We are now down to less than 3 weeks before we leave D.C. And our “to do” list isn’t done. I think until you’ve actually done it, it’s hard to believe just how many things need to be done before you can move overseas. And thankfully State does so many things for us, like pack us (although we have to sort the shipments), ship our stuff (although we have to meet with the shippers and arrange our shipment), and purchase our plane tickets (although we have to pick the flights).

Not that we’re complaining about any of it, but the list can be overwhelming at times. State provides a suggested list of things to do before you leave. Here are a few examples.

-Put together important papers, like power of attorney, and scan other documents, like tax returns
-Arrange for certain banking transactions, like automatic deductions and ATM cards with international PINs
-Meet with all the doctors you need and get duplicate perscriptions
-Set up automobile shipment
-Send letters to the embassy regarding a variety of matters
-Change of address and absentee voter registration
-Passports and visas

Again, that’s just a sample.  The list they provide is 10 pages long.

The packing company is sending a surveyor on Wednesday to decide how many packers and boxes to bring.  We’ve already sorted most of our belongings so we are well on our way.

Moving is a lot harder with a 7-week old, but he also brings huge smiles to our faces as we bring smiles to his.  Kristen and I have been talking with him about our move so he can be prepared.  I think he’s too young understand so he’s just enjoying the ride and looking forward to meeting Sonia.