Back in the USA

Michael and I arrived in the USA on July 17th after a 10 hour flight across the ocean. Definitely not a fan of long flights, but hopefully it will be the last for a while. When we arrived, Michael, for the first time, was allowed to walk into the US Citizen line with me. It may sound silly to y'all, yet to us, it was really exciting because it meant that he was finally on his way to becoming a US Citizen! Actually, it was a bit confusing figuring out which line to put him in as he did not actually qualify for either of the lines. However, being married to me made moving through lines much easier. Anyway, once we got up to the desk, the computer broke down so we had to change lines. Then we had to go over to "the room" for more paperwork and processing. Finally, after about 45 minutes, we got the official stamp in the passport with the Green Card number. The actual card would be here anytime within the next month to six months. After that activity, it was time to collect Manga and the bags. Boy was she glad to see us. We had to go into the inspection area since we were carrying a dog with us, but that went rather smoothly. There were a few more steps to getting out of the airport; nevertheless, around 6 we saw my parents waiting for us the baggage claim. It was really great to see them especially after the emotional departure from Cairo. All throughout the plane ride and even once we were in Atlanta, Michael and I kept looking at each other in shock that we had actually landed in the USA with everything we needed. In fact, I think that we are still a bit shocked that we are really here. Moving on, we had a three hour car ride home of which we passed out within 20 minutes of setting foot in the car. When we got home, the family had made a sign welcoming us home. In fact, the spray paint has temporarily stained the driveway so we can still see it whenever we want.

The very next day after arriving in Knox, Michael hit the ground running. The most important order of business was going to see HP #6 of which we did. I have to say that we rather enjoyed it. Then the next six days would consist of buying a car/insurance, applying and getting Michael's Social Security number, figuring out what to do about banks, some shopping, and beginning of process getting him the TN driver's license. Anytime we went somewhere official, everyone was amazed that he spoke such good English, and the passport confused everyone. Most did not know how to properly open it; furthermore, they all thought that he had to have the actual Green Card to do any official work. After explaining what Immigration had said, most went to their supervisors to ask about the situation, and guess what, we were right about using the stamp in the passport.

Our new car is a used white 2008 Kia Optima. Michael and I just love it. The car runs very well and is a nice sized family car for four. Not that there are twins on the way or anything, y'all will know when those are on the way, but for the future and stuff. Michael is slowly looking for jobs. There are plenty of options, but he wants to be sure that he gets a good one since moving is a huge pain.

Oh, we each celebrated our birthdays while here. Michael got a Netbook and I got a Wii Fit. However, Erin gave me this awesome t-shirt that made me part of the Varsity Quidditch team. Very exciting!!!!! Food is just amazing here. We are loving every minute of it. Also, Manga just loves the USA. She wanders around the yard, explores the ivy, goes on lone walks without stray dogs charging at her, and digs out old toys from our old dog.

Well, that's about it for us right now. We miss everyone in Egypt a lot. Come visit when you can!