Yes, we're home!

Yes, we have made it home. Didn't realize how hard it would be to get on-line with the holidays and two additonal feet running around.... Ok, so not running around, but typing isn't so easy holding the additonal two feet :)

We made it back fine. God was watching over us and didn't have us coming through Chicago! We did last time - and had thought about it, but luckily, considering the weather, we avoided it this time. Our only delay was in Detroit - because our flight from Amsterdam was deverted to Ottawa Canada for a Medical emergency on our flight. (a woman had a heart attack, I pray things turned out OK) Luckily we also built in a 5 hour layover in Detoit to see my sister, so we had plenty of time to catch our next flight and still get in a 1/2 hour visit with her!!!!!

We are settling in, trying to convince Ahlyana that Dreyden isn't always hungry or always needing a diaper change. She sure is a big helper! We are also still trying to get Dreyden's days and nights straightened out - This is a process - if anyone has any ideas, I'd love to hear them.

WARNING THIS IS GOING TO BE LONG!

I just wanted to note some things to future parents traveling to pick-up their children.

1. Lots of water - we brought individual packets of gatorade in our carry-ons and packed extras in our luggage - it was great in the layovers in the airports and on the plane - you don't want to be dehydrated!


2. Pack light! Depending on your stay, you don't want to have to many checked pieces of luggage. Most of your hotels will do laundry and it' cheap! Much better than worrying about losing another bag or trying to cart it around (especially after picking up your child)


3. At the Embassy, there is a US Citizens "lounge". Use it! Much less crowded and there is a computer there for you. If you are waiting for the Visa interview, just make sure they know you are in there, as the announcements cannot be heard!
4. I posted it earlier, but wanted to mention it again. I would strongly suggest that you have your driver pick you up in about 1 1/2 hours from drop off. If you're not there have them circle around every 15-30 minutes. Much easier than trying to call them!


5. Bring baby Vicks, saline nasal spray and infants Ibuprofene! Most of these kids already have runny noses because of the weather changing.

I think that's it for now - I'll add more as I think of it.

Now for some pictures!

The precious first moment!

Yes, Dreyden there really is a Santa!

(Our hotel had a Christmas party for the local children in Calcutta, he made a special stop in our room)

Just before heading to the airport for our 5 hour delay in Calcutta.

The hotel in Delhi was beautifully decorated, including all the wonderful Christmas treats below the tree - very ornate gingerbread houses.

Our driver for our entire trip in Delhi.

Almost home - - Landing at our local airport.

First photo as a family of 4!!!! Praise God.