Packing List. I will pull out the suitcases in Feb!

02/27/2008
Well I'm pretty sure I'm going to need a lighter suitcase. We're still waiting on our TA, I'm really hoping for Friday and praying for travel the week of the 10th!!!! I would like to get to Beijing a day earlier than we have to. I just read a blog where something happened and they were delayed somewhere. They would have to put me in a stright jacket, and what if they loose our luggage, that one had not crossed my mind until right now. Can we add that to our long list of things to worry about.



Just got a really neat website (blog) from another parent (thank you so much). http://www.the-ergo-lady.com/ergo-baby-carrier/
This will help me figure out the best way to use my carrier.

02/27 FYI - I still have not figured it out!!!!!!! We are getting Little Man a week from Saturday, so I'll have to do it then.


Packing List . . . . OK, alot of this I put here as I see it and want to remember. No, I'm NOT a lightpacker, in fact, I'm way way on the other side, but I do plan on doing my best at packing light for this trip. I also want to make sure that I have everything Grace may need.
I didnt want you to think I would pack EVERYTHING I put on here. Well I might, and DH just informed me he would be going through our bags and he thought he would be fine with just his one carry on. Yeah, not in my house BUD!

As I continue to read all the Yahoo groups, I'm keeping a list of what came in handy, what people wish they had with them, what they wish they had left! The key is packing light, those that know me, know I suck big time at that. I'm always Over packed! I must be prepared. Must, I just cant help it.
02/27 Well I dont see that changing, I keep going into the dining room where everything is and all I can say is oh my! I can see right now, this packing thing is going to get me for sure.

I just read where someone suggested (and what a great idea) you take clothes that are ready to be tossed (or you got really cheap somewhere) and dispose of them as you wear them. This will make room in your luggage for the items that you bought.
02/27 that wont work either, since I'm growing out of my clothes :( I hope chasing a toddler will help me loose it QUICK

http://www.orphanallies.org/pediatricmedicalkit.html Medications

02/27 I saw Gracie's dr today and he gave me two meds in case I need them. I was very leary of all of these meds, I dont want to over dose her, I still need fever med and cold stuff.


Someone suggested using packing cubes - http://www.travelsmith.com/jump.jsp?itemID=1720&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=packing+cube

she also suggested travel socks ?
http://www.packinglight.net/plight/dept.asp?s_id=0&dept_id=3040&WT.svl=deptnav2

*Note: If you keep yourself VERY well hydrated, body, skin, eyes, and nasal passages, you can avoid many illnesses on long flights! Pack a flight care package to carry on the plane with you. Include Chapstick, Moisture Eye Drops, Face Cream, Sudafed, and Nose Spray (Afrin & Ocean). Nerve Pills - I'm already getting antsy!!!!!

Luggage (one carry money, one passports and paperwork in carryon) In Carryon - pack one change of clothes for both of us, meds, camera, paperwork, laptop

Me - 1 large to check, 1 carry on (backpack) and her diaper bag on way back

Him - 1 large rolling duffle to check, 1 carry on and laptop ???

Her - one backpack with a few toys

Be light!!!!! should take one change of clothes (maybe meds) in carryone

Suggestion to buy there - A large duffel for clothes - put souvenirs in luggage. Leave unused meds at Jennifers Place

Those in Red I have

Paperwork
Copy of Dossier
Addendum to dossier
Brown Envelope did not receive this, not everyone does
Passports (w/ Visa inside)
Airline tickets
Cash (ordered) and credit cards
Money Belt
copies of itinerary
passport photos of each (originals)
original I-171H
original referral
notebook w/emergency numbers and email addresses
fax/phones#'s for doctors/med.insurance
travel insurance
list of questions for CWI & orphanage director - You will forget
ask for western mattress at WS

Adult Meds / Supplies
Antibiotics (Z-pak) got script
Lomotil (?)
Tamiflu (?)
Advil
Antibacterial wipes / liquid
Tissues
Sinus meds
Jet-lag meds
Alcohol wipes
Peroxide
Neosporin

