We arrived in Toronto on time, and found our way to the baggage claim. The Toronto Airport, in comparison to the large, bright, shiny, and convenient airports in China (and Vancouver) was crowded, dark, and inconvenient. We found the baggage claim almost by accident, down a dingy, narrow corridor without a sign. Claude was kind enough to give us a toonie for the baggage carts (no other airport charged for carts) because our Canadian money was still buried in the luggage. We did not have to wait long, but we were surprised when the automatic door opened, and standing there was Doris, camera in hand, with Bailey, peering in to get a first glimpse. On the next door opening we could see Julie, Téa and Rochelle, with balloons in hand. They were all straining to catch a glimpse of us, and to get a first look at Zhen.
We finally got all our luggage together, and with Zhen fast asleep in Andy's Trekker, we wheeled out. My first hug was for Doris - we were sure glad to see each other. We hadn't been apart for this long for ages. Then, it was time for the new family. Doris and I took pictures while Andy reunited with Julie and his kids. Everyone was so excited (except Zhen, who was still sleeping). I have never seen such a wide beaming smile on Julie's face as when she first saw Zhen. She was soon holding her, still beaming. Rochelle had on her huge Australian smile. Andy was so pleased to have his family together again!
Andy finally put Zhen down on her feet, and this must have been quite a surprise awakening. A new family, everyone wanting to hold her, tickle her, relate to her. Téa held back a bit, not quite sure of this new person. It took a few minutes, but she was soon checking her out, wanting to touch her and talk to her. Big sister is a new role for her!
Bailey was beaming in Zhen's face, wanting to hold her right away. He is going to be a great big brother. Rochelle continued to beam too, taking pictures, looking out for everyone. I took lots of video footage. Zhen seemed overwhelmed. All in a cluster they moved towards the car - Zhen finally a Canadian, finally home, finally with her new family for a brand new life in Canada.
I know she will look back on this record of her adoption in the future with fondness, reflecting all the loving from her adoptive family that went into this adventure of a lifetime. With the great upbringing from such a wonderful family, I am sure that she is going to have a rich, happy, and productive life.
See More of the Arrival Pictures Here
Written and Coded by Proud Grandpa Jim Editing and Colors by Proud Grandma Doris Many thanks to Julie for doing the Welcome Poster on the Home page. Lots of thanks to Andy for hosting this site, and for providing the Photoalbum template to house the pictures. And finally - many kudos to the great parents who were with us on the trip. Their kindness, good humour, calmness, helpfulness, and companionship will be treasured for a lifetime. And as we were told many times in China - "Lucky Babies"!!!
July, 2004
