We moved on Memorial Weekend:
While waiting for a bigger truck, Greg, David and Clayton entertained us. I didn't know Greg was so good (on guitar). David is a composer - and incredible musician - we will all see his name in lights someday (on ukelele) and Clayton - of course is amazing! This was the moment when it all came crashing in on me. I finally realized we were leaving and I became very sad. I don't know what it is about music that gets me all sentimental. I had to keep working though - even during the breaks. The Bunnell in me couldn't stop to enjoy it for long.
We had the best helpers
Thanks again to everyone who helped: Cheree and Hailey for taking the kids. David and Greg for giving their day helping pack the truck. The Lantzes, the Cavins - all of you were SO patient and hard-working.
Spent a day in the new van! (thanks Mom for entertaining the kids)
A few movies helped too (thanks to the Cavins!)
Enjoyed our rest stops.
Although it wasn't very far into the trip, we had to stop in Fillmore - our favorite!
Arrived to a house full of boxes. (thanks Clay for emptying the entire ginormous U-haul ALONE!)
Did I mention he drove the huge U-haul alone?
Met the roommates:
cockroach on the patio
tiny ants in the cupboard
hissing beetle in my shirt
dead rat on the lawn
Set up home (thanks Mom for your decorating and organizing skills!)
Enjoyed the playground (thanks Mom!)
Also enjoyed the box the playground came in
Had a nice time in our new ward:
First Sunday at church we sang, "Hope of Israel" accompanied by the organ AND piano. I knew we would be o.k. when I started singing. It was SO loud and and joyful. The pianist doesn't even use a hymnal. She is a professional jazz pianist - famous in these parts. She plays in a "bar" on Sunday evenings too. Anyone's invited to go!
Made the mistake of driving into L.A.
Twice - Once to check out the temple and Santa Monica beach. And once to drop my Mom off at the airport. Both events took literally 3 hours longer than intended. *note to all travelers* Please use the Burbank airport if you are coming. Or, we'll call a taxi to get you to LAX.
Went to Zuma Beach:
The beach made up for missing the annual Snake River trip with my family. They had rain and a little snow and only one frigid run down the river. I love California!
They were so excited, yet so afraid!
Sarah spent her first beach experience with me. She had had a fever for a few days.
His favorite place. And all the parks in Burbank have sand. So he spends his time lying around at the parks too. Just washed more sand out of his hair tonight.
All transitions take time, so I am giving myself a little here and there. The kids are adjusting. Eliza seems to like it. William is taking longer, but a schedule is really helping. Now that Sarah isn't sick, she seems to be happy.
Clayton and Nickelodeon are getting along well. New jobs are tough, but he is trying to keep his head above water for now.
We've met some very kind friends and very interesting neighbors.
We're still experiencing sticker shock.
But yesterday I had another confirmation that we would be alright. I feel blessed and happy and I miss EVERYTHING that is familiar.
I'm in love with the view from the window.
In the kitchen.
Above the sink!
(Sometimes even non-essential desires in prayers are answered)
