Friday, June 15, 2007

Goodbye Ethiopia, Hello USA!

Today starts our long trip back to the States. We are very excited to be heading home. Of course we’re a little anxious about the plane ride, but we’ll probably be just fine.

This morning we finally met Kurt, our adoption consultant, who arrived at the guesthouse late last night. It was kind of a strange feeling telling him about our stay in Ehtiopia and giving him some tips since he was the one we’ve turned to for answers during this whole process. This is his first time in Ethiopia and his first time meeting Alemu. He is here to visit new and existing AAI-affiliated orphanages and he will also be escorting a child back to the US next week.

After a lengthy conversation with Kurt this morning, Alemu took us to the US Embassy to pick up Mikias’ passport. That was a very quick visit. We were also given a sealed envelope that can only be opened by US Customs in DC when we arrive. This contains copies of all the final adoption decrees and other “official” papers. We sure hope all the correct documents are inside! Following the Embassy, we did some last minute shopping for gifts. Our intention was to get 18 gifts for Mikias’ first 18 birthdays. We did pretty well although Alemu could not assist with the negotiations so we’re not sure we got the absolute best deal.

We will now spend the afternoon packing and getting our things in order for our departure tonight. We need to be at the airport at 7pm to check in for our 10pm flight. We’re not really excited that we have to be there so early, but it is a small price to pay for starting our trip home.

Thank you everyone who left words of encouragement in comments and emails to us. They have definitely helped us during this trying but rewarding week. We look so forward to sharing all of our stories and experiences with you. Our next post on here will likely be from home!

12 comments:

Mandy said...

We are Praying for a safe and uneventful flight home!

Brent, Jennifer, Nikolai and Wags said...

We look forward to meeting Mikias! All three of you look wonderful and happy! It has been great reading your blogs with tears and smiles! Have a safe trip home! Much love!

Anonymous said...

I e-mailed you this morning. God Speed !!!!! I will see you all at the airport.

Love,
Mom K

Anonymous said...

I can't wait be standing there with my Ethopian and American flags. Elizabeth said she plans to hold Mikias and sing her favorite lullaby to him. And, when I was reading your blog last night...Sarah came up and said with out any prompting "Baby Cousin". Our flags are ready...I hope your flight home is speedy and uneventful. Looking forward to seeing you and Ben and sharing in your stories...but, more importantly can't wait to meet the newest member of the family.

God's blessing.
Love, Caroline

Anonymous said...

Ben, Joanna, and Mikias,

May God give you all a safe flight home. And may the "hum" of the engines give little Mikias a good night's sleep.

Love, Dave, Barb, Tracy, and Janice Unger

Anonymous said...

Until we meet, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Love,
Uncle Mark, Aunt Kathy & Carmen

Anonymous said...

Hoping you've arrived home safely now (as I read this saturday afternoon). Can't wait to meet Mikias and see the two of you. What a wonderful experience you've had!
We'll give you a couple days to settle in and then we're gonna track you down!!!
Love,
judy and dan

Anonymous said...

Hope you had a safe flight home! Have fun settling in with Mikias at HOME!!!

Love, The Sigler's

Anonymous said...

God Bless all three of you. It seems like the most enriching, educational and emotional experience. Can't wait to meet Mikias. He is so cute!
Love, Jen and Mark

Sarah Laurence said...

Welcome Home, McKinney Family!
We can't wait to meet Mikias. Enjoy each moment, the time passes quickly :) Love, The Laurence Family

Anonymous said...

Benjamin and Joanna: Congratulations to the both of you; welcome Mikias. I am overwhelmed with joy after reading your story; the pictures are beautiful. As a parent I am reminded how precious the "first" moments of a childs life are. The first time meeting family and friends; the first party; each birthday is a first! May God Bless your family. You are right, Mikias is very adorable! R. Raad

Anonymous said...

Well written article.