Benadryl tablets
Benadryl (liquid)
Benadryl (cream)
Saline spray
Cold/Flu/Allergy meds (w/cough)
Cough drops
Vitamins
Airborne (or Shaklee supplement)
eye drops
Tums
Pepto Bismal or Immodium tablets (chewable)
lotion
tweezers
nail clippers / nail file
Cipro
Laxative (?)
sleep aids (Ambien?)
first aid kit (bandaids, etc.)
Prescription meds (Paul & Peg)
Pain meds

Baby Meds / Supplies http://www.orphanallies.org/pediatricmedicalkit.html

Antibiotics
Pink eye drops (?)
Digital thermometer (oral and underarm)
Mycelex or Lotrimin (?)
prescription excema cream
Baby lotion
Baby sunscreen _ I have some but I dont think I need it
Pedialyte (powdered)
Baby Tylenol / Advil / Motrin
Baby Benadryl
ear ache medicine
Cold / cough meds

saline spray
baby nail clippers
lice & Scabies meds (Elimite)
dosage spoon / cup
hydrocortisone
Dramine
Senekot (for constipation)

Adult Toiletries

shampoo / conditioner
deodorant - both
lotion
lip balm
brush
blow dryer
curling iron
q-tips / cotton balls
toothbrushes / toothpaste
razors
shaving cream
tweezers
tampons / liners
make up
sun block
bug spray
travel hairspray
toilet seat covers
face wash cloths

Miscellaneous (ok, I cant figure out why it does this spacing thing)

Carry on for Gracie - Red one with ladybugs

Carry on for Paul

Carry on for Peggy - my Christmas present from PaulRay

Lap top computer - we really need this to keep in touch with our boys and at night when she is sleeping.

digital camera

extra batteries, charge and rechargeable batteries

reader for memory card

extra memory card (2)

tissues in small packs
extra batteries - make a list of what needs what
batteries (3 for camera) / chargers / memory cards (need one more)

GPS
cell phones /chargers
converter / adaptor (nightlight to check these out)
*Ipods / headphones

split headphone

small diaper bag
luggage tags

travel pillow/blanket 2
calculator
money/passport holders
plastic utensils
clothes pins
sunglasses
dish detergent or dawn soap pads
ziplocks
cleaning wipes
ear plugs
luggage strap (colored)
luggage locks
disposable snack containers
duct tape flat
Downy wrinkle release
thermos
special book to sign
travel toilet paper
small flashlight
Chinese for Adoptive Parents (book?)
Chinese language card
small sewing kit
travel bible
books / mags to read
Attachment book / info.
China travel book
printed out numbers for Guangzhou places
note pad

See through plastic paper holder (per CCAI)
travel journal - ink pad for foot and hand prints in china
laundry detergent packets (bottle of woolite)
phone number/email for Ann (shopper)
calling cards / China cell phone
plastic sheeting (for under sheets)
clothesline
gum
mailing tube for art work ???
baby carrier ??? She is 28 lbs, I'm thinking I'm going to try and sell it. Nope, DH said keep it
Pencil Pouch w/ paper clips/ pens / rub bands / folder for documents
glasses / cases
flash light ( small )
travel clock this was a very nice Christmas present from a coworker.(thanks Holly) you can even store digital pics on it.

Food

water bottle packets
cheerios / gold fish
peanut butter packets
cup 'o soup
pop tart
bag of candy to hand out to kids
baby fruit (4 pack)
baby prunes

dum dums (suckers)
grits packs

Adult Clothing take 5 outfits each (No White T Shirts - white means death in china)

Walking shoes
Extra pair shoes
Jacket
shirts (long/short)
pants
PJs
unders / bras
socks
bathing suit



