It's only the beginning...

So, Jenn and I have been at each other's throats the last few days. The reason? Well, we have a TON of work to get done... oh, and we're a bit anxious!

Folks keep asking... well, what types of things do you have to get done? Don't you just get on a plane now? We wish it were that easy!

Because our I-171H expires on 8/26/10, we have to go through a renewal process. If this form expires before we return from China, there is a chance we won't be allowed back into the country. So, instead of taking the risk... well... we want to renew it. The renewal of that form requires a homestudy update. So, our Michigan post-placement agency had to meet with us to get that process going. I'm happy to report the homestudy has been completed and will be submitted early next week. Once that's done, we will begin the renewal of the I-171H. Hopefully it will get renewed in time!

We also have to apply for our Visa because we will be traveling to mainland China. A visa or travel visa is a document which gives us permission to travel into a China and stay there for a set period of time. To get a Visa, we either have to do it in person, have a courier or a friend/family member go on our behalf. The Chinese Embassy for Michigan is located in Chicago... so we're using a courier. That will go out early next week and we should have our passports stamped and back to us within a week.

This morning we are going to our credit union to order money. That's right... we have to order un-circlated or clean, fresh, unmarked $100 bills for our trip. Our agency recommends traveling with $9,000-$12,000 worth of cash. I keep saying I'm going to buy one of those silver briefcases with the handcuff on it. That won't bring any questions as I go through security at the airport, will it?

Then there's little things that we need to do... like housework... clean garage... clean hot tub... wash the clothes we've already purchased... put the stroller together... put the high chair together... etc. etc. etc.

So, what am I doing blogging? I gotta get busy...

Love to all!