We had a wonderful time on Sunday with some dear friends old and new - you just can't beat a day on the lake in Maine! Today -more wood stacking, painting one last window (I will be painting in this house for years!), phone calls to the social worker, and researching airline baggage requirements. Also, I spoke on the phone with a friend of a friend from India who had some great suggestions for the trip and even has a lead on someone who speaks Marathi! We're looking for someone who speaks the boys native language to help us translate during the first few weeks we are home, just a couple visits, even an hour or so, to clarify any confusions and give the boys (especially the older guys) a chance to communicate more clearly. We do have picture cards that we'll use, in conjunction with a daily schedule that should help somewhat, but the communication issue will most likely be frustrating for all parties involved at times.
Some folks have been asking about the trip details, and today I did get an updated itinerary, so here it is:
Tuesday, Aug. 19th - fly away from Portland, Maine
-transfer planes in Newark, NJ
-fly directly to Mumbai, India
-arrive Wed. Aug. 20th
-flying time: 17 hours
-time spent traveling: 22 hours
Thursday, Aug. 21st
-travel in a hired car from Mumbai to Pune (approximately 3-4 hours)
-pick up boys from orphanage!!!
Friday, Aug. 22
-go to the Family Court in Pune for brief appointment - with the boys
-hang out/bond in Pune through Saturday
Sunday, Aug. 24
-fly to New Delhi
Mon.-Wed.
-various appointments at U.S. Embassy, doctors (for boys travel clearance), etc.
-if we can finish all official business by Tuesday we may have some time for sightseeing
Wed., Aug. 27-
-depart New Delhi
-fly through Newark again, this time all the way to Bangor
-arrive "home" Thursday, Aug. 28!
Whew!
2 comments:
Missy and Eric~
I can't tell you how excited I am for you both! I have so enjoyed reading about your journey so far. I was hoping you would be back in time to join us at the CJ celebration 8/22-24, so we could meet the boys, but I am glad you will be home soon.
Travel safely and happy beginnings!!!!
You are absolutely going to love the scenic drive from Mumbai to Pune! Keep your camera ready for breath-taking views through the Ghats. Sometimes you can catch a brief glimpse of a waterfall or two. Half way through your drive up in the mountains, you'll come to an area where locals sell "chikki's", which are kind of like peanut brittle candy. You can't miss the vendors, as their shouts of, "Chikki...chikki" are unmistakeable. Buy some if you get a chance. It will be a nice regional treat and the boys will love them.
Best wishes on your upcoming travels!
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