The Arrival

When I flew in to IA last week, I knew I was getting picked up from the airport by my parents. I was SO excited to finally land and when I made my way down to the baggage area, I was already searching the crowd to see their little faces standing where they usually do.

However, they weren't there. I panicked - how could they forget what time I get in? Is it possible that they're actually late for once in their lives?

I then see the side of my dad's little sparrow legs as I try to walk around a couple older ladies in front of me, but there is somebody else coming towards me. Now mom is smiling and waving and all of a sudden I hear, "MARCIE!!" and little feet come running my way... my niece and nephew were there to greet me, too!

Shocked and surprised are the only words that can describe that moment. Then the flood gates opened.

I picked up Keegan and he's got a death grip on my neck hugging me. I look down at Zoe and she has her hands in her pocket and she said, "I'm gonna be SIX tomorrow." I smile and say, "I know! I can't believe it!" I put Keegan down and pick up Zoe to give her a hug, too. Keegan says, "And I found a penny at Starbucks!" as he pulls out the coin to prove it. Zoe points out that I'm crying 'a lot' and I told her it was because I was so happy to see her - she let me know that she's not crying even though she's happy to see me too... ah, the honesty of kids...