It's Spring - And It Is 104 Degrees!

I am really sorry that I have not posted. Call me superstitious, but I have been scared to post because I don't want anything to happen with the house :-) I know, stupid. Okay, let me catch everyone up.

The house is officially sold, but not sold, LOL. We have signed all the paperwork and we are just waiting for the closing now. It is scheduled for June 10th. I am very excited and a little anxious. I know that things will be okay; they have thus far. God, just take us through these last little steps. We have started to contact movers and just need to pin it down to one.

We have started to house hunt officially. We have an agent out here, Dave, and he comes highly recommended by all the guys that I work with. We have been weeding out the houses we like and those that can be put on an alternate list. I am figuring that this process might take a while; there are just so many to pick from...well, maybe it isn't so much that we have a lot to pick from as much as it is that we have a picture of what we want our first house to look like. We have chosen an area. Let me see if I can find a picture:

This is South Mountain. We would like to find a home to the south and maybe a little west in the the Ahwatukee Foothills. Thus far, we have picked out 7 homes that we would like to see. The area is very pretty and the mountains surround you. Matt and I have really fallen in love with hiking and want to be as close as possible (we have barely scratched the surface of the trails). This is a great family area also, which will be great when the kids come out and visit. Of course, if there is a house that we specifically like above the rest, we would like to review it with the kids. Even though they will not be here full-time, we want this to be a family decision - it is their home also. I'll keep everyone up-to-date on the shopping. I believe we will be seeing a few this weekend.

Since the last time I posted, our little girl turned 7. I still can't believe it. When I came into her life she was just three years old - such a little cutie! She had long pigtails and little dimples. Now, she is such a beautiful young lady who wanted to go to Bahama Breeze for her birthday dinner...only she would pick there; she always does! (The last place I took the kids before I left for AZ - they chose) Our Missa - soccer player, singer, artist...we are so proud of her. We love her and miss her (and Tyler) so much.

Mother's Day came and went as well this weekend. I hope that I got a chance to call each of you Mommies, and if I didn't - Happy Mother's Day! I hope your families took good care of you yesterday. My hubby made the whole weekend about me; it was great! Then I got to spend 30 wonderful minutes on the webcams with the kids...you just can't get a better day than that!!!

In the past two weeks, Matt and I have hiked some amazing places. Saturday, May 2nd, took us to Peralta and Cave Trails. It was so beautiful. Here is one of my favorite pictures:

This past weekend we went to Sedona and hiked 15 miles of the Secret Canyon. I would love to share the pictures, but I am still trying to figure out how. We had to buy a new laptop this past week, and it is not compatible with my memory card...still trying to figure it all out. Once I get it working, I will upload, so that you can see.

Many of you have heard about the a/c problems that we have had this past week. Well, they are finally fixed. After a week long of temperatures above 100 and the complex promising to fix the problem, I had had enough. So yesterday, Matt and I went into the Management Office and told them that it was completely unacceptable that nothing had been done. Well, okay, maybe it wasn't as nice as that...but can you blame me? It has been 104 all week long! I love the hot, but you need a break. I gave Baxter two cold baths yesterday just to cool him off...poor baby. But anyway, everything is good and we will be sleeping great tonight!

Well, I think that is enough updates. :-) I will try and stay on top of this better from now on. Love and miss you all.

Offer Signed!

We have officially signed the offer and it is heading back to Michigan. They have the inspector coming on Friday. It is now just a waiting game now.

To top off all of God's graciousness, Matt found out today that Robertson will be picking up the moving expenses prior to the move, instead of reimbursement that they had initially agreed to. That is an AMAZING blessing. I never realized how much a move across country would cost, and I have really been praying that God would provide us an answer on how we would put up that sort of expense up front...well, he answered my prayer. He continues to pour down on us.

The little bit of anxiety that I have I am keeping down by running 2.5 miles a night...can you believe that? Me, running! My sister was my inspiration. Thanks Les!! My body is starting to feel very strong. Matt even commented this evening on how my body is starting to look different; more toned. That made me feel really good.

I spent a little time this evening planning our next hike for this weekend. I think we will either do Camelback or Peralta. I promised Matt, though, that we could go and see a lender on Saturday morning. We may have to put off the hike until Sunday. We are also throwing around the idea of driving down to Tombstone...would LOVE to visit!!

