It was a long day. We left the White Swan Hotel at 5:30 a.m. The van was loaded down-we had a few more suitcases than we came with… not to mention our darling little AngeLina! I was a bit sad to leave… not sure if we would ever return to such a fabulous country! I can not say enough about the hospitality and kindness of the Chinese people that we came across. We will never forget this amazing journey. Our trip to China couldn’t have been better!
I wish that I could say that the plane ride home went as perfectly. Airports always cause anxiety. The White Swan had packed each of us a breakfast box to eat in the airport. The security guards took the water and yogurt from each box. We all enjoyed the muffins and banana bread! Fortunately, I could keep the ear drops and baby medication! It seems that we went through two-three security checks where they checked our bags and made us take out most of the contents. Trying to carry luggage and a baby through the airport was exhausting for all of us. We flew from Guangzhou to Tokyo. The ride was a bit turbulent. AngeLina slept and was a little angel. We had a short lay-over in Tokyo- we all enjoyed a McDonald’s cheeseburger and fries. AngeLina loves french fries! She is adjusting to the American diet already! We boarded the plane for Detroit- there were so many people! Shortly into the flight, Bradley got sick—my poor big baby! AngeLina was clinging to me, Bradley was throwing up for almost eleven hours straight, and Richard was still not enjoying flying! This long flight was more than a bit turbulent—I said a prayer many times! Aaaaagggghhh! I can’t feel too sorry for any of us, after such a perfect trip! It does make it even better to be home!
When we landed, AngeLina became a United States citizen! Yeah! It is hard to believe that this part of our journey has come to an end—a new life is just beginning for us all! We waited in more lines and had our luggage checked a one last time before finally exiting the airport security area and hitting the cold winds from the outdoors! Burrrr!
AngeLina did very well in the car-seat for the first time, when it was moving! She didn’t like it when the car stopped! When we got home, we had a quick bite to eat and took a long nap! We woke up after 11:00 pm, ate pizza and went back to bed! AngeLina did meet Jake and Max. They were so happy to see us and quite curious about the new “Hoffman” that we brought home! Jake slept by her. She is still a bit hesitant and unsure about them—Max could be considered dinner! At least she is screaming when they are around! Jake is so gentle with her and Max stays clear! AngeLina didn’t even get to see her room! There is always tomorrow--- thank God we are home!
Thank you all- friends, family and strangers for following our amazing journey! We are grateful for your prayers, blessing and kind words! The positive messages helped us feel connected and showered us all with love. We are truly blessed!
In His love, Richard, Sherri, Bradley and AngeLina
