here we go...

Beds made.

Mini van purchased and broken in.

Old lamps re-covered to match girls' room. (Yeah, I'm totally proud of that.)

Homeschooling book (mostly) read.

Meet-the-family photo album, courtesy of Mom, set up in bedrooms. (Complete with a "Welcome to the family" recorded message from Mom and Dad -- en español!)

Handmade blankets from David's mom, grandma and aunt waiting on the beds.

Chore chart made.

Beach gear ready and waiting.

Boys' drawers stocked with soccer gear.

 

Big to-do list on our kitchen wall... never finished writing it, let alone completing it. Oh well. Can't win 'em all.

Airline tickets purchased.

Ready or not... here we go! We fly out of New York next Sunday, August 3. We'll arrive in Lima late Sunday night. Monday morning we check in at the adoption office and then fly down to Arequipa Monday afternoon. We'll go to the orphanage either that day or Tuesday, and then... it's go time! We've rented a house in Arequipa where we'll be (with the kids) for about 3 weeks. Then back to Lima for another 2 weeks. Then home, hopefully around September 6th.

In case you are wondering, yes, we are freaking out. Super excited but freaking out.

Thank you for tracking with us on this adventure over the past couple years. We've been deeply touched and encouraged by your interest in our story, your gifts and your prayers, your advice and your enthusiasm. I can't wait to post photos of the kids as soon as they are legally ours!

Stay tuned... :)

p.s. If you've ever wanted to try out Norwex, the chemical-free cleaning products, this is a good time for it. My friend JaNae offered to do a last-minute fundraiser for us and donate 35% of the sales toward our adoption expenses. Orders are due by July 31. Here's all the info: www.facebook.com/davidandkarenmartin