The one thing definitely on our plan is heading over to REI for their annual sale...hiking boots and camelbacks! :-)

Big Update!

Well, I am going to make you wait for the big news until the end...unless you want to scroll. I really want to share with everyone what a great weekend we had!

Friday we flew into Detroit Metro to spend the weekend with the kids. Matt wasn't kidding when he said the first weekend back to Michigan would be a hard weekend sleep wise. I did get the opportunity to take a nap for the four hours we were off the ground, and I am really glad that I did. I don't really know how I would have made it without.

Mom and Dad picked the kids up from school on Friday and had taken them back to the island for a fun Grandma and Grandpa evening. Tyler and Melissa said that they had a lot of fun. Melissa had her first soccer game on Saturday, so after we landed and picked up our rental car, we headed over to the Niles center where we met up with everyone. She played really well!

Running the ball down the field (blue)

She plays goalie quite well

And she is always smiling!!

After the game we headed over to Buddy's Pizza so the twins (Matt and his brother Jeff) could celebrate their birthdays. We never get sick of Buddy's pizza. It was very nice to see everyone and spend a few hours catching up.

Tyler didn't want his picture taken - but I sort of got him

Daddy's two girls!

After Buddy's pizza, we headed home and had a nice evening with part of "the group" :-). It is so nice to see everyone is hanging in during these difficult economic and health issue times. Jen is more than half way through her pregnancy and looks great, Kathy has a great new shorter haircut that I just love and Pam was able to stay for a while and visit with us girls - it was everything I hoped an evening back home with my friends would be. Thanks to all that stopped by and spent some time with us (sorry I kept falling asleep on the couch). I love all of you so much, and any little bit of time that I can spend with you means so much to me.

Sunday we spend most of the day getting the house cleaned up and ready for the next month away from the house...or maybe sooner, not sure. The kids were so helpful and really worked with me to ensure their areas and stuff were picked up. I am so blessed to have two children that listen so well and are so willing to help me. I sure will miss them this next month.

After the house was ready to go, we headed out to Algonac to spend a couple of hours with my dad. We took him to lunch and gave him a few presents that I had bought for him. A t shirt from the HD store in Chandler and a web cam. We got it all set up for him, but now today he says he is having problems. I will have to call him tomorrow and figure out what is wrong. I worked late tonight, so with the time difference I wasn't able to call. I am hoping that whatever the issue, we can get resolved quickly, so we can talk online.

By 4:30, we had dropped the kids off at their mom's and were off to the airport. Just like that our weekend was over. As quick as it started, it had ended. We are sad, but are looking forward to the next visit in May. We will be there for four days...a little more time to spend with the kids.

Work is going good, but really busy. I am putting in a few more hours than I normally do, but I feel that to get ahead there must be sacrafices. As long as I can continue to run my 2.5 miles at night I am happy...and thankfully our apartment community has a fitness center. I don't have to drive.

Okay...so I think that is all the updates! Are you ready for the grand finale? LOL, we have a pending offer on the house!! We have counter-offered and they have accepted. Now, we will just await the official paperwork. Matt and I are trying not to get our expectations high just in case something happens...but feel we are in a much better position than are most. 48 days and we have an offer.

I do apologize if this seems really jumpy. I really wanted to get an update on the computer before i went to bed. However, it is WAY past my bed time. I will keep everyone posted as we hear more news.

New Friends & Another Trail!

We had such a great weekend! It was needed after the week that I had had :-)

Saturday, Baxter had his first groom in Arizona at his new daycare/groomer/puppy resort, Malinda's Pampered Pets. He looks so cute! Here is an updated picture:

I can't believe my baby is 2!

We had the opportunity to meet Malinda, get a tour of the facility, sit with Heidi his new groomer, and get him all set up for next weekend when we will be travelling to Michigan. Everyone in the facility is very professional, very loving to the puppies, and considerate of Baxter's individual needs (Heidi noticed and was very careful of the paw he favors - the one that had gotten hurt last year). His cut is actually better than the one he received back home (not as shaved looking), and price was very comparable to Troy.