Baby Stuff http://www.orphanallies.org/pediatricmedicalkit.html

stacking cups
Diaper bag
baby wipes (huggies purse size and large pack - no napkins are given at restaurants)
baby shampoo
little brush / mirror
baby blanket
lovie / lilly frog
inflatable beach ball
bubbles
board books
magic doodle
slinky
small see n' say
her ladybug backpack

playdough

coloring book/crayons

CD player

her CD's

toy cell phone
sippy cups (2) (soft spout)

diaper disposal bags (scented) in case she gets sick from car/plane ride
baby toothbrush/paste
DVD Player / for long ride home ???????? just dont know if it would be worth it

bibs

Baby Clothes

8-9 outfits
PJs
Jacket / sweater
bathing suit
socks
tights
hats
plastic pants / pull up just in case??????
hair bows
shoes
slippers

Gifts
Red Envelopes
Red gift bags
candy (Hershey minis) for maids/kids
for the ladies I got Bath & Body Works Body Lotion (Sweet Pea)

thinking about coffee for the orphanage director

Gracie's carseat, What a pretty color!

What we need to get: Those in Green are done!!

1. baby books


2. Baby carriers - http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/: MAS66421


3. Car Seat - Britax Marathon http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2934996


4. 2nd Car Seat - for dad or babysitter, etc (up to 40 lbs)


5. Stroller - So far I like this one the best - Quattro Tour Stroller - Windsor (TRU) http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2266282&cp=2255957.2273443.2255983.2256189.2256204&parentPage=family


6. :) Umbrella Stroller - DONE Kolcraft - Okie Dokie Ladybug Stroller (Bonny)


7. Rocker/Recliner for family room


8. Glider Rocker for her bedroom


9. toddler bed


10. mattress


11. dresser- ordered


12. armoire wont be needing this


13. night stand


14. Toybox


15. high chair


16. thermometer -
    
17. Radio Flyer Wagon (for those longs walks to see her mamma and papa)


18. Thermos (to take to China) http://www.thermos.com/Product_detail.aspx?CatCode=THER&SubcategoryID=1&ProductID=277


19. hamper


20. lamp


21. Comforter (crib) set


22. SHOES, SHOES and more shoes - planning on buying several while we are there. I said something about squeaky shoes and DH was like what are you talking about :)

Our To Do List Before our Baby Girl is Home!!!!!!!!!!!

(Those in Blue Are Done)
I'm sure this list will continue to grow.

1. Finish the Paperchase YEAH!!!!!!
2. Print out and put at every phone "The Referral Call" questionnaire
3. Child Proof our House
4. Continue to shop for "Princess Gracie" This is an ongoing thing, It wont ever end.
5. Continue to gather fabric for her "100 Good Wishes Quilt" Have Quilt put together
6. Buy things for the orphanage (my mom just bought 5 very cute outfits for this)
7. Decide on theme for her room
8. Paint, Decorate, and Supply her room
9. Learn Chinese
10. Learn the lullaby "Mama Hao" ("Mama is the Best" in all the world)
11. Prepare a Care Package to send to Gracie (if possible) after referral, make sure to include Family Album and Disposable Camera
12. Order Adoption Magazine
13. Design/Find/Order Adoption Announcements
14. Decide on a Pediatrician, Dr. Bruce Etheridge, he is so sweet, in case you're looking for one
15. Find a babysitter/caregiver and a backup when I'm at work (3 days a week)
16. Continue to read about International Adoption
17. Once we get a referral, track down and buy copies of local/international newspaper
18. Prepare a list of questions for caregiver or foster mom
19. Join and get involved with local FCC
20. Stock up on diapers and wipes - Wont Be Needing These
21. Get in shape. Loose 20 lbs. Start carrying 15 (BETTER MAKE THAT 20 NOW) lbs weights
22. Start a Journal
23. Build a website for everyone to follow
24. Start a lifebook for Gracie
25. Learn how to use camera and video camera BEFORE leaving, Mama got us a new one for Christmas
26. Research, choose, and buy a car seat, learn how to use it
27. Research, chose, and buy a stroller, LEARN how to use it (the first time I took little man to the mall, I seriously could not close the thing. Good thing I was in the Explorer or his mommy would have had to come resue us!!!! They have changed since mine were little.
28. Buy an EXTRA special outfit for her to wear home
29. After Referral, Research Graices province
30. Research post-adoption tasks (birth certificate, re-adoption, SS card, child's new passport
31. Join adoption networks (I am on 13 Yahoo Groups-lost count now )
32. Address baby announcements before leaving
33. Make a list of everything we need for Gracie!.
34. Register at Babies R Us, Target and Amazon for her books
35. Get a Rocking chair (leather recliner) for front room and a Glider Rocker for her room
36. Take a Vacation with DH before Gracie comes home.
37. Practice reposnses to Dumb Questions "Is she your Real daugher?" I hope I never have to deal with this.
38. Choose Godparents/Guardians
39. Start a list of what gifts to take to China (officials, caregivers, etc)
40. Put a stop on mail and newspaper
41. Make sure we have lots of crisp bills (This is Aunt Erins:) Job)
42. Take a seminar in Adoptive Parenting
43. Set up appointment with Dr. Etheridge/Dr Boatwright for a few days after return
44. Send out Thank You's
45. Make a list of what gifts to bring back (Tea Set for Gracie)
46. Start a packing list (make sure have enough of meds)
47. Start / Finish packing for us and Gracie
48. Make arrangements for bills to be paid (online)
49. Make sure house is spotless before leaving.
50. Service Car before leaving
51. Make arrangements for food to be in house upon returning

