What to expect

It's been 1 week since we found we are #7 on the list. We've probably moved up some since then, but I don't want to bother the adoption agency on a weekly basis. We'll be hearing from them soon. We think we'll be going in September. Which will be good timing. The boys will be back in school and into a routine which should make it easier for Mark's parents while we're gone. And when we get back it will allow us time during the day with the baby to transition.

I went shopping and bought more of the things we will need for our trip. My friend has been so helpful providing me with a packing list, etc. I actually got out the suitcases and started packing. We are packing 4 suitcases on wheels and each carrying a backpack as a carryon. We will have a third carryon on the return trip for the baby. We'll be packing enough diapers and formula for 3 weeks, so we won't be bringing that home, which will allow room to bring home souveniers.

After we receive and accept our referral, an appointment will be made for our Giving & Receiving ceremony. We need to be in Hanoi by this date. They schedule 4-8 families in a travel group to have the same G&R appointment. So we will be there with other families. This is a great time to form new friendships.

It was recommended that we arrive in Hanoi a couple of days before the Giving & Receiving ceremony to allow time for site seeing. Our baby will more than likely be sick when we get her, so she probably won't be very comfortable. And some of the tourist places don't allow babies. It was also recommended to take her to the SOS clinic the day after we get her so she can get started on any medication she needs. Many times the babies have colds, ear infections, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration; any of these or a combination. Conditions there are not as sanitary as they are here.

The day after the G&R will be the first appointment at the embassy, to apply for baby's passport. A few days later there will be an appointment at the immigration office to apply for the baby's visa. The passport will be ready about a week after application and the visa should be ready about a week after application. So about a total of 2 1/2 weeks. I think that's what they have been averaging.

We've been told to not drink the water there. Don't even open your mouth in the shower. Use bottled water to brush your teeth. Use bottled water for formula. Don't eat any fresh fruits or vegetables because they have been washed or rinsed in their water. I'm looking forward to going, but after 2 1/2 weeks I'll probably be ready to come home. I'll also update the blog while we're there. The hotel we will be staying at has a business center where we can access the internet.