Real Goodbyes

Uncle Herschel came up for our last few days in the States:

Gabrielle thinks this is why:

They still try to mimic his elephant impersonation

Then we loaded our gazillion bags into his truck and headed to the airport for our venture back to Asia.

And the airport goodbyes:

Shiloh in this pic cracks me up!

And then there is this....

The floor of JFK, he is the only one who slept there. But since they bumped us all up to business class for the 15 hour flight we all were able to sleep well.

And that ends our Summer 2016 stint in the U.S.A.

Soccer goodbyes...Oct 1

Bella scores!

We bring snacks...

 The run-through tunnel at the end of the game.

 goodbye to sweet friends...

 Bella really loved these girls...

The team:

Time spent...

Oct 1, 2016

CC showing she still has it as a twirler. 

skillz folks...

And Sophia wasted no time catching on...

And Tobin got a private ride in the airplane as Poppy drove it on a short trip.

One of the best things about this STAS was the closeness to Poppy and CC's house and thus the time spent doing the ins and outs of the day with them. Sure, as you have seen, LOTS of special events and exciting outings occurred and will not be forgotten, but the simple twirling lessons on the lawn and scooter riding on the carport and park visits with these folks that love us so is what made it incredibly special. 

And so you know that I was actually there, a picture to prove it.

Last Days in USA: The Williams

 You can't leave the U.S. without decorating pumpkins

 We had a spectacular last day with the Williams crew:

 pumpkins, skittle card games, and cousin connecting...

And these two...so many discussions, insight, wisdom, laughter....
they spur us on. Family sure, but precious friends most of all.

Last Days in the USA: Soccer, Gym, Princesses, Skating

 Bella's last game. This girl loved her some soccer, played hard, and scored lots of goals.

 Tobin too, wasted no time getting the ball in the goal.

 His team:


climbing the rope at gym class:

New princess dresses and CC's old batons,  

 And the skating rink all to themselves

 Limbo....!!!