be with either Jana or I 24/7.  That is such a good thing from a bonding point of view but he literally is attached to our hips. :)

Overall, we continue to adjust well.  Bev leaves this coming Monday leaving Jana and I to fend for ourselves. We are ready and will do just fine.  We so look forward to continue to get to know Micah and help our family adjust to the new addition.  We are all having a great time.  We have appreciated everyone's love and support so much through this process.  Its finally over!!  So happy....