While Baxter was getting groomed, Matt and I looked at houses. We found a few more to place on the radar. We also heard from Diane. We are not hearing about all the showings any longer because of the time difference (and we have given her approval to just show without calling), but she said that there is still a lot of activity. The one woman that saw our home a few weeks ago is still interested, but no offer yet. We just continue to pray.


Saturday evening we headed over to Scottsdale to the Culinary Arts Festival. One of Matt's faternity brothers lives in Scottsdale, and he invited us to join him and his friends to the festivities. We had such a great time! We met everyone at his house and then rode our bikes down to Scottsdale proper where the festival was held. We sampled some really good (real) Mexican food, lots of home made beers, and ended the night with a treat from The Melting Pot. Everyone made us feel so welcome and part of the group. We look forward to hanging out with them again soon.

Sunday we took a drive through the Apache Trail. The Apache Trail was originally a stagecoach trail that ran through the Superstition Mountains. It was named the Apache Trail after the Apache Indians who originally used this trail to move through the mountains. Here is a little history (for you, Dad - cause I know you love this stuff like me!):

The State of Arizona, under the leadership of Governor George P. Hunt in 1919, decided to build a transportation link between Phoenix and the cities of Globe and Miami. Governor Hunt wanted to open the Globe and Miami copper industry to the Phoenix market. The only road in 1919 linking these two important economic centers was the Mesa-Roosevelt Road (Apache Trail) or the long rail route through Tucson, Bowie and Safford. The Apache Trail was not an efficient roadway for moving goods from place to place. The roadway originally was built as a haul and service road for the construction and maintenance of Roosevelt Dam.

For the most part the Apache Trail was a single lane road with occasional pull outs; however the roadway fascinated tourists who visited the area.

In 1919, there were several stations along the Apache Trail that serviced the tourist making the long journey by way of motorcar. There was Government Well, Mormon Flat, Tortilla Flat, Fish Creek Lodge and Snell's Station between Mesa and Roosevelt Dam. The completion of the Phoenix-Globe Highway through Superior in May of 1922 completed the famous Circle Route that allowed drivers of automobiles to circumnavigate the entire Superstition Wilderness Area, an almost road-less region.

Our tour ended with a trip up to the indian ruins of the Salado people. With erosion carving out recesses in a layer of siltstone partially exposed on the hillside, the floors of these alcoves were littered with debris from the ceiling. Bonding rocks with mud, the Salado constructed apartment-style dwellings adequate for sleeping, storage, cooking, and protection. The pueblo now called the Lower Cliff Dwelling consisted of 16 ground floor rooms, three of which had a second story.
It was an amazing 5 hour drive! Make sure you check out the photos to the left. The trip took our breath away. With every turn in the road, you saw different colors, different shadows, different rock formations and different bodies of water. It was just so pretty...God's hands at work to remind us how much he eternally loves each and every one of us!

We finished our weekend with a nice chat with the kids and a dip in the hot tub. Another great weekend!! We are really looking forward to heading back to Michigan this week to see the kids, and spend some time with the family.

Today was my first (quite long) day of work without the person I replaced. I have A LOT of work, and a big learning curve, but it was nice to be on my own. I got a phone call today that my car had come in, but it is getting serviced, so I will probably not receive it until next week...which is good because the Murano is quite dusty from our trek off road :-) They installed my tinted windows today (legal in AZ because of the sun), so I am sure it looks really nice.

It is 10:15 p.m. right now and it is still 85 degrees. Tomorrow it is forecasted to be 101!!!! It's starting to get Arizona summer hot :-) I love it!

Miss everyone...can't wait to see most of you this weekend. Only 5 more days!!

Work, Work, and More Work!

I have not written in a while because since starting work on Tuesday I have been absolutely swamped...they say, "Be careful what you wish for!" Well, sort of how I feel.

Monday, which was still holiday for me was really relaxing. It was Baxter's birthday, so he and I just chilled out together. We walked a total of 8 miles throughout the day, and played a lot. We did have a showing back in Michigan, but I have had a difficult time finding enough time to sit down and call Diane right now. If we received an offer, she would leave a message. Thus, I am not too too worried that I haven't heard from her.