Our Timeline to Gracie . . . . . . . .

1. (March, 2006) Paul Ray, "Well you can adopt" Joking ???? Maybe
2. (March, 2006) Adoption is on my heart!!!!
3. (April, 2006) Momma & Daddy discuss Adoption, Baba needs lots of prayers!!
4. (May, 2006 - Mothers Day) Mom chooses an agency CCAI, Daddy still iffy!
5. (July 4, 2006) Daddy gives me your middle name. Noelle
6. (July 30, 2006) We signed the application
7. (August 3, 2006) We mailed the application (UPS - Overnight)
8. (August 7, 2006) Daddy gets a phone call from Kathi at CCAI, We're Approved!!
We mailed our announcements that we are adopting.
9. (August 9, 2006) We mailed back our Orientation Packet (UPS - Overnight)
10. (August 11, 2006) We received Password from CCAI
11. (August 23, 2006) Took Passport Photos. Meet Penny online (Summerville CCAI Family)
12. (August 24 & 25 2006) Moma & Daddy apply for Passports
13. (September 6, 2006) Our SW, Linda (From Child of the Heart) called
14. (September 30, 2006) First Homestudy Visit
15. (October 7, 2006) Second Homestudy Visit
16. (October 20, 2006) Filed our I600A and had our Fingerprints taken!!!
17. (October 28, 2006) Our Last Home study Visit
18. Received rough draft of home study report.
19. (December 7, 2006) Received approval letter from DSS. They sent to the report over to immigration on 12/01/06.
20. (December 18, 2006) I called immigration again today! (called last Monday) Our home study was received and approved on the 11th and approved on the 15th. The very nice lady said it most likely went out on Friday, if not it would go out today!
21. (December 19, 2006) OUR I171H ARRIVED TODAY!!!!!!! PRAISE GOD!
22. (December 27 & 28th) Drove our documents to Columbia to be certified by the state.
23. (December 27, 2006) Sent Paul's employment paper to TN to be certified by the county and state.
24. (January 4, 2007) Received Paul's papers back from TN.
25. (January 5, 2007) Send all certified documents (13) to courier to deliver to Washington!
26. (January 12, 2007) Received all documents from Washington!!!!!!
27. (January 16, 2007) Mailed our Dossier to CCAI!!!!!!!
28. (January 17, 2007) Our dossier arrived at CCAI at 10:00 am!
29. (January 22, 2007) Passed critical review, on the way to Colorado.
30. (January 23, 2007) Delivered to CCAI in Colorado at 9:19 am.
31. (January 26, 2007) Our dossier is sent to CCAA.
32. (January 29, 2007) Our dossier is DELIVERED to CCAA!!!!
33. (February 11, 2007) WE ARE LID!!!!!!!!
34. (July 11, 2007) We decide to submit a Medical Checklist for the Special Needs Program
35. (July 16, 2007) Mailed our Medical Checklist to our Social Worker
36. (July 19, 2007) Received faxed copy of MCC from our SW
37. (July 19, 2007) Faxed our MCC to the waiting child program
38. (Fri, Nov 30, 2007) Today I seen the most beautiful little girl on our agency's website. I immediately called and requested her file. They had a list of families wanting to see her file. But this little girl was made for our family. I would worry about her all weekend long. Paul Ray said if it's meant to be, it will happen.
39. (Mon, Dec 3, 2007) Received a phone call from Pam asking if we still wanted to see this file, I said are you serious, yes we do. She told me again that her vision was poor, that's ok, my heart already belonged to her. We sent her file to our eye doctor.
40. (Wed, Dec 5, 2007) We called Pam around 11:30 am to let her know, this was indeed our daughter, how do we bring her home. Our beautiful little girl, Lu Xin Ming born 6/10/04.
41. (Thur, Dec 6, 2007) Received our referral package from CCAI.
42. (Mon, Dec 10, 2007) Sent our LOI to CCAI
43. (Tue, Dec 11, 2007) Our LOI was sent to China
44. (Tue, Dec 25, 2007) We received our PA (pre approval) What a Great Christmas resent!!!!
45. (Sat, Jan 5, 2007) Received Home Study Addendum
46. (Mon, Jan 7, 2007) Sent CCAI Home Study Addendum (by Wed it was sent to China)
47. (Wed, Jan 9, 2007) Received Travel Packet 1
48. (Thur, Jan 24, 2007) Being Re Fingerprinted (received notice 01/14/08)
49. (Mon, Jan 14, 2008) Received Adoption Travel Training CD from CCAI
50.

