Sorry for the delay in getting an update posted - you know I have had nothing but free time lately ;). Plus, we and AT&T seem to be having a communication problem regarding our internet and the necessary equipment needed (ironic, isn't it).

Well, I can officially say that we are now Meridianites - we are here, but not quite settled. It doesn't feel like I will be able to say we are settled anytime in the near future but I know that it will eventually come together. Anyone who knows me very well knows that I tend to ramble on at times but if you have a few minutes for some rambling, hang with me I will try to briefly ;) recap our last week or so.

Last Monday (July 28th) began our adventure as we closed on our new house and began the moving process. Frankie and I, with the assistance of his dad brought 3 trucks, each pulling a trailer, to unload after the closing. I think that had to be the toughest day of all. I am convinced that we picked the hottest week of the year to move - temps were hovering just under 100 degrees that day with matching humidity. The day was long and tough but we felt like we made some headway. Thanks to Tom for his help with the the furniture! We could never have done that on our own. We were very fortunate that day to meet many of our new neighbors, many of which were very helpful to us that day. The first of many blessings.

Tuesday was spent in Columbus, Kristi workng at the clinic and Frankie working at the house getting the remainder of our belongings together for the second half of the move on Wednesday. We were off again early Wednesday morning to take the rest of our belongings. This portion of the move was actually easier, despite have more to unload, thanks to all the great help we had. Thank you bunches to Dad, Debbie, Judy Lynn, Jay, David and Mitchell for all your invaluable help. We owe you a big one! We at least managed to get some beds put up and a path cleared to each room so we could sleep that night. While we were working in the house that afternoon, the girls were out riding their bikes ( a new freedom for them since they have only been able to do that without supervision in our driveway in Columbus due to the busy street we lived on). Natalie returned to the house absolutely out of breath with excitement. She had meet a little girl down the street, Rosalie, who was her age and going in to the 3rd grade as well. Not far behind her was her little sister, Annabel, who is the same age as Alyson. You cannot possible imagine what that did for this mama! I was so concerned about Natalie starting school and not knowing anyone in her class. We have also met several other very nice girls in the neighborhood since then who are close to Natalie's age. Kerri took the girls to Tupelo for the weekend so we could get some uninterrupted work done - what a break! Thanks Kerri, Travis, Hailey and Harrison. The girls had a great time. We enjoyed a couple of days earlier this week with Kerri and H2W here in Meridian with us. We actually ventured out to the mall and to eat Wednesday - that was an adventure for all of us as I know next to nothing about the layout of this town right now. Somehow, we found our way back to Hwy 45 and to our house - all in one piece. However, while we were at the mall, we accomplished one major feat. We actually got Natalie to go ahead and get her ears pierced. It took MUCH coaxing and patience, but she finally went through with it. Not before trying to jump out of the chair as they actually did the piercings though. A little traumatic at the time, but she was very proud of herself when it was all said and done. I have posted some pictures but it is hard to tell much in them.

Thursday brought Natalie's first day of school. All went well and she had a very good day.
Rosalie was in her class and Natalie was just a little bit excited about it. Her class rotates this year. Her homeroom teacher, Mrs. Breazeale, teaches the first 5 subjects, then the entire class switches over to Mrs. Carmichaels class for the last 2 subjects. They call this team teaching and it prepares them for switching classes next year in 4th grade. Natalie has felt very comfortable with her teachers so far.

I must add one other thank you to all the local ladies who have brought us the wonderful meals over the last week - Ms. Dianne, Chris, Susan, Laura, Barbie, and Theresa. We have found a truly welcoming community.

I have rambled enough. I will post again soon and hopefully it won't be so lengthy.