Arrived and Settled

First of all, we are safe and dry. The flooding is north of where we are, so we have been very lucky. We have had crazy weather (lightening and thunder storms) and a lot of water, but no flooding. Thanks to all those who have called or written to see how we are. But, keep the others in the state in your prayers and thoughts.

So, after eight days in the extended stay, we were so excited to get into the apartment and have a place of our own. The night before felt like Christmas Eve! When we arrived I rushed in to check it out and was shocked. The place was really nice, but as we took a closer look, it was filthy! I will spare you all the details, but it took me three hours to clean the fridge, we had to take the tracks off of the bathroom tub/shower because they were so disgusting (we didn't shower for two days because I refused to get in the shower like that) and the oven took three days to get clean (how do people live like that?!). I was in tears when I saw the mess. But, after three days of hard cleaning and organizing, the apartment looked great. Here are a few pictures of the unloading process --


Cole fell asleep while Russ and my dad were putting the BBQ together -- isn't this picture sweet?!

In the middle of all of the chaos of moving, Garrett rolled for the first time. I think he was just tired of being in his car seat or the swing. I even got it on video. Yay! Good job, Garrett!


My parents came and stayed for five days and helped us get settled. They hung pictures, fixed furniture, organized and did all sorts of projects. But, the best part of having them here was the time they spent with Cole and Garrett. I think Cole said, "Grandpa, what are you doing?" about a million times while they were here. He wrestled with Grandpa, learned a new saying (ring the bell, knock on the door, peek in...) and followed him everywhere. In the morning he would yell down the stairs, "Grandpa, wake up!" With Grandma he read books, played with his Thomas trains (Grandma built an amazing track), and played the marble game. Garrett loved being held by both of them and even spit up on them both!! It was a fun weekend and we are thankful they were able to stay.



Here are pictures of our little home at the extended stay hotel. Now that we are settled and it is a memory it is fun to look at, but at the time it was less than enjoyable. It's all part of the adventure!