We have landed!

So, we are here and basically moved in. I would take pictures and show everyone the place but our camera is dead and well...you just don't want to know. The freakin' out began when we got here and I finally saw the place - but after I found out that the basement floods when it rains, the back door didn't lock, one of the burners is broken, and there is no dishwasher - that's when the drama really began... Not to mention that the carpet hasn't been replaced since...well, ever and it has a weird moist and sticky feeling. And let me just add that I love the fluorescent lights and the buzzing ambiance it creates. But don't cry for me, I'm a survivor and I am gonna make it!

There are some good things though. Our townhouse backs up onto a beautiful view of the forest with fun trails to walk on (the first morning we saw two deer). There are 3 parks on site and tons and tons of kids for Ella to play with. Also, about 30 Mormon couples live here and just by going to the park I have gotten to know a lot of women already. So, I am happy to be here and we are making it home!

For the brave of heart, pictures will be forthcoming...

Best Friends

And so the time has come for us to move (again). We are happy for a new adventure but can't help but feel sad about all that we are leaving behind. We will of course miss my family more than I can say. After all, a person shouldn't have to leave her home and family twice in their life. But I know that anywhere with Chris will be home.

It has been an awesome year filled with more challenges than we were expecting which have helped us to grow and be ready for the new challenges. But the challenges of the year seem to fade away and all we remember are the wonderful memories we have made. Memories like fun family dinners provided by my parents. And Ella begging to go to Rayna's house every week. Plus, who can forget the awesome family reunion and all the fun that Ella has had with her cousins!!!!

But this year has given our family more than memories. We have gained new best friends in Jared and Cindy. We have had too much fun going on double dates with them and getting to know them better. It is awesome when your family can become your best friends. And so it is with Ella. From the first moment Ella meet "The Boys" (Elliot and Isaac) they have been her best buds. She has gone from calling them her "babies" to calling them both "Isaas" to calling them "Isaac and Ewwiot" - and most of the time getting it right. Their relationship has had its ups and downs (mostly Ella and Elliot) but they have worked through it and grown to depend on each other.

And so here is my tribute to their special friendship that I know will last a lifetime (even through a move to Rochester)-press play for the music:

"Look, I'm Picasso"

It might be that I have been cooped up too long...but I love it when Ella plays with Mr. Potato Head. I find her creations too funny and I love to hear her describe them (I seriously need to get out more).

So here is a sampling of her designs..complete with their names.