Oh Christmas Tree

First of all I want to thank you all for your suggestions as to what I need for Abby. I knew I could count on you all. If anyone thinks of anymore please let me know :)



Catherine issued a Christmas tree challenge this year so I thought I would post mine. I didn't even put mine up last year and debated putting it up this year since I will hopefully be traveling shortly after the holiday. I didn't use all of my ornaments this year and only put out a few other decorations for that same reason. I am also debating leaving it up until after Abby is home. Two weeks is a long time to leave it unattended and my cats will be looking for entertainment :0

As to where I am in the process for Abby, Here's a mini update. The visas have been ordered. I am still waiting for TA and have not heard anything yet from my agency. They are still estimating January 3rd but I know of some people that have already received TA and are leaving soon. Rumors say we might hear something this week coming up. Once I receive my TA then we will buy our plane tickets. I have ordered my new and like new money for the in China fees and expenses. I have been going over packing lists and have several piles going in Abby's room. I have my home study update visit on Tuesday. I spent last Friday gathering the paperwork required for the update. Would you believe that I had to be fingerprinted yet again??? That makes 3 times so far. This time it was for my home study update. Virginia has a new rule that you have to be fingerprinted. It was a lot easier this time, I only had to go to my local PD to have them done and the fee was only 10 dollars. Unfortunately it will be 500 bucks for my home study update fee :( I spent today cleaning my house for the visit. Finally, I put in for family leave at work. My last day is December 30th. (assuming that we do in fact leave on Jan 3rd) In the meantime I am walking around with excited butterflies in my stomach. People say this part of the wait is the hardest but it really has not been so bad for me. These almost 4 weeks that have passed since referral day have just flown by. I'm glad too! I just can't wait to get my arms around Abby and kiss those sweet cheeks :)