Home is Where the Heart is...

that's what I need to keep reminding myself of. Due to the nature of our rather quick move out here, things aren't as situated as I would like. Although, I also need to remind myself that the Lord has provided for us in incredible ways. We are blessed enough to have a place to live for only the cost of utilities until the end of June. But, my human nature is to focus on the difficult part of the situation; which is that this is not our house and so we can't fully unpack and get settled. We have to unpack as little as possible but still try to be functional. Also, if our place in California doesn't sell before the end of June then we'll have to move into a rental, which would lead us to moving for a third time when we are able to purchase a home of our own. It's stressful and daunting to think about the things to come. Please be praying for this situation.

Aside from the stresses of moving after being here in Fort Collins for a week...I have realized that it takes a lot longer to get to around b/c the speed limits are lower and things are spaced out more. I have also concluded that they have the most inconsistent weather. We've had a couple really beautiful days, but mostly we've had stormy weather, take for example the tornado that touched down in the next city over. Keep in mind that cities don't run together here like they do in LA, there is actually open space between cities. But, it was only 15 miles away. Let's also not forget to mention that a tornado hasn't hit this area in like 20 years!


Besides the speed limits and weather, I really like the city! It's just the right amount of city and small town. I get the conveniences of Target, BBB and Walgreens with the quaintness of locally owned businesses. I like that b/c then the city isn't taken over with franchises and big chain stores; the city actually prides themselves on their locally owned businesses and are very selective about which chains they will allow to build. There are so many parks and bike trails; a lot of time will be spend outdoors with fresh air. It's just so pretty here. There are trees and wild life everywhere and we are right at the foothills of the Rockies. The picture below was taken in our current backyard.

Colorado or Bust

Well, moving weekend has come and gone. It's taken us a little while to get things set up and to get Internet and all the things that would allow me to keep you all updated. So, let me fill you in on how things went. The week before we were to move we were actually on vacation so we weren't able to get anything done then. When we returned we were frantic to get all of our belongings packed up in 4 days. Which proved to be a little difficult since every single night we were hanging out with friends to say good-bye. Well, Thursday came and the house was in disarray, but we were blessed to have many of our friends and family show up to help with the process. It was a long, long day but we made it. Friday we officially moved out of our home in La Verne and made the hour trek to my parents house in Apple Valley.

There, my family gathered and we said our good-byes. On Saturday morning my parents and everything I own headed out to Colorado. Matt drove the giant yellow Penske truck and my dad drove my car and they left at 5 AM. I woke up sick in the middle of the night and after tossing and turning Mason, my mother and I left at 9 AM. It took us quite a while to get through Vegas because we continually had to stop because I felt sick. But after I got some food and energy it was a much more enjoyable drive. My car made it to Colorado Springs at about 11:30 PM, where we met up with the boys and spent the night. The next morning we were up to finish the last leg of our trip. We made it into Fort Collins about 5 PM. I saw some of God's amazing creation on our drive and was able to capture it for you to enjoy...see below

Estes Park

So, Matt's first day was yesterday (Monday). And he has such a slave driver for a boss that he gave him today off! So, since my parents were still staying with us, and technically they were on vacation, we went to a local hot spot and tourist attraction called Estes Park. It's an incredibly beautiful valley amongst the Rocky Mountains. There's a lot to do, but we spent our time in the shopping area. Going through all the very unique stores. Since Mason was getting restless in his stroller we stopped to let him play in the water some. I'm pretty sure that there is alot more to do, but seeing how we couldn't spend ALL day to find out, it'll have to wait til another day. Enjoy these pictures of our little trip...

or you can view them here

To Our Wonderful Small Group...

We had such a wonderful time getting to know you better and developing those friendships. Our small groups played a very important part in our lives especially during that stressful and faithful time of change for our family. We hope that we have created life-long frienships with you all and look forward to staying updated with you as your families grow (hint, hint :) ). We love you and will miss you very much!

Vegas...

as every year before, since we've been engaged, we went to Vegas to visit with Matt's extended family. This year, was a little different though. For one, it was going to be our last chance to hang out with his family and two, we stayed for a whole week due to our time share. We were able to get a suite with a kitchen and seperate living room; Mason slept in the walk-in closet...he he :) We actually kept pretty busy and luckily were indoors during the hottest part of the day due to Mason's nap. So, you may be wondering what we did with a 19 month old in Vegas.

Well, we went swimming...

we took him to the arcades and won some things...

we went the Shark Reef and aquarium...

took him to his first baseball game (Dodgers minor league)...

And we of course went to the family reunion and spent some time with his Uncle Randy, Aunt Asma and cousin Kushmala (I'm sorry if I spelled that wrong).

Before we knew it we had spend too much on valet, stayed up way too late, had lost our gambling money, and it was time to head home. So, there is plenty to do in Vegas with a toddler without getting into trouble.

Or you can view them here