And We're In!!

I've played this day over and over again in my mind, wondering how it was going to all work out.  I originally thought this day would have come a few days ago, like as soon as we drove into Phoenix.  But, instead, it came today, this afternoon really.  

We got the keys to our new house (rental).

In some ways all the things that I feared happened...but the fear was absent.  It was completely peaceful and actually really humorous.

I had pictured us driving up to our new place and saying, "ok kids, stay in your car seats while mom and dad unload the POD (the container with all of our belongings)."  And today, after signing the lease, walking around the house, praying over every room, rejoicing with the kids that God had provided for us the perfect place, letting Ellie give a tour of the backyard and show us where she'd ride her tricycle, where she's put her playhouse, etc., we walked to the front yard and there we were.  Trav, me, Ellie, Gracie, and Emily...and the POD.  That's it...no one else around.

This is the part I'd pictured...so, we thought it'd be too hot for the girls to sit in their car seats (haha) so we decided to just let them help (and corral them as much as possible).

Ok, whoever had the idea (Sandra? Beth??) when we were packing back in Boston to just throw these extra cans of puffs in the back of the trailor was brilliant.  They saved us.

Ellie was a great helper as we started to unpack things.

Then the unexpected happened.  A girl that was in our college ministry in Boston and now is working in Phoenix called and said, "I'll come help and I 'll bring two guys I know."  Yay!  Ellie doesn't have to help Daddy with the china cabinet!

This is Pas.  Thank you to him!

His comment, "Whoever pakcked this thing really knew what they were doing."  Thanks Adam!

So the unpacking began...I had the kids in the back, feeding the baby, taking care of her blow out diaper (she poops about once a week--great timing Em), and letting the girls eat puffs to their hearts content.  (we ended up eating one whole can this afternoon/evening).

Wow.  What a day.  Started out exactly like I expected but ended much differently!  Thanks so mostly to Pas and Jacqueline.  

Headed back to the Stroupes for one more night.

Our Arizona girl

So there's LOTS to do in the days to come but we're in!  And we love our new home!  Thank you, Lord.  He's has come through once again...thank you puffs!  and thank you Pas!