Hi everyone,

We are so grateful to be back in our country, our state, our neighborhood, our home! China was an amazing experience, but it definitely left us knowing how fortunate we are to have all the conveniences that we have. We also missed our friends, family & our normal life so much, that it just feels wonderful to have it all back.

We had the most lovely reception at the airport waiting for us as we came off the escalators. Many friends & family had gathered there with signs and balloons to welcome us home. We heard of chorus of "squealing" as they saw us that just sent goosebumps up & down. So nice to see familiar faces! Little Sammy cooperated just great giving smiles to all and letting everyone hold him.

We were at the doctor several times last week as Sammy had something like RSV. He is much better this weekend. He has been such a sweet baby. He is totally attached to Dan, me & CJ, and a little crabby to go to others yet. I don't want to get ahead of myself, but this baby is such a good sleeper so far!! (fingers crossed, no wammies). He is sleeping 12 hours a night, sometimes wakes up for a feeding after about 7 or 8 hours, sometimes not, and takes two nice naps a day. CJ was not a sleeping baby nor is he a sleeping kid, he has Dan's genes, but hopefully baby is taking after mama & the Mansons and continues to be a sleeper!

We went to CJ's favorite twice this week - the aquarium. Sammy isn't crazy about the stroller, just as his big brother wasn't, but he can be carted around all day in the front pack. He is curious about everything, very alert and attentive. This is funny to me, he loves books. I don't know that he's been read a book ever, but he gets so excited to look at books, he just squeals when he sees his favorite panda book coming out.

CJ gets a kick out of Sammy & vice versa. It warms my heart to see the two of them together.

Thank you, thank you again for your love, support and prayers. We felt it all the way in China and it made it so much easier to get through the trip, reading your journal entries, knowing you were thinking & praying for us. We feel truely blessed and can't wait for you all to meet little Sammy!

Much love,

the Tessmers

First oatmeal experience!

Aren't I sweet?

Aquarium outing with CJ & Alissa


CJ still won't get out of his Chinese clothes!