Home

  After more than 30 hours of travelling, Isaac, my dad, and I arrived home to Vancouver on February 9, 2014. Again, Isaac was a superstar traveller which I was incredibly grateful for. Arriving in the Vancouver airport was incredible. It's hard to explain all the emotions that were running through me in that moment. Most pressing was get me off this plane and into my husband's arms. We made our way through customs and Canadian immigration. Again, a very smooth process. It was very exciting to think of Isaac as a Permanent Resident of Canada. I can only imagine how proud I will be when he becomes a full Canadian citizen. After gathering our (many) suitcases, we made our way to hand in our customs' card to the last official. All I was thinking at that moment was "don't cry, don't cry" because I had a feeling that once I started I wasn't going to stop. However, once we were through and walking out into the arrivals area, the dam burst and the tears started flowing. It was the absolute best feeling to be home and see my family again. To be able to introduce Isaac in person to everyone and just bask in the feeling of love and joy that surrounded us. No more Skype. We finally had real hugs and kisses. I'm sure Isaac was a bit shell shocked by the whole ordeal, but he willingly went into his Dad's, Aunty Kate's, Nana's and Great Nan's arms. I was so proud of him. He seemed to know that this was his family, that these were the people who he spent countless hours "talking" on Skype with, and that these were the ones who love him. We arrived home on the eve of Family Day, a relatively new stat holiday in BC. It seemed rather fitting and incredibly special to be waking up and spending the day as a family - just Markus, Isaac, Gibson, and I. 

The weary travelers - we made it!

With Auntie Kate

  Since being home, we've had so many visits with friends and family. We've been showered with love, joy, and lots of presents. I have been amazed with the outpouring of love we have received from everyone. Isaac has settled into his new house and I hope he understands that this is it. No more moves. He's home and I couldn't be happier. After sleeping briefly in his travel bed, he transitioned to his new crib and new room. He has a roommate - our dog, Gibson, sleeps under his crib every night. I like thinking that Gibson takes his role as night protector very seriously. Life has settled down and for that I am thankful. I finally feel like I can be the mom I hoped to be with Isaac now that the adoption stress is done. This was truly a life adventure that I never imagined myself on, but now feel like this was what I was meant to do. However, I'm happy to be adventure free for awhile. To be stable and settled in one spot with my family surrounding me and Isaac in my arms.  

Wow, snow's lots of fun, but cold. Brrrr!

Isaac and his Auntie Christina.

In Pemberton with Grandpa and Grandma