A few months ago, when I wrote, “The Quest for a Simple Life” I wasn’t sure if there would be a part two. Both Husby and I felt in our hearts that there was a different path our family was to pursue… a risk to take with greater rewards in the end for our family… but we didn’t have any definitive plans. We knew we just had to trust… and do the “foot work” {as one of my best friends explained}. So, that’s exactly what we did. In the past six months, we’ve taken two long road-trips to Mammoth Lakes and five trips to our local mountains. At last, our path was revealed! I’ve been so eager to share with you our plan… along with the excitement {and uncertainty} that lies ahead for our family of six. We currently live in one of the most beautiful master planned communities in Orange County, California. Most people think we are crazy to give up the great public schools, countless pools, water parks, trails and short drive to the beach…. but we were growing weary of the daily runaround. As mentioned in my “Family Time” post… there just never seems to be enough quality family time. We had to let go of the notion that there would be a perfect time to make a move… and just leap. We trusted that God would open the doors for us if there was a move and lifestyle change in our near future. Through lots of prayer, many late night conversations, and patience… we finally came up with a plan and found a beautiful home in our local mountains {we’re feeling so blessed}! We move this week!
Of course with this change does come sacrifice. Not only are we leaving the only home our children know, but also close family, friends, and acquaintances we’ve met over the years {we will miss you all dearly}. Husby will no longer have a short half hour commute to work… but instead a good two hours each way {luckily he has a firefighter schedule where he works a few days on and then several off in a row}. I also won’t have the common luxury of going to my favorite stores like Target and Trader Joe’s when I need to pick up groceries and household necessities {yikes}! In addition to all of this, we have decided as a family to homeschool! Having been a teacher and school psychologist in the past {combined with Husby’s never-ending patience}, I am confident that we can be our kids’ learning coaches! We have a lot to learn… but we feel complete peace and excitement in regards to our decision. We are hoping that the flexibility of their schooling allows for more family time focused on exploring the outdoors and traveling.
So, now that you know our plans… I will keep you updated with our journey and what we learn along the way! On a side-note, I used to be better at giving you a “Behind the Scenes” look into our family happenings. Here are several photos from the past month to catch you up to speed! It’s been a blissful summer thus far, filled with trips to the mountains, beach days, splashing at the water park, outdoor picnics, ice cream, and lots of park dates with our closest friends! Hope your summer is off to a great start, as well! Wishing you lots of sunshine and simple moments you’ll treasure in the days to come!