Waiting and preparing...

No news yet on the court date, but based on the comment St. Clair left (i.e. that she's with Adoption Avenues, accepted her referrals on June 13th, and just got a court date for October 3rd) it seems unlikley that our court date will come before hers. So I'm betting our court date will be sometime mid October...and baby ready to travel mid November.

Baby is almost 5 months now, and 8 pounds. So, in November she'll be 9 months old...and she'll likely weigh about 11-12 pounds if she gains weight now that she's eating regularly. That means her clothes size is 3-6 months (newborn clothes go up to 8 pounds, 3 months about 12 pounds, 6 months up to 15-16 pounds). So I've purchased some adorable infant clothing in sizes ranging from 3 months - 18 months (mostly 3-6 months and 6-9 months).

We've been busily 'fixing' up our home and creating more space. Haley's like "Mommy, we're getting everything new..." Not quite 'everything', but we *are* trying to complete some long-standing projects...both in preparation for Baby Sister, but also in preparation for a 10-12 day trip away from the house. Such as sprinkler installation, and updating the doggies vaccinations and securing the yard so they don't get out (just in case they start to get restless in our absence).

I've started assembling our medical travel pack.

Ian's wonderful daycare family has graciously 'saved' a spot for Baby Sister (so both kids can be together).

We've recruited at least one other recently adoptive family to hand down their baby daughter's stuff to us rather than simply throw it away.

I've started thinking about what to bring as donations to the orphanage. I wonder if we should bring clothing. I wonder if I could simply pack a box of the kids clothes that no longer fit...and donate those? Would they be offended if I brought used shoes? Should I get something for the adults taking care of the kids?

I think I've selected a travel agency.

I've sent the agency the last check (which was due when the referral is accepted).

I've informed my work that I'll need some time off...'but I'm not sure when exactly.' They were way cool...and said they'd help in whatever way they can. I'm realizing that lots of the partners travel to 3rd world countries and volunteer, or otherwise collect medical supplies and send them to various countries in need.

Hubby informed his work too, but as an employee, he gets FMLA, paternity leave, sick days, vacation, etc...so there was no problem there.

And Sister has gotten all her vaccinations and updated passport. She has notified her job of this planned trip...and is super excited to actually be planning a trip to Africa!!

Basically...we just getting ready...
...and waiting for a court date.