We have our flights!

We finally have an actual date that we are heading to Kaz. We leave on Sunday, December 27th and arrive in Petropavlovsk on Tuesday, December 29th. The weather, we hear, is a brisk -25 degrees (on a good day). We have done our best, as good as any Californian can do, to prepare for such chilly conditions, but have a feeling we will be underdressed.

It has been a very busy couple of weeks, finishing up paperwork, packing, and all those last minute things that we could not have really prepared for ahead of time. We have three large pieces of construction paper on our wall with a checklist of all the things that must be done before we travel. I can say with a smile, that all but two boxes have been checked off.

One of the hardest parts of our trip, is leaving Ben and Sam behind. As much as we would like to share this with them, we knew that it truly was best that they stayed with our family at home. Although we have been discussing with them for the last sixteen months how we were going to get their sister, the reality did not sink in. Well, now they are realizing that the time has come and that mommy and daddy are really getting on a plane in a few days. They are worried about us leaving, but excited to be able to finally meet their sister. Their thoughts often turn to their little sister as they share with us the things they will teach her, the toys they will share and all the love they will give her once she is here. I am so blessed to have such tender-hearted little boys and am ever so grateful to God to allow us one more blessing in our lives.