"Congratulations and Welcome Home"

"Congratulations and welcome home." These words are some of the most precious I have ever heard. Kenneth and I literally cried like babies when the US Homeland Security Officer spoke these words to us as we walked through customs and immigration with our sons. I cannot describe what a great feeling it was to be home. Yes, we had an amazing trip, but there is nothing like when the plane wheels land on US soil. That too, was another moment when both of us began sobbing. Right there in the plane. It feels so good to be home with Aiden and Asa.

Our trip went really well. We met the boys on Thursday morning at the transition house and then went straight to our embassy appointment. Yet another moment of crying took place after we were interviewed and and the embassy official said "Congratulations" and handed us some official paper work for each boy.

At first meeting Aiden was very shy and cautious. Asa is such an outgoing and happy baby that he warmed right up to us. It didn't take Aiden but a few hours to want to touch us and let us hold him. We cannot believe the change we have seen in him just in the last few days that he has been with us. He is starting to use words, in his native tongue, but he is at least talking. He is smiling a lot more. He runs to us and hugs us. He holds our hands and follows directions. He wants us to comfort him when he falls or gets upset. I know he is going to blossom.

Noah is also doing very well. He is a great big brother, even better than we expected. He loves both Aiden and Asa. He wants Aiden to play with him all the time. Just this afternoon when we put the boys down for a nap we heard a lot of laughing and talking before they finally fell asleep. Noah wants to feed Asa, hold him, kiss him, etc. Aiden also wants to be a big helper with Asa. I think they will all get along just fine.

It has been quite an adjustment for our family, and we have several things to work through, especially with Aiden. However, I think in due time, the issues will resolve as he is fed consistently, when he feels secure in our family and loved. Our issues are just minor things like food and sickness with both boys and sleeping schedules with Asa. We would not trade this experience for anything! The boys are a huge blessing! We could not have asked God for better boys than the ones He has chosen for our family. We praise Him for how wonderful things have been.