Packed and waiting

Well, it wasn't easy but we're finally packed. Three check-ins and three carry-ons. It took some juggling but we managed to get the large suitcases under 44 lbs each. The two Samsonite suitcases are 18 lbs each- empty. We have one, basic suit case that weights 12 lbs. Six pounds might not sound like a big difference until you are going through your stuff for the tenth time trying to eliminate items to drop a few more pounds off the weight. Advice to those families waiting to leave for China- buy a light suitcase.

Just a few more days. I can hardly believe it. Our flight leaves really early on Friday- 4:30 a.m. shuttle - yikes.

My plan is to post from China so check back in this weekend. I will have Ava at 9 a.m. (China time) Tuesday, March 6. YEA!!

Some of Ava's friends

Some wonderful friends that I've met through the FCC waiting families monthly dinners held a baby shower for me last night. Laura hosted at her home- THANK YOU! Three of the families have their beautiful daughters home so there were four (one set of twins) gorgeous babies at the party. Always so fun to see the babies - I can't wait for Ava to meet her new friends!

CA set for March 14

My consulate appointment came in this morning for March 14. We will be leaving very early on Friday, March 2 and will return home the afternoon of Friday, March 16.

Trying to finalize my packing. There are some things that will have to wait until the last minute to pack but should be able to get most of the items packed this week. Not positive when family day will be but I'm thinking it will be on March 6. Should have the final in-country itinerary later this week and then will know for sure when I get baby Ava!

Only two more weeks at the office- whoohoo. Yes, I am returning but will be off for 17 weeks.

TA has arrived!!

My TA (travel approval) came in today so my agency has made their request for the CA (consulate appointment) for either March 12, 13 or 14. Regardless of which of these days it gets set for, I will leave for China on March 1!!! My agency will start making travel arrangements early next week. I have SO much to do. I've officially been given a wake-up call to get my butt in gear.

Baby Shower at Work

A big THANK YOU to all my Tempe friends that showered me and Ava with beautiful gifts yesterday. And, especially to those that organized it, Amber, Martha, Nikki & Shauna (who wasn't able to attend due to the birth of her son Connor yesterday morning).

Donna had this beautiful necklace made with Ava's photo on the charm- so sweet. The "All About Me" scrapbook set is really cool. It has all the items you need for each page and even a guide on how to lay this out. Ava received her very first, full-size Asian baby doll, it's an American Girl Bitty Baby. The hair clip box is a great idea and I'm sure we'll get tons of use out of it.

Ava received a number of beautiful outfits, shoes, books and gift cards. Thanks again for all the love and support over the many years this process has taken. I'm very blessed to have such wonderful friends. -Michele