Tuesday was my first day of work, and it has been nonstop since I got here! My official title is Business Analyst, Arizona Proving Ground Operations. My main responsibilities are Asset Management and Capital Expenditures, Purchase Procurement through BPOs, Cafeteria Management, and the Fitness Center. I must say that I feel VERY overwhelmed and a little stressed out. I have come in to replace an involuntary separation, and he is a little bitter. However, his feelings are very justified. He has done an awesome job, 6 months ago they promised to make him direct, and now they separate him from the company. That would ruffle anyone's feathers...and to top it off, they bring me in to cross-train with him. Imagine how wonderfully uncomfortable it is, and times it by 10 :-( I am eager to see him gone, so as to eliminate the uncomfortableness, but then he is gone and all the expertise is gone because they made the job for him a year ago. It is truly a terrible situation. However, I am very confident that I can do this. God answers all prayers, right? He brought me out here for a reason, and I am going to allow him to continue to steer this vessel for me. And everyone that I have talked with says that I am really going to need to give this position a few months to really get comfortable. I did have a one-on-one with the Executive Director who is over Test and oversees this facility on Friday, and he has assured me that they are not looking for me to understand everything in one day. He expects this to take time...and he did not expect me to get very far with the individual that I am replacing simply because of the situation.

The people here are great and they are very helpful. The parking (of which I have a loaded Murano until my Maxima gets here) is unbelievable. I am literally 20 feet from the door. And the drive is so simple. I am 35 minutes from work and I am surrounded by mountains on all sides. I have tried to take some pictures with my phone, but the pictures are not that good. I will bring my camera this week. The only drawback is the smell. We are surrounded by cattle farms which give off a smell that you can't really imagine, LOL, but that is only for about 5 minutes, so you can bear it.

My new boss is absolutely amazing. Her name is Anita. She runs the Proving Ground. She is the most organized, professional, personable supervisor that I have ever had. She is very empowering. We had a one-on-one last night (yes, night - 6:30 p.m, long day) and she really put my mind at ease about my job and her expectations and how things are going to be great! She even said that we would have to go out and get to know each other. I am very much so looking forward to working for her.

Matt's birthday was yesterday. We went to his favorite sushi restaurant out here in Northern Scottsdale. It was called Blue Wasabi, but has since changed hands a month ago and is now Banzai Cowboy...yeah, it was a trip! We sat in this little coved booth, drinking martinis/Kirin, eating the most amazing sushi (that had this southwest flair to it - really good), and listening to country music. What more could you ask for? :-) The owners, both brothers, are about in their 40s and very hip. The one that runs the kitchen came and introduced himself, Greg, and really made us feel at home. Matt was sung Happy Birthday in English, Italian (the owners nationality) and then Polish (one of their friends) and they brought over a piece of chocolate mouse/coffee flavored cheesecake (yummy) with a candle on the top. It was a memorable evening. Happy birthday, honey!

Happy Easter!

Our day didn't go as planned, but it was an AWESOME day! A great ending to a wonderful first weekend in Arizona with my husband and Baxter.

We started out our Easter Sunday with church services at 8:50. We had planned on attending the 7:30, but I think that the time change is finally catching up with me. Matt had also wanted to see what their traditional services are like (because that is what he prefers), but the 8:50 service was contemporary. However, there were still many traditional aspects to the service. All-in-all, it was very nice. I say it that way because I think that personally, this will be the hardest change besides not seeing the children. I really love our church home at Faith. However, as Matt reminded me, these churches out here are so new. They do not have the following yet like a well established church like Faith. Plus, we just don't have the population of people here like in Troy. Rison Savior Lutheran is the largest church in the area with the exception of driving into Phoenix proper. There are approximately 300 in attendance at each service (there are 4 services on Sunday), and there is Children's Church at two of the services which is great. This is what it looks like:

It is very pretty!! We do want to visit again this coming week, and we do want to visit their traditional services next. There are 4 more churches, though, that we want to visit in the area, so we believe it may be a while before we make a decision on a church home.

