10 things we need to do before we go…

#1. Get visas (the B1 84 VISA specifically - this is basically “permission” to enter the country granted by South Africa – a long 8 step process, including a police report proving our lack of criminal activity - think they'll let Karl in?)

#2. Finish our immunizations (we’ve gotten so many we couldn’t even tell you what’s left)

#3. Obtain an international driver’s license (this in no way helps with the ability to actually drive on the other side of the road)

#4. Finalize health insurance (maternity? no maternity? adopt?)

#5. Pick seats for the 24 hour flight through Amsterdam to Cape Town (attempt to be as kid friendly as possible to avoid handing out our “airplane parent apology cards” - yes – we really do have these).

#6. Put together a pre-school curriculum for Jensen (today she saw the number 3 and said "that's MY number" - she can count to 10 - if you don't take into account the fact that she's anti #8)

#7. Back Surgery (Karl has a herniated disk - good times)

#8. Divide up all possessions (between “store,” “sell,” “give away” and “take to Africa" – holy array of decisions!)

#9. Move in with parents (with Karl’s surgery, he’ll be out of commission for weeks and I’ll need help,...we’ll toggle between both sets of parents – trying to stay long enough to have good quality time but short enough to avoid completely wearing out our welcome and causing them to wish we would leave for Africa MUCH sooner)

#10. Celebrate our 8th year anniversary (best decision I ever made was to marry Karl Ostrand)