Lately, I've been operating on overload. So much is going on in our family right now. We move in one week, we close on our home in two weeks, Gracie broke her wrist on the trampoline, we are registering our children at a new school, our oldest is skipping a grade, we are putting the majority of our belongings in storage, we are starting the building process on a new home and we will be attending a new congregation (called "ward" in our faith). Crazy, crazy, crazy. But so many good things as well. A few I will mention: - I have two dear friends that are making "Bennett Blankies" for our family. I took over a bag of his favorite clothes to each of them and they are crafting works of art that will be Gifts of Healing for our family. I can't even begin to tell you how much this means to me. We will treasure these quilts always.
- After fighting for our oldest to skip a grade for three years, we finally got the "go ahead" from the school district and she will be put into the appropriate grade for her development next year (we had opted to send her later as a kindergartner . . . she actually fits in the age group of her new grade). I can't even tell you how relieved I am and what a gift this is. Finally, she will be with kids that match her physical, emotion and social maturity. Hallelujah!
- We have had so many volunteer to help us with the mammoth task of moving. And - for that - we are SO GRATEFUL! With every box I pack and every load I transport, I remind myself that this is the LAST TIME we are moving! NO MORE! I am DONE! Yet it is comforting to see how things have all worked together for our good and how the Lord is oh-so aware of our family.
- We have made all the selections for our home in a charming new neighborhood (think Modern Farmhouse). Lots of sleek, clean finishes with a very modern twist. Very different from our previous European-feel designs. It will be a fresh new chapter for our little family. What a blessing. It. Will. Be. Fabulous. Slated date for move in: January 2012.
- We received a surprise package in the mail last week. Upon opening it, we were surprised to find a Sunshine Themed package packed beautifully and lovingly for our little family. I didn't recognise the California return address and the kind note was left unsigned. And so, I send a BIG Thank You from our family to yours, whoever you are. I assume that this amazing individual heard our story through this blog and so to you, kind friend, we say Thank You. Thank You. Thank You. May the Lord bless you with the same Light and Joy you so generously showered upon our family. We love you dearly.
So there's the down low on the happenings 'round these parts. I ask for your patience as we wrap up matters at our home and prepare for this new chapter. I will post a few times this week but know that - when I am not online - I am doing all in my power to make this a smooth transition for our tender little bunch. They are so, so precious to me.
Hold your children close, soak in the sunshine and have an extra slice of watermelon "just because."
Happy Summer, friends!
It is interesting to me how the Lord often gives us a few things at once, as if one challenge or trial is not enough to deal with :)
ReplyDeleteWe went through about 4 different life changes over the course of nine months, and I am not sure why it must be like this. But for some reason I find comfort in knowing that I am not the only one who is in this position.
I wish I knew all of the answers, but I do know the Lord has his reasons for doing it this way. Thanks for the reminder!
Wow--exciting but stressful changes! I would love to help any way I can (dinner, watching kids, or whatever!). Email or call anytime! Good luck!! We are praying things go smoothly!
ReplyDeleteLove Jenny B.
Where will your new home be? Where will you live in the interim? What can I do to help?
ReplyDeleteGood luck!! I can bring you dinner sometime if you need it!! Or you could come up here and chilax!!
ReplyDeleteOhh Man!!! I hat moving too! But your situation seems completely different then anything I have gone though... so I will keep you guys in my prayers. I loved that you shared the goods and the bads!! I am glad your oldest will skip a grade, that sounds like it was much needed! I am soooooooooo happy you have help... and I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooo happy you felt loved and heard by the anonymous gift!!! Seriously, what a God sent blessing. That person must be spiritually in-tuned! You are doing great. I too live in Utah Valley, so if you ever need help feel free to email me at haolepinos{@}gmail{.}com if you need anything. I can watch your kids, help pack, bring meals... just let me know!!!
ReplyDeleteOh Mandy, wish I was there to help with all your business. It makes my heart happy to hear the Lord is blessing you guys through others. It inspires me to hear about the goodness of others and their willingness to serve - I must be better! Can't wait to see pics of your new house. So much fun that you can start from scratch and make it yours. I love you. Your kids are adorable. I loved talking with you at Tanner's wedding. You are one incredible woman. We'll be praying that your transition to a new home, ward, school will be a smooth one. Loves and hugs.
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