We came home, ate a snack, made our sack lunches, and then headed over to our second hike for the weekend. LOL, if we only knew our leisure hike was going to turn into mountain climbing! Matt just kept saying, "Let's just go a little further...Let's just go a little further." Once we knew that we had the endurance to make it to the top of Superstition's Flat Iron, the highest peak, we just couldn't say no. Our hike lasted 6 hours! Getting to the top was the most empowering thing I have ever done! It made me stop and realize that anything I am determined to do, I can probably do. And look at my reward:

The most beautiful view you could imagine! And unfortunately, the pictures just do not do it justice. You really have to be there to believe it. It was so funny because after our hike/climb we met this older couple (we believe late 60s) and they asked if we had enjoyed our hike and where our day had taken us. We told them that we had just hiked/climbed Flatiron for the first time, and the man said, "Well, I'll be...I'd like to shake your hand!" And he did! He told us that it had been about 3 years since he had did it because he wasn't in that sort of shape any longer...but let me tell you, he looked in great shape! I must admit, it blew up our egos a little :-)

It was the most remarkable day! It was such a great Easter gift from God. I thank him for giving us such amazing places like The Flatiron to deeply understand the love that he has for this beautiful universe...and for us!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter with their family and friends.

Shopping and Biking

Today was another great day with the exeption of the weather...and even that wasn't so bad.

We started out the day with an awesome visit with Melissa and Tyler in the morning on the web cams. They are doing great! It sounds as though they have had a really nice Spring break with their mother and step father. We were able to sit with them and visit for a little over an hour and then they had to go. We were very happy to see how excited they were to talk with us. Just two more weeks and we will see them. We understand from their mom that both the kids have games on the Saturday we are in town. We are both very excited to take them and watch them play.

After that, we were off to the Chandler Fashion Square Mall. All I have to say is that I really do not need to go into Scottsdale...okay, well, for the exception of getting my obsession for expensive tea filled at Teavana (Em - you know all about that); closest place to get it. So anyway, CFSM has everything anyone would need...Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Banana Republic, and tons of West Coast beachwear stores (Hurley, Pac Sun, Buckle, Stash, Tillies...you name it!) I got a really cute new pair of brown Kenneth Cole heals and another pair of black Madden heals for a steal (Robin and Em - you would be so proud!) I considered it a very productive day with my shopping buddy - truth be told, he picked out the Madden's!

After the mall, Mom and Dad called on the web cams too (gosh, I love the web cams). We are very excited to see them also in two weeks when we come in. We miss them very much.

After our little break, we were off for a bike ride...15 miles! It started to rain the last 6 miles, but with the uphill climbs that we were doing the rain didn't feel so bad. Plus, after it stopped, the most beautiful rainbow appeared that started at South Mountain and ended in the valley. We were at the perfect elevation to view both ends. Yeah, I know, where was my camera? I always have that darn camera every other time...just not at the right time! I hadn't brought it because I don't have a bike bag and I wore my biking shorts, of which do not have pockets. I think now Matt and I can justify one :-)

We made sure our bike ride was productive, and we scoped out a few more communities. We found another home to place on our radar, and it sure is pretty. I still hope there is a chance with Desert Broom Way (our favorite), but I am thankful to see that as houses fall off the radar screen they are soon replaced with another remarkable home. I do believe, though, that we have settled on staying in the Ahwatukee area. Matt has been sold for about a month now, but I wasn't. It is obvious to me now that it's because I wasn't down here living. The other areas that were on the list (Chandler and Gilbert) are nice, but they don't have the outdoor recreation like the Ahwatukee area provides. I mean, you don't have to drive anywhere - the mountain is right here! Now, there are a few more mountainous areas more south, and we are going to check them out; we are keeping an open mind. However, Matt is only 6 miles from work. I would like to keep him close because of owning the Commander now. I will have a company lease car, so it doesn't really matter. We had another showing today, and have another one scheduled for Monday. Matt and you, Tammie, are pretty certain that the house will sell by a certain date. However, I am not even saying when so as to not jinx us :-) We are in hopes to be looking for a home to put an offer on real soon.

Tonight will be an early evening, for tomorrow we will rise early to visit Risen Savior Lutheran Church. It is one of the LCMS churches in our area (thanks Mom for helping me find some!). The morning traditional service starts at 7:50; Matt picked :-) Then we will hike Picacho Peak! More to come on that tomorrow!!

It is Official - We Are Arizonans! (And We Took Our First Hike)

It is really late and I would like to spend a few hours with my husband before I go to bed, so I will just say that you need to check out our pictures from the day's activities (to the left). We had such a great day!

