It's starting to feel real...

Today, we received two packets from the adoption agency that basically say "We can't guarantee you're in the next batch, but since you're this close, here's some stuff to read to get ready!"

There is a thick travel packet (60 pages) that's an overview of the trip, the packing list (worth an entire post of its own...), the tipping policy, document checklist, travel arrangements policy, visa applications, travel profiles, etc. LOTS to do. I'm assigning all of the documents work to K, as he is the guy who kept everything straight while we were going through the "paperchase" phase of the home study. Tax returns, marriage certificates, immigration documents, visas, passports, UGH! This document also contained a very detailed travel itinerary (not specific to our dates, but a good general idea of what to expect) and general travel tips ( like Don't drink the water! In fact, don't even brush your teeth with it!)

The second document was also an assignment of sorts. It is a copy of a letter and questionnaire to send to the SWI (orphanage) director after we are matched with our baby. Once we receive the referral, we will mail a package to the director with items for the baby - a blanket that we've slept with (so the baby gets familiar with our scent), a toy or two, perhaps a token gift for the SWI workers (candy), and a small flip-style photo album with pictures of us and the house in it. The nanny or foster parent will show the pictures to the baby so we don't look like complete aliens when the big day arrives! We're also to include a disposable camera for the workers or foster parents to take pictures of the baby, his/her surroundings and friends, caregivers, etc., so that we have that as part of the baby's history. There is a set of instructions (written in Chinese) so that they will know how to use the camera.

Anyway, the questionnaire is also sent to the SWI for the caretaker to complete. It asks questions about the baby's schedule, eating habits, sleeping habits, personality, etc. And yes, it asks if the child is potty-trained! Did you know that they potty train babies from birth in the SWIs? From what I've heard, they sit the babies on little pots every hour or two and blow a whistle when the baby is successful, so that the baby associates the whistle with going to the bathroom. Apparently, they can then "go on command" when they hear the whistle! Isn't that amazing? I know that Dad-in-law (the family's resident behavioral psychologist) will appreciate this.