Boxes, boxes, boxes

Boxes...that has been the story for us the past several weeks. First we were packing things into them; now, we unpacking those things into our new home! We are ever so grateful, and having such a great time getting everything in place. The best part is that we now have places to put all our stuff! Jason has an entire garage space to house all his brewing equipment - and the best part is that it's separated by a wall and door from my two-car garage side. I'm thrilled to have my very own designated "tutoring room" and craft room. The kids have a separate bedroom for their playroom, and Jason has had a great time buying a new tv for the media room. It's huge, and while I'm not a huge fan of larger than life televisions, I do have to say it's pretty great.

And like I was saying, we're finally here, but it would not have been nearly as smooth a process as it was without the help of so many of our friends and family. And for that, here's a "message on a box" just for you!


Thank you to:

*Julie and Jed for housing many of our household things that we stored in their detached garage while we had our house on the market. To achieve the "uncluttered" look that is desirable when trying to sell one's home, we shuttled about 25% of our house into their garage. Sweet friends that they are, they kindly put up with all our junk for about four months. (Your yard looks great; hope you enjoyed the break from "lawn duty" :)

*Friends that came over to help me pack: Susie, Jodi, Michelle, and Molly. Everything made it in one piece. Y'all are FANTASTIC friends! I know packing is no fun, but it was a huge help! And your company is priceless!

*Friends who watched my kids so I could pack: Elaine, Lisa, Corley, and Donna. Oh, how beautiful was the peace and quiet, and because I could focus, I was able to get so much done!

*Tiffany and Matt: Toby loved playing in your backyard during showings of our house. And we'll never forget the "rodent dugout" near the fence. Jack still announces from time to time that "Dogs eat mice." :)

*My mom: Moving day would have been absolutely miserable if we hadn't had you here to watch the kids. I surely would have lost at least one child. Thanks for keeping their routine in place. And for all that you did to help us get unpacked. The kitchen is a dream, and you did an amazing job getting it ready to use in record time! You eye for design is great to have too! When your house sells, we're there to help you pack (and take whatever furniture you don't want off your hands :)

*Jason's parents, Barb and Jim: you win best in-laws ever award. Thank you for giving your time over the weekend to come and take care of the kids and do some grunt work in the garage! Count us in when it's time to pack up your house for the big St. Louis move! We'll be there!

*Amy and Julian: thanks for the boxes! You saved us a ton of money since we didn't have to buy any! They're going on to another good home, the Carney's!

*Josh, John, Eric, and Tony: Lucy and Jack are so glad to have a new swingset to play on. And retrieving it from way out in Monrovia is way above and beyond being a good friend!

*Moving Day help, Brad: It took the movers nearly thirteen hours to move us one street away; however, it would have taken even longer had you not given up about four hours of his afternoon to help as well!

*The wives of all the guys that helped: I know that when the husbands are away, it's a longer day for you. Thanks for sharing your strapping, strong men! :)

*Elaine: thanks for loaning us your new house for nap time; how conveniently did that work out?!? Can not wait until you live across the street! Can you say CARPOOL!?!

*Allison: for steering us in the right direction, leading us to this house. Here's to another "closing celebration!"


As you can see, we're ever so fortunate to have such amazing friends and family who gave generously with their time and energy to help us. Put us at the top of your list to call whenever you need a favor. We'd love to help!

I'll post pics of the house soon!