Air shipment

Well, the air shipment is packed up and ready to go. We were able to pack a 5 X 5 X 4 foot box full of things we really would like when we first move. I guess it won't leave the country until Ted does. It should arrive Saturday but will take some time to clear customs. I hope that it doesn't take too long to get through and that nothing is damaged and/or stolen. Ted is all packed up and is ready to start this new challenge set before him. I on the other hand am in denial, just wanting to stay in my nice little box in Illinois. I do not want to move...as Juanita and Karen have reminded me that is fine, I don't have to want to move today just in January! Oh wise women they are. So I am praying for an attitude adjustment tonight. I think my emotions are more in an uproar since Ted is preparing to leave. I wish we were all going because the waiting is getting old. BUT that being said, I can't imagine going not knowing what our housing situation is.
Ted will be busy enough looking for a house, learning his new job and just figuring out India. I am sure he will appreciate emails and even phone calls...once we know for sure the Vonage will work there.

Getting things checked off

Well, time is approaching for Ted to head to India. It is hard to believe that at one time we were all supposed to be heading the end of October as well. Ted is anxious to get started about the job. Unfortunately he has the task of finding a home for us as well. I am hoping with the new real estate company and email that I can be included on housing information as well.

Our pile for the air shipment is rapidly growing. We are trying to make a list for the sea shipment as well but that is tricky since we don't know what the house will have and won't have. That shipment won't leave until the later part of November so we do have some time. We purchased Millie's air crate and I have confirmed that it is indeed what we need. I am still trying to figure out for sure what kind of documentation we will need to bring Millie to India. It is very confusing! I have asked one of Ted's colleagues to call a quarantine officer in Chennai to figure out exactly what is needed. We are struggling to figure out how to get Christmas gifts to India. Unless they are small and can be put in our luggage they will need to be sent in the sea shipment...before Christmas. So how does one open up a present that is not there? Please share any suggestions!

We have our last round of shots tomorrow afternoon. The kids are not looking forward to anymore but are relieved that this will be the final trip to Caterpillar! The nurse has been great with the kids. After shots Mason has his 6ht grade band concert and will be in the Jazz band as well. He is so excited about music this year. He has really improved on his saxophone.

Tonight we had our 4H meeting and were thrilled for the new leaders that will take over while we are gone! Thank you BW and KK for resuming this post. It has weighed heavily on my mind to have to vacate this position after a year but Lord willing we will be back soon! 4H is such a great thing for kids and we have an awesome club. It seems slowly but surely we are weaning ourselves away from responsibilities here. The goats have already left (and will have their first babies in February~Claude better send photos!). We have homes for the cats (unless we decide to take them with) and homes for our 2 other dogs. I think I have a home for my hens but need to double check. We have the truck put up for sale (2005 Nissan Titan) and will list our 03 Honda Odessey van soon.

Feel free to continue to pray for our family as we make this transition. We have been so comforted by all the support and encouragement from our friends and family...thank you! We know that God is in control always, we just need reminders sometimes!