Update | Hey Georgia, it’s been over a month!

Can you believe just a little over 45 days ago we were still in Virginia thinking about our big move to Georgia? It’s crazy to process that in a few months we sold our home, built a new one, and relocated miles away from what we knew.

I’m proud of us, this is an understatement. Taking major leaps are down right terrifying, but you can still be brave even when you’re scared. At least that’s what I tell my kids haha…

So how has life been since venturing on our new journey? Well I’m glad you asked! I’ll have to break it into three parts (though it’s so much more).

New Home & Family Routine

In this new season I’m home – I know. One of our biggest prayers was to allow me the opportunity to focus on our kids more, develop myself in other areas I’m passionate about, and still be able to be a support to Mike. Staying home was the best fit for that.

I miss teaching and all of my other roles dearly. It’s been a major mental shift/ moments of mourning as I know those doors have closed for now. However, our pace has changed in a good way. Being home has allowed me to be a solid constant for everyone. As much as my kids need routine, I realize I thrive on knowing what’s coming most days.

We’re able to look into some new after school extracurriculars as a result, which is exciting for all of us! Right now we’re checking out dance, soccer, and swimming. We’ve set a goal, almost a mantra that we will “try new things” in this season.

Oh, The Boys!

Oh our three musketeers have been troopers through all of the changes! They’ve show us lots of grace, grown closer, and found hidden treasures within themselves.

During our transition, I spent time intentionally homeschooling Kai. This was twofold: 1. We couldn’t look at school enrollment options, because our temporary housing was out of district and 2. I promised him that I would homeschool.

Homeschooling brought out a lot in both of us, and it didn’t always feel good – but it was good. I realized how much Kai needed to feel safe in taking academic risks, explore different learning techniques, and also rest. I’m so grateful I took the time, because he didn’t fall behind and we also gained some ground together. It’s not off the table for us to continue in the future…

After lots of discussion, we opted to let Kai enroll in the local public school. We did our homework, and felt like he needed a chance to experience another school setting. And I will tell you he is thriving. He loves his new school and we’re so thankful how much he shines right now. His teacher and peers speak highly of him and are learning his true capabilities. More than anything his self-confidence has taken a serious upswing! He’s on track and has even set personal goals in class!?!

During the time Kai is in school I’m home easing Titus into potential kindergarten, wrangling our monkey Izaiah, and still staring at the crib that will have our baby girl soon. The boys are finding their pace each day and it feels good not to rush them right now.

New Church Home & Finding Community

I didn’t realize how much I loved our community and friends that are family back home. In the everyday it was a privilege of being connected and how accessible my tribe was. I’m thankful that many of those relationships are true and our distance doesn’t affect that. But, it is difficult as I’m figuring out this new season and giving myself time to plant new roots.

However, in the midst of adjusting and finding our place, I’ve found great comfort in the faith community that exists in our new church home! It’s been refreshing to push more into God’s word and step into another level of my own personal time with God.

Also I’ve had so many incredible God moments meeting strangers at grocery stores, when we sell furniture, and just exploring our area. It’s been fun to meet new people and have folks smile back or wave to the kids. I’m loving the southern charm…and food!

There’s so many fun and new things brewing that I can’t wait to share with you! But know that we are doing well. I’m super proud of Mike and my babies as we settle into life in Georgia.

Check back here soon friends!!

♡Carmen