So, we now have all of our documents notarized. Tomorrow we are taking them to be apostilled. Then - all paperwork will be completely done for trip #1! Hooray! What a blessing! Our visas are arriving soon, too!
I've been trying to get the word out for donations to take with us on the trip, but have been surprised at how few we've received. I guess the economy was better when we went to Ukraine, because we had the donations coming out of our EARS and struggled finding room in our luggage for them all. This time, we are checking bags just full of donations. Having said that, I've had 2 people donate 57 beanie babies + infant/toddler clothes (Thanks Hang & Jenny) and think that every little bit will make a difference in an orphan's life. I plan to take more donations the second trip, so if anyone has items to donate they can donate them then.
I'm compiling a list of items to take. I've also thought about the idea of cooking for 6 people in a kitchen in a foreign country. I've thought to bring some items with me, especially items that may not be found in Russia, or are pretty expensive there. Perhaps some of the following:
Peanut Butter
Instant Oatmeal Packets
Protein Bars
Tortillas
Colby Jack string cheese
Crackers
Any other suggestions? Or warnings? Or happy thoughts?
Pierce Family Adoption Registry
6 comments:
That's awesome that you were able to get some donations. I would love to donate but right now we can't make our bills with Josh jobless atm. If he get's this job on monday we plan to mail you a box! When we were I don't know about Russia but in Haiti microwavable easy macs saved our lives I think! Light easy to pack and perfect for road trips. Plus i find them for free most weeks between sales and coupons.
I wouldn't take anything perishable. The chances of it making it there in tact are slim to none. Most likely the perishables will be seized at customs. Besides, the cheese in that part of the world is fabuloso! Stretch Island Fruit bars are fabulous. They're light weight and thin and easy to pack with you everywhere and have no added sugar. Yeah! As I mentioned before, spread all your food items around and divvy them between suitcases. Hot chocolate packets and easy mac are great ideas, too. I've heard several people suggest the crunchy Nature Valley granola bars, too. They'd crumblem them up in yogurt for breakfast.
And don't forget the baby wipes, baby wipes, baby wipes, and BABY WIPES! You'll easily go through a big bulk refil pack and then still buy more over there.
I take three basic spices: garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Plus a shaker can of Parmesan cheese. Add noodles and tomatoes (fresh or canned/jarred) and you've got a cheap and easy stovetop meal. Plus peanut butter, granola bars and Twizzlers... they just taste like America!
I took Ritz crackers and tuna in a bag to Ukraine - they had good Mayo to put with it :) That, honey roasted peanuts and peanut butter is what I lived on for a month!
I thought this was a little interesting:
http://russia.visahq.com/customs/
Read under "Other Russia customs information"
I am happy all the paper work is done. I am excited for your trip. It will be a wonderful experience for your family.
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