It started with getting the car registered, us getting our licenses, and having a great lunch. We hiked approximately 4 miles (more than 3,000 feet asl) and then did a 4 mile trek through the suburbs of Ahwatukee with the dog looking at houses.

We ended the night with a great dinner, great wine, and a soak in the hot tub. Can life be any more relaxing?!?!

Tonight a storm is coming through. They said we are forecasted to get rain, but we are highly doubtful...maybe on the moutain range. The only thing we have gotten thus far is high winds. It is 80 degrees here, but I actually wore a sweatshirt on our walk tonight. I know, I know...it sounds crazy...but it is a different sort of heat.

Miss everyone very much. I talked to you, Daddy, tonight. I hope you are still around in two weeks so that I can see you, but I know you are getting bored and want to head down to Florida with Mom. I understand if you have to leave before we get here, but I bring presents! (wink, wink) Love you!!!

Sun and Fun

Today was my first full day here in Arizona. It was a lot of fun exploring my new city!


As you know from the earlier blog, Matt came home for lunch. After lunch, I picked up a bit and then headed to the pool to relax. I didn't sleep very well last night, so it was nice to catch up...and get some really good sun! I took my book and towel and was the only person at the pool. I heard nothing but birds chirping and the water from the fountains in the pool. It was sooooo wonderful!


Matt came home after 5, and we headed over to LifeTime. All I can say is wow. It is really different to be running on the treadmill, look outside, and see palm trees. And the outside pool area...the kids are going to love it! It is better than the Troy Aquatic Center. They even have a food bar right next to the pool for snacks and meals. Just awesome! Then we left, and it was 70 degrees. We drove home with the windows down...it was beautiful.


We put dinner in the oven, and then walked to Target with Baxter. We decided this morning that we needed two more pillows...and I got my new coffee cup. I stayed with Baxter outside, so Matt picked it out. He did a good job :-)


So after our nice walk with the dog, we ate dinner and sat down for a little tv. Matt wanted to watch Harper's Island, that mini series, and I am just not into scary movies, so here I am!


Tomorrow is our first hike. We are both looking forward to it. South Mountain is our choice. Prior to our hike, we will be going to officially make ourselves Arizona residents...we are getting our licenses changed. Matt wanted to wait for me, so that we could both go together. Such a Matt thing! Then we have to go to Nordstrom Rack (Yes! They have one close by!!!!) because this silly girl forgot her outside walking shoes. Oh darn, have to take me shopping, LOL.


I hope everyone has a very nice Good Friday tomorrow. I will leave you with this picture...Baxter just has not gotten caught up on his sleep yet either!


I promise to take lots of pictures tomorrow on our hike. I am sure I will catch some beautiful scenery!

Flight and First Day

Well, I am here!

The flight was a bit difficult, but all-in-all, I would travel with Baxter again. Dad picked me up and we arrived at Metro Airport around 9:00. It took 1 1/2 hours to get checked in. First, they had to check my luggage, then the woman behind the desk had to ensure all the proper paperwork had been completed (shots, rabies, full examination by the vet, had been fed and given water, etc.). She was quite surprised that I had done my homework and had all the necessary information already presented and plastered to the top of his kennel with shipping tape. Then we had to wait for the TSA Agent to come and approve the kennel and Baxter's condition. I even had to take Baxter out of his cage, so that the TSA Agent could look him over. By that time, Baxter was a little groggy (yes, after all the recommendations, I did sedate him with the medication the vet gave me. I am glad that I did. It definitely made him more comfortable - especially with the extra 2 hours that we were on the ground) The TSA Agent commented on how well I had prepared for this flight; even commenting that he hadn't seen someone so well prepared in a while :-) After that, a nice woman came and took Baxter away on a rolling cart. I was told that he would await our flight in a comfortable holding area for animals. It didn't matter, by that time I was crying. I was so glad that Dad was there. It made things so much easier...well, easier for the Baxter process, but not easy to leave him. Needless to say, I was a mess by the time I made it to my gate. Makeup had to be redone. Love you Dad...see you in two weeks - I promise!

