“A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for.”

Phew! I think I am done with the holiday posts. On to the here and now. Our most exciting news is . . . we are buying a house! Yay. I am so excited! I can't wait to use my own dishes and furniture, and to have a little more space. I feel like we have been in a wierd transition period that has gone on for so long. It will be so nice to be settled in a ward, and a neighborhood with the understanding that we will be there for a while. I feel bad Emma has to change schools - again. Poor kid, but she has adjusted well so far.

It will be an adjustment living on our own again. There are many great things about living here with my parents. We put the kids to bed and have babysitters almost anytime. This has been great for Mark and I. We've been able to play volleyball and go on dates together a lot. It's just easier with 4 adults in the house. We share cooking and cleaning responsibilities, help each other out in a bind, pick stuff up at the store for one another, and there is always someone to talk to. I remember the days when I didn't talk to another adult the whole day. I hope I make friends fast because I'm worried I will be a little lonesome. The kids are going to have a rough transition too. They've had 4 adults to care for them and love them all the time. They've been able to get their needs and wants meet much easier here.

I'm so grateful my parents have opened their home to us. It was so important for us. We have been spoiled because they take any opportunity to help us. I get asked everyday, "What can I do for you today Sara?" My mom cooks dinner for us all the time, and my dad will drop anything to help me fix a flat tire on my bike (just some examples). Hopefully, I have learned from their generosity and service, and I will take it with me.

I am a little scared and excited to move. It will be a new chapter in our lives.