Let Go and Let God

Airplane Day!

(Image by Korean Air)

I remember it like it was yesterday; holding Bo on my lap as we taxied down the tarmac at Incheon International Airport in South Korea.

As we looked at the mountains surrounding us and the finals sights and sounds of this beautiful land... knowing that we were taking him away was such a bittersweet moment.

But about 12 hours into our flight, excitement mounted knowing he was going to get his first glimpse of America and would soon meet his brothers and sisters and the family and friends who have all loved him and prayed for him for 18 months.

Our friends Warren and Dave and Marianne drove up to Chicago to meet us. After anticipating the long non-stop international flight with a 19 month old, we just didn't know what kind of exhaustion we would have upon arrival and felt it would be wise to have someone drive us and our truck down from O'hare.

After going through immigration and Customs, it was such a blessing to see familiar beaming faces to greet us: truly warm memories we'll never forget!!

"Happy Gotcha Day, Boaz!!"

We decided to celebrate the day Boaz officially entered our family by camping out at Comlara Park on Lake Evergreen in Hudson, Illinois. Not only is the location about as picturesque as you can find in Central Illinois, but it's only 20 minutes from our door: a toddler parent's necessity.

Our campsite was right near the lake ... weather was perfect ... the kids enjoyed exploring before chili dogs and Smores (made with what Eden refers to as "Smashmellows": which is pretty much what hers look like when she's eating them...)

Outdoor air makes for good sleeping!! This little guy was the last one awake this morning! ♡

Enjoyed hardboiled eggs & oatmeal before Daddy surprised the kids with a box of donuts!!!!

Throwing rocks in the lake after breakfast makes for a great start to any kid's day... we're so glad you joined our crew,  Boaz!

[Print by Bumble & Bristle]

One Year Ago...

Tomorrow, September 13th 2018, is your "Gotcha Day!" One year ago, we returned to beautiful Korea to welcome you, Boaz Gaon, into your forever family.

One year ago we began to bond with you... first in your own world...

We embraced you and your heritage...

Your birth city: Seoul, South Korea

And then it was time to fly to your new home in America!

You were excited to see your favorite Korean cartoon coloring book...

You slept 7 hours on the 14 hour plane ride!

You loved riding in mama's pack through the airports. 

Joyfully we welcomed you to our world...

We welcomed you into our family...

We welcomed you into our hearts! 

Happy "Gotcha Day!"

We L♡VE you, Boaz Gaon Schurter!!!