I can drive!

My most recent step toward 100% preparedness for moving was getting an International Driving Permit.  For those of you wanting to know how to get an IDP, you can get them through AAA. All you need is a current drivers license, a 15 dollar check, two passport sized photos (2" by 2") that are super cheap at Costco, and an application form that you can print right off their website. Lucky for me, I was the only one in line for that station so I was helped almost immediately and took about 5 minutes for completion. And viola! I am now able to drive in a ton of different countries!

When I met with my dad just after this errand, he asked me if I had gotten car insurance yet. My first thought..."Craaaaaap." I hadn't even thought about that! Later I asked Jamie about their car insurance policies and fortunately they insure by the vehicle not the driver, so I will be added onto his (if I understood correctly of course). And never mind the fact that his car is manual and I've only ever driven automatic! That too shall come in time! Next on the "to-do" list is finding out how to transfer my savings and checking accounts; all things having to do with money, including credit cards. In addition to that I've been meaning to stop by UPS and FedEx to compare their international shipping rates so that I can send any belongings that don't quite fit into the luggage that Jamie and I are hauling to Perth. Fingers crossed that I find a good deal (or that I put enough clothes in the give-away pile before August that I won't need extra shipping)!