Reflections From Four Years Ago

Celebrating Gotcha Day!!!!



Today I thought it might be cool to share some photos of what we were doing four years ago. Basically, spending the day at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago WAITING for a precious gift from God. Pictures indeed say a thousand words.

I've been reminiscing with the e-mail files I have saved from this time in our lives. I look forward to sharing "day one with our new daughter" tomorrow, March 26, but for today I found an e-mail sharing our good news with family and friends....

Letter dated March 23, 2003 - 8:03 p.m.

Hello Everyone,
We just wanted to share the exciting news that Abigail will be escorted from South Korea to O'Hare International tomorrow - Tuesday!! She turned 5 months old today. And for me, personally, I could not have a better birthday present!
She arrives on United Airlines International flight #882 at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday. Two other Lifelink Adoption Agency families are also receiving their children tomorrow. It should be quite a gathering at the international terminal tomorrow!
Thus far we have 3 vehicles going to O'Hare to greet our new daughter and welcome her home. Please pray for a safe flight for Abigail and her escort, Mrs. Cho, and for all of us traveling.
The camcorder is charging, the diaper bag is packed. A few things to do in her room yet this evening. I feel too excited to sleep, but I suppose Jesse and I should try to get to bed early since we are sure to have several sleepless nights trying to get Abigail adjusted to the 12 hr. time difference. Please also pray for her to settle in readily.
If you respond, please understand that we may not get back to you right away. I hope to have some pictures to e-mail within the next 24 hours from the digital camera. Also, I am taking 4 weeks off of work, so please don't send e-mails to my office. Thanks to everyone for the support you have given us since we began the process 15 months ago!!!!!!
-Rita