It's Almost Time

Well, it has been a very hectic first week of January. Classes started for both Don and me and, as usual, I am flying by the seat of my pants. Trying to get my classes organized as well as prepare for our trip.

Funny, for 2 1/2 years we knew this time would come, you'd think we would be better organized. So much to do and many decisions to make.

1. We went to the bank back in December to get the money we would need to carry into Russia. We thought we had pretty decent bills. It is critical that we only take fairly new or like new, crisp bills - no wrinkles, no tears, no marks, no folds - you get the picture. Well, tonight we decided to check the bills and decided that almost half of them will not be acceptable! Ugh! A few can be ironed to get the wrinkles out but the rest will need to be replaced. At least Don offered to go back to the bank - he is better at things like that.
2. It is a courtesy to take small gifts to those who assist us in Russia. We will have translators, facilitators, director of the orphanage, caregivers, etc.... We thought we were finished with getting our gifts and decided (this week) they were not appropriate for our first trip. So, we were out searching for Florida type gifts to take with us. Not a big deal, but one more thing to add to our "to do" list. I must say, though, I am happy with our new selections - everything is from Florida! We got little sample bottles of Gator Hammock sauce (yummy), chocolate covered orange peels (makes my mouth water just typing it), cool Florida postcards shaped like palm trees, nice key chains shaped like the state of Florida, and boxes of citrus candies. Very Florida!
3. Boots, coats, hats, gloves! Okay, so why do we live in Florida? So we don't have to worry about winter apparel! What a challenge for us. We finally settled on our coats and boots. We also threw in some wool socks and long underwear - we should be fine (we hope). Last weather check, it was -4F and 2 inches of snow where we will be going. Not too bad! Hey, we both walked three miles a day in 6 feet of snow to get to school and back :0)

Actually, we are moving along with gathering everything into the spare bedroom. Tomorrow morning we will get out the suitcases and start packing. I think we have it under control.

I will try to post one more time before we leave on Friday. We have been told there are cybercafes and most hotels have business centers. We will try to post updates on our adventure when we can. In the meantime, please pray that we have a safe, uneventful flight to the other side of the world to meet our little angel.

Blessings,
Elizabeth