We made it

We made it. We survived the 21hr flight and transfer in Russia. Total = 24hrs of travel time.

The flight went better than we anticipated. After calming our nerves and figuring out a way to block Roxana from getting out of her seat (lots of pillows and blankets), we managed to sleep a little and Roxana slept 5hrs straight the first leg (10hrs); however, she didn't fall asleep until 8:45PM Houston time. Thank God for flying Business Class (Thanks Exxon) and seats that turn into beds. The first flight crew to Singapore gave her extra toys and milk; she was a hit. :) The passengers around us were also lovely.

The transfer in Moscow was a bit stressful and cold (even though we were inside), but we made it back to our gate in time to board our second 10hr leg of our journey. We felt like experts at this point, blocking Rox in her seat, giving her toys, snacks and sometimes ignoring her so she could fall asleep. She managed to sleep 5hrs again (off and on) and both Steve and I were able to rotate shifts, watch a movie and nap. The Singapore Airlines crew are amazing; helpful, kind and attentive.

It was a long 24hrs of flight and transfer time, but we made it and we are so proud, that we supported one another, stuck together as a team and survived! :) We honestly felt like we climbed the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu all over again.

Once we arrived to Singapore at 5AM, Jan 7, we were in a daze. Our driver was so nice pointing out neighborhoods and giving us tips, but I can't remember half of it, Rox fell asleep 2 minutes after we got into the van and slept the entire way. I do remember thinking downtown skyline was something out of a postcard and the streets were immaculate; every one drove very orderly. Upon arrival to our interim apartment (8th floor), someone was outside waiting for us and we were quickly escorted to our apartment; a 3 bedroom, 2 bath cute little place. With a small, but cute kitchen, living room and dinning room. We have a view of the pool area, which is huge (kiddie pool, lap pool, etc.), we have yet to explore the other areas of the residence. The weather is hot, humid and it's very bright.

I have to give the Gold Star to Roxana, she's done the best with the jet lag and has kept our spirits high when we've been overwhelmed with our new city. What a little blessing she is. Lesson learned - Your kid will come through when they need to.

This picture doesn't need words. Steve and Rox sleeping during the flight (I woke up to this). Steve later told me he crawled into her bed to calm her down.

Steve is happy to stretch his legs and Rox is over the traveling thing.

Next up: Shopping in mega malls, figuring out the MRT (metro) and city living with a toddler; oh and yummy food everywhere.

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