Here we are, packed and ready to go. Two checked bags, two car seats, two carry-ons, two kids, one mommy. Jeremiah saw us off at Christchurch airport for our 3 week trip back to the states, visiting family.

Christchurch airport sports a whole herd of plastic duckies just waiting to be arranged into an obstacle course. Milo obliged and we exercised his legs in preparation for the upcoming flight.

Naomi, cheerful as always.

We’re all excited! Milo has actually made this trip before, but of course doesn’t remember, so it’s all a new adventure for him.

A new adventure liberally laced with treats! Milo enjoyed a last fluffy before departing Auckland airport.

Here we are, ready to tuck into the overnight flight to San Francisco.  The most amazing feat: No spillage of dinner, even with teetery airplane trays and Naomi’s waving hands in my lap.   These bassinet seats worked great for us; Naomi got a decent sleep, and even if I saw the clock every hour. We sat next to kid-friendly folks too, always a bonus.

Dawn finally came, and along with it San Francisco. Customs ended up being a non-issue, thankfully, and we consumed a smoothie and a very large (American medium) mocha while waiting to board our last plane to Chicago.

“Does he want to sit in the pilot’s seat?” We poked our head into the cockpit while boarding our last plane and were offered a neat photo op by the pilot.

Season swap complete! There’s a splash park near Omi and Abi’s house, and though the temperatures are only in the high 70s, it feels plenty hot to us.

Ready, Set, Go! Milo has found a playmate almost as tireless as himself in his Aunt Becky.

Naomi likes Perchik! My mom and dad have been taking care of my pet bunny since we left for NZ, and although a bit more docile with age, he’s plugging along well, shedding fur as strongly as ever! Naomi loved giving him big furry kisses which Perchik tolerated admirably.