THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS . . .

Okay, so by this time next week, we'll be on a plane, on our way to Chicago. From there, we fly direct to Shanghai. We found out yesterday that the boys have both been officially accepted to the school we want them to go to. We found out on Sunday night, that we have a place to live. We thought we might have to stay in a hotel for awhile, until we found a place to live. Two big concerns, now taken care of. Thank goodness!

Last weekend was a rough weekend for me. Laura had a Bon Voyage Party for us at O'Connell's on Friday night. There were a lot of people there, which was great. We all felt really loved that night. It also gave us a chance to say goodbye to everyone. Saturday night my cousin got married, so we got to see all of the family. I cried a lot as we were leaving. I knew it would be the last time we'd see them for a very long time. I know this is going to be a very good experience for all of us, but it's still hard to leave everyone behind.

So far we have 6 suitcases, and I'm still not finished packing yet! We're probably going to end up with about 9 or 10 suitcases. I feel sorry for whomever has to deal with us as we go through Customs!

We're also trying to get the house completely cleaned before we leave. So far we have the garage, the basement, the family room, and the boys rooms cleaned. That leaves the kitchen, which I'm about halfway through with, the living room, Sarah Beth's room, our room, the laundry room, and all of the bathrooms. Now, can you see why I'm stressed?!?!?! But it'll all work out. We're leaving on Tuesday, whether the house is cleaned or not!

Tonight we're going to the Cardinal Hall of Fame Cafe with Ryan's work. They are taking us there for a going away dinner. The boys love that place, although I think they're favorite part is being able to watch TV in the booth! But it'll still be fun.

Mich