Her Books. . . .

1. Guess How Much I Love You
2. Goodnight Moon
3. Gigi God's Little Princess Devotional Bible
4. Gigi God's Little Princess
5. Gigi Gods Little Princess, The Royal Tea Party
6. Gigi Gods Little Princess, The Pink Ballerina
7. Gigi Gods Little Princess, The Perfect Christmas Party
8. I Am
9. A Quilt of Wishes
10. Shaoey and Dot
11. Shaoey and Dot, The Christmas Miracle
12. I love you like Crazy Cakes
13. Just in case you ever Wonder
14. Counting Katie's Gifts
15. Tootle
16. Noah's Ark
17. My Little Golden Book about God
18. Cinderella
19. The Poky Little Puppy
20. Prayers for Children
21. I love you Mom
22. Ruby's Wish by Shirin Yim Bridges
23. Shaoey and Dot, A Thunder and Lightning Bug Story
24. Orange - boardbook (mama)
25. Blue - boardbook (mama)
26. Green - boardbook (mama)
27. Red - boardbook (mama)
28. Yellow - boardbook (mama)
29. Purple - boardbook (mama)
30. Slide and Find on the Farm - boardbook (mama)
31. Playdoh Cicus of Colors - boardbook (mama)
32. Rainy Day Friends - boardbook (mama)
33. The Beginner's Bible - Timeless Childrens Stores
34. Dear God Help Me Make Friends (mama)
35. Dear God Why Are There so Many Stars (mama)
36. Dear God Help (mama)
37. My Bible Songs (mama)
38. Bible Stores - In the Begining (mama)
39. My Prayer Book (mama)
40. Parables (mama)
41. Moonbeams, Dumplings and Dragon Boats
42. My First Signs
43. Lovebug by Elizabeth Elias
44. Adeline by Bobby Strickland, illustrated by Kathryn Rathke
45. My Adopted Child, Theres No One Like You, by Dr Kevin Leman & Kevin Leman II
46. Every Year on Your Birthday, by Rose Lewis and Illustrated by Jane Dyer

More Goodies for Grace

My mom and I were in the store last week and look what we found. My mom bought it for Gracie. It's a John Deere Barbie. This gift was approved by her Brother! Most of what I get for her is not. He wants to make her a tomboy and take her hunting and fourwheeling. I cant wait till she gets him in her playhouse having tea! Hey, A mom can dream cant she. You can never have too many books.