Where to start?

Oh dear. It's been forever and SO much has happened. The sale of our house fell through, I've packed everything we own, we've moved to Virginia and now I've almost UNpacked everything we own in a new (much smaller) space.

I must admit, I was totally spoiled in our home in Texas. My kitchen and laundry room were fantastic. The storage space was NEVER even half full, and the bathrooms, while a little dated with green tile or smaller than we'd like...well, they were not THAT dated, they were clean, and there were 2 full bathrooms...

Needless to say, my kitchen here is the size of a small closet. Everything is avocado green and the fridge is so old that there is literally rust on the front panel. The 12" of countertop space is that cream colored laminate with brown swirlies in it. There is no room for a microwave, no dishwasher and no disposal. The laundry room was an afterthought and feels older than dirt. And feels kind of like a dirt cave, actually. The guest bathroom has a yellow-gold countertop and sink with brown cabinetry...with blue wallpaper on one wall...and there is only one shower.

BUT...BUT...BUT...the surrounding area is gorgeous. There is a park about 20 steps from our back door, and a little river with minnows in it right round the corner. It's gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! We have 2 cherry trees out front under which grow and abundance of purple hostas, and there is a mimosa tree in the back yard. The basement is a great play room and we have two fireplaces. It's a great place and the views out of each window are to die for. I can put up with a teensy, ugly kitchen for that. :)

I'm excited to be here, but I do miss Texas. I miss knowing that I was a 2 hour drive from family (north or south along 35) and 30 minutes from one of my dearest friends, Laura. And a short drive from any number of friends. I'm excited to make new friends here, but it's a little strange knowing that we may leave them in a year...Tons of mixed emotions for sure.

We're all a little stressed, but are looking forward to days ahead when the house is in order and there is time for exploring around town. We are really looking forward to visits from friends and family! David and Sarah helped us move here, and that's been awesome. They're in D.C. now and come back tomorrow for another 2 days with us. It's been nice to have familiar and loving faces here. Megan and Tim come in August, my folks come for Thanksgiving. We miss them so much but anticipate their coming!!

When I get a moment, I'll take some pictures and post them.

Meanwhile, I'm going to embrace my inner green and enjoy my tiny, ugly kitchen for the beautiful view it gives. :)