Paperwork

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?