Only a week to go!

I'm sitting at the kitchen table surrounded by paperwork, trying to get all the bills paid and the finances sorted out, with far too little time left. We're also tripping over bags, having taken out almost every bag, backpack and suitcase we own to try to sort out the complicated logistics of three separate travelling parties, and multiple different activities in the lead up.

Chris is almost packed for China, leaving the day after tomorrow, so he has only one day of normal school left for the year!!

James is probably the most complicated in terms of logistics, with having to take school clothes and books to his friend, then a separate bag for the Yarra Junction school camp, where he'll require clothes and shoes that can be trashed - or at least cope with mud and water. And then his bag for Europe needs to be deposited at his grandparents, with some instructions as to which items need to be transferred from the school camp bag during the weekend changeover(preferably via some soapy water!) As long as we don't end up with his school uniform in Europe!!

Everyone except me seems to be coping well with the lead up and taking it all in their stride. I on the other hand am probably best kept clear of - the kids can attest to that! A nasty cold over the last 5 days hasn't helped my mood, but I am on the mend now and starting to make some headway with what still needs to be done. The trip itself is the easy part - it's the paperwork back here and sorting out the house that is the hard part!

My brother has been on the ball with car insurance and accommodation, in spite of being excessively busy himself. Am starting to really look forward to getting on that plane, when I can finally relax.