Thank goodness we are back in the great and warm land of the United States of America, after a wonderful, exhausting and surreal journey to begin our family. (On the day we left Moscow, it was 10 below zero, with a windchill of 25 below.) Payne and Mary Katherine were wide-eyed most of the three flights (Moscow to JFK, JFK to Atlanta, Atlanta to NO). Obviously, they had never seen that many people of experienced that many new sounds and sights, having only lived primarily in two rooms all their lives. Transatlantic travel with a toddler and an almost toddler who were "released" from an orphanage is an experience for which most people will not have the pleasure. It is heartwarming, intense, earpopping, challenging, grueling and joyful - a cycle of emotions which repeats every five minutes.

We arrived at Armstrong International on Friday, February 13th at 11:30 p.m. and were greeted by many of our dear friends and family, complete with a jazz band playing "When The Saints Go Marching." Needless to say, dry eyes were a precious commodity. Mary Katherine and Payne were presented with Mardi Gras beads that kept their entertained while they were placed in car seats for the first time ever. (In Russia, car seats for children are not mandatory.) We drove home as a family, with Thad as our fearless car pilot.
Upon arrival at 1909 Milan, more well-wishers were present to enjoy Champagne, cake and the most wonderful sandwiches. Meredith and Traci thanks for organizing everything/one and for making our homecoming the most memorable event of my entire life. At 3:00 a.m. - after 36 hours of no sleep for the Thomas clan - dreams of sugarplum fairies danced in our heads.

Best regards to all of you who prayed/thought about us during our journey. Words cannot express how much love we felt while in Moscow. See how the lives of Mary Katherine and Payne unfold at www.thethomaskids.com.

Georgia and Thad