Regarding communion, you are feeling the effecs of the Schism. It is real, and it hurts -- it hurts us as well, not to be able to share the fullness of our experience with others, but it is how it has to be. Anglicans consider the chalice to be a means to achieve unity -- Orthodox consider the shared chalice rather to be the ultimate sign and reflection of complete unity. It is the Body and Blood of Christ, and we can share it only with other Orthodox Christians, who share the totality of faith and practice with us.
I, too, am curious about the jurisdiction of the parish you visited, since there was one thing you mentioned that I haven't seen anywhere before. Respond privately, if you prefer.
It is interesting that you immediately noticed the "seamless" quality of Orthodox services. People are often surprised at the fact that services which are so "regimented" (none of the clergy have the freedom to what they want -- every reading and every hymn is appointed in the rubrics) are simultaneously so relaxed, for want of a better term. The combination of deep reverence and comfortableness is different from the western "high-church" approach, at least that which I have been exposed to.
For what it's worth, I'll pass on the advice that was given to me, and that I've heard many priests and experienced Orthodox Christians give others: over time, visit every Orthodox parish in your area -- even those you think you won't be interested in (unless someone "in the know" specifically warns you off from one or more.) Each parish has a slightly different "flavor," and you never know where your family might feel most comfortable visiting for a while.
I would also like to echo Kolokotronis's recommendation to consider some of the special weekday Lenten services. There are some different things about these services, such as the congregation making full prostrations at certain points in these penitential services (which you don't need to do when you're visiting -- just grab a place to stand in the back at weekday services.) Also, don't forget Saturday night Vespers, if they are available at any of your local parishes. These are very popular services amongst explorers, since there is no communion, and since there is a lot of variable material with lots of theology expressed in the course of the prayers. We have a Catholic priest, an Anglican priest, and a Methodist minister who regularly attend our Saturday night Vespers services. The Anglican priest, now retired, is now coming to Liturgy as well. The Vespers service is also shorter than Liturgy (A Russian parish with "Vigil" will have a longer Saturday night service, but it is something that you can feel free leaving after having been there for an hour -- lots of the "natives" with children do the same.)
Just some thoughts... Sounds like things went well, and again, thank you so much for sharing your experience with us.
I was taught in seminary (in theology class) that the Eucharist is at once the forerunner and actuation of the Eucharistic banquet in Heaven. It is both "now" and "not yet." But then, I was taught by a very high church professor.
I understand the rule; I just don't like it.
What was the thing I mentioned that you haven't seen anywhere before?