Since we got married in 2009, we have experienced a lot of life changes. We welcomed Caleb and Ben into the world, Nathan went back for his Masters degree, we moved 4 times, and this big move that is brining our family overseas makes #5.
Nathan's parents were a huge help while we got packed up, and Nathan's dad stayed a few extra days to watch Caleb while we were at home with the movers. This was also the longest amount of one-on-one time we had with Ben since he was born, and we loved it. He was such a good boy during the entire move, and we think he enjoyed the time alone with us too. We did miss having Caleb's excitement, but he was busy having a fun time with Grandpa!
On moving day, Grandpa took Caleb to Tom and Erin's house to drop off our double stroller. Elizabeth gave it to us before they moved overseas, and we used it all the time. We know it will go to good use at Tom and Erin's. They also explored a new park, went to a neighborhood park, and went swimming at the hotel.
This picture is from Gettysburg, but it was one of my favorites of Caleb and Grandpa.
This past week we said goodbye to Nathan's mom and some good friends, moved out of our temporary home, sold both of our vehicles, and moved to a hotel. The boys adjusted great to their new surroundings. I am confident that Ben has no idea what is going on, and to be honest, I am not sure Caleb is aware of the upcoming change. That is one thing I love about children. They take everything in stride, and adapt to wherever they are. I know our kids will adapt great, and probably faster than Nathan and I!
Caleb went swimming a couple of times this week. He likes sporting his new shades and swim shirt:).
Two cool dudes!
Post-swimming mac-n-cheese
On Saturday we met up with Tom and Erin in the morning at Clemyjontri Park, the coolest kids park we have ever visited.
The park is great for kids of all ages, we wish we lived closer and are glad for the few times we got to visit.
Nathan and Tom rode with the big kids, while Erin and I hung out with the little guys.
Water and rest break
Back to play!
Then we had to say our goodbyes. We loved living close to Tom and Erin's family this past year and a half, and it was great for Nathan to re-connect and for me to get to know them. They are great friends, and we enjoyed the times we spent together. The first time we saw them when they moved to the area, Jenna was on the verge of walking, and Caleb was crawling. Look at them now!
And since then Ben and Rex were brought into the world, and we have had fun times together. We will miss them, but will look forward to seeing them again in the coming years!
Afterwards, we met Heidi for lunch, and then picked up Twix. Heidi watched Twix for us this past week, which was a huge help. She and Twix have a special bond, and we appreciate her cat-sitting for us over the years.
Heidi is a dear friend, and she loves seeing the boys. They will be much bigger next time she sees them! It was sad to say bye to Heidi again (a few years ago, she took a work assignment in Florida), but I know we will keep in touch and will see here again soon.
Yesterday, we went to the Patuxent Research Nature Preserve. We had a great time walking the trails with the boys and being outdoors. Here are some pictures from our day.
Today is the day we have been anticipating for almost one year, and we are very excited about the journey we are about to embark. Nathan's dad will be traveling and spending the next two weeks with us, and we are so thankful to have him with us to watch the boys and help us through the transition. This evening at the airport will be a circus act: 3 adults, 2 kids, a cat, 9 checked bags, 4 carry-on, 2 strollers, and 2 car seats!
We know that God's hand has been in everything we do, and we are excited to see what He has in store for our family. Please pray for safe travels for Mark and our family, and for a smooth adjustment period. Next time you hear from us, we will be in the Middle East!
