We really wanted to move from our apartment into a home, but it just seemed like such a hassle and we weren't sure we could afford it. We kept putting it off and pretty soon it seemed like it was too late and we'd have to renew our lease at the apartment. About that time, our good friends the Carters approached us with a deal that was too good to be true. They wanted to buy a new home and wanted us to rent their current one so they could do some repairs in order to sell it. Heck yes!! It is a super cute house inside and out.
Things happened pretty quickly from there and this past Monday we moved. One advantage of being a Mormon is that members of our church are awesome at helping one another - and that includes moving. Because of the timing of things, we had to move on Monday morning, hardly an ideal time to get help. But surprisingly we had a lot of help, including a moving-sized van from our bishop (our ecclesiastical leader). They had us out of the apartment and into our new home in about 2 1/2 hours! Fantastic. We were unbelievably grateful. Not only was it fast - it was free. Such good people. Our Relief Society (the women's organization in our church) president even brought us dinner on Friday.
Unpacking with kids is challenging, but by Thursday we were done. I can't get used to so much open space, although I'm also shocked at how we've filled the home. How did we ever fit in the apartment? So here's a mini-tour.
Playroom - it's supposed to be a dining room, but it's an awesome playroom. (Side note: Jalen is sporting a bandaid on his chin because he tried to shave with David's razor. Long story.)
Jalen's room - I thought the kids would have a hard time getting used to sleeping without each other. Not at all! They love having their own space.
Baylie's room - She has become a little too fond of the phrase, "Get out of my room!" in regards to her brother's invasions.
David doesn't have to have his keyboard shoved in a dark corner.
Kitchen nook - notice my South Carolina basket and door handle decoration intermingled with my Swedish star from North Carolina. Love it!
The Carters obviously loved this home and there are so many little details that make it special. Having just left the ghetto (okay, not really, but our apartment was built about the time Carter was president), we feel positively luxurious with all these touches.
The windows are amazing. Not only do they open normally, but they slide in so you can clean the outside! I placed a candle in the kitchen window in honor of my parents in Caswell County. Everyone up there does that, but I have no idea why.
Our absolute favorite thing about the home is the back yard. It is huge and awesome and the kids are in heaven there. (Thanks Aunt Tiffy for the swimming pool. I'm not always so grateful when Jalen swims in every single outfit he puts on.)
We know that eventually the Carters will come for their swing set, but we hope it takes them a LONG time.
I'm even okay with the stairs. So is Jalen.
Life is good.
