Sunday, July 08, 2007

T-Minus 5 Days and Counting

So, we leave for Ethiopia next Friday this Friday. WE LEAVE ON FRIDAY!

Are we all ready? Ha ha ha. That would be a big fat no. We do have almost everything we need, but until yesterday it was all dumped in a pile in the middle of Anna's room. I removed packaging from new items and reduced the pile to 45% of its previous size. Good grief, no wonder our Earth is in trouble.

Thursday night we went up to Portland since Aaron had to have an x-ray and doctor's visit early Friday. We stopped at Target and bought some gifts for our Compassion girl who we will get to meet! Hoo boy, that shopping was fun. I can't imagine the fun those adopting older kids have picking out everything for them.

The doctor said Aaron's recovery is right on track and the weird symptoms he is still having, like coughing and night sweats, are not unusual. That means they can't do anything for you; you just have to wait it out. He is getting stronger all the time, though. We got out and about for the fireworks on the 3rd and 4th, and he got to see a lot of people. Is there anything better in summer than fireworks where the river meets the sea? I think not.

We are now in the period of Lasts and Nexts. Last time going to church just the two of us. Next time we go out to eat, we'll need a high chair. Last time I use or wear or wash things before I put them in the suitcase. Next time I want to zip into the store I'll have to unbuckle and rebuckle a car seat. Last time grilling steak on a Saturday night without a side of baby food. Next time you see us, we'll have our baby with us. (Last time you'll pay any attention to us.)

It is strange and surreal to think that the next time we do a lot of things, we'll have to do them completely differently. People keep saying, sometimes in a cryptic warning whisper, "Your lives are about to completely change." I say I know, yet I have no idea. But really, isn't that the point? We're doing this so that our life together, as wonderful as it has been thus far, does change and grow and expand. That doesn't mean I know what it will feel like to be in the next phase, but I think it's like marriage--you can only be so ready, and then you just do it, a day at a time.

I don't know how to get any more ready.

Except packing...
And laundry...
And cleaning up...
And finishing work...
And running errands...
I gotta go.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

Last time your journal childless. Next time you journal you'll have pictures of you two with Anna.

Jenny said...

I'm sorry Wendy, that last bit cracked me up! Only because I have that exact same list at my house. We're down to just under 3 weeks. I'll be waiting for your stories when you get back!

Amy said...

I have to thank you for continued journaling. Aside from being SO excited for you guys, I am reliving our own adoption when you write about your preparations. So thank you for having Doug and I review the wonderfulness all over again.

Unknown said...

I love you in large amounts.
That is all.

Jenny said...

Hey Wendy - shoot me an email, I have a cute pair of girl's bibs that I accidently bought. Thought I'd send them your way if you want! They're 3-6m, but unfortunatly, Chuck won't let Joshua wear girl clothes!!

Jenny

Carrie said...

Your post brought me back to exactly how I felt right before my first child was born. *goosebumps* It's an exciting and terrifying adventure. Believe me, you won't remember what you life was like before once that little girl takes over!

Anonymous said...

I love this post!!! You made my night.

Have a great trip! Enjoy your little one! Hooray!

Wendy said...

Uhh, thanks...Anonymous?

Anonymous said...

One of the ladies I tutor with is also adopting from your agency.They are still waiting on a court date I believe but we ended up getting into a long conversation today about Ethiopia et al. I'm so excited for you! I must admit I am also a bit jealous... I want it to be my turn! Take lots of pictures to share, I'll be praying for smooth everything and a safe trip!

Unknown said...

Take good care of that iPod.
She's my unclaimed music love-child.
...
I hope I don't get flamed for that one.
I'm semi-Christian too!

Anonymous said...

Woohoo! We're praying that your trip is safe & smooth, and that all goes well for the....THREE of you!

Kendra

RMMcDowell said...

Amen. You are so beautiful. As a mommy waiting and as a mommy holding your child. I can't even express to you how happy I am for you.

Anonymous said...

Yeah! I have been thinking of you guys and Anna too, all week! It's time to bring baby girl home!

Unknown said...

OHHH MY GOODNESS! PRAISE GOD THE TIME IS HERE! God has definately put you two through trial after trial to make sure that you are ready to be "you THREE!" In just a short time two of the most influential people in my life will be a mommy and a daddy! I can't even tell you how lucky Anna is to have parents like you two. As I sit here and write this I can't help but to get choked up a bit because of all the people that I can think of, nobody deserves this amazing blessing more than you two. God bless your trip and I hope that there aren't any delays so you can see you most precious daughter ASAP!
I love you both!