Our flight was 2 hours late getting off the ground, which made everyone on the plane highly miserable. I was very stressed out. We sat in the terminal for an hour, then we boarded, to only sit on the plane for an extra hour. Everyone cheered when we pulled away from the gate. They informed us that it was a security issue...don't really know what, but we may have been better off not knowing, LOL. As we were pulling away from the gate, a nice stewardess came to me with a slip and confirmed that Baxter had been placed on the plane at that very moment...boy, was I relieved :-)

We landed in Phoenix to a beautiful 78 degrees. It was just absolutely beautiful!!!!! I watched from my seat (yuck, row 26 seat F - I mean, at least I had a window seat and my row mates, Phil and Barbara, were awesome) as they unloaded Baxter from the cargo area. He was the only pet on the flight - poor baby. I could see that he was sitting up and was very attentive to the men getting the luggage off the plane. The one man continued to talk to him the entire time. I was very appreciative. I can only imagine what was going on in his head.

Matt had parked in temporary parking and was waiting for me right outside of security. I was sooooo glad to see him. He looked so nice. You can definitely tell that the AZ environment has changed him - he is nice and tan and the extra exercise that he has been getting is definitely paying off :-) We walked, hand-in-hand, to go get my luggage and the baby. They brought Baxter up by elevator, and within minutes of getting him my luggage came. We were ready to go home. As soon as we got to the car, Baxter came out of his kennel. He was so excited to see Daddy...but more excited to get out of that stupid kennel. The evening consisted of going and getting a few things I did not pack, picking up a nice bottle of wine for dinner and my No Pudge Brownie mix from Trader Joe's that I can't live without, getting comfy in our new "digs", and of course watching LOST.

Here is the view from the parking lot at Trader Joe's

This is coming home from our drive last night; the lights in the bottom right is Ahwatukee

We did go by the Desert Broom home that we really like. It is beautifully lit up at night (right next to the foothills). They even have a water fountain in the entrance way as you walk up. I would love it if we could sell ours and put an offer on that home, but if that one sells another one will replace it. There are just so many to choose from. I really do like that area, though, and would like to continue to search for homes there. I like the exclusivity - one way in and one way out (because of the foothills); sort of like Algonac.

I was a trooper last night and made it to 10:30 (1:30 MI time). We are planning for Melissa and Tyler's trip out here in May, so we sat and watched the Disneyland DVD that Matt ordered. We have only been to Disneyworld, so Disneyland is going to be such a fun trip for all of us.

It is only 10:30 here currently. Baxter and I got up with Daddy and had breakfast with him before he went to work. We then did a little exploring on foot - walked about 4 miles. Not surprising is the fact that it is already 60-something degrees here. Baxter's body has not acclimated to the heat yet, I can tell; he tired out very quickly. Thankfully, Mommy was prepared and brought his walking water bottle. I am learning quickly here that you do not go anywhere without water - no matter what the thermometer says. We made it home with no incidents, but I regret not taking my camera with me. The view on our walk was AMAZING! The mountains are all around you. I also need to comment on the fact that I can not understand how ANYONE is fat in this state. There are so many opportunities to excercise and be outside...and it is way too bloody hot to want to eat a lot! LOL

Well, I have about an hour before Matt comes home for lunch. I am going to just pick up a little around the apartment and then wait for him. It is about a six minute drive. After lunch, I need to walk to Target and pick up a few things...yeah, had to drink my coffee out of a Pyrex measuring cup today. Not doing that tomorrow!

Love everyone very much!! I will post some pictures today also :-)

Two Days To Go, And Snow!

This is what Michigan gave me today as a farewell:

This is the view outside my cubicle. Isn't it beautiful? It took me 2 1/2 hours to get to work today...sure won't miss that!

Lot's going on tonight...Baxter's vet appointment, dinner with Julia and weighing my luggage at Kristin's. I finally found someone with a scale (thank goodness!) I am dying to know how much my bag weighs. :-)

I have been working with Baxter now for two days on getting him comfortable with his flight kennel. At first, he was very unhappy with me...it is amazing how persuasive a few hunter's sausages can be :-) I got him getting into it on his own last night with me throwing the treat in the kennel. Tonight, he will only be rewarded AFTER he gets in it on his own with me commanding him. We shall see how that goes. The vet appointment is at 5:30 this evening to get all of his travel paperwork, so I may give him a little slack. He is such a good puppy. I have really appreciated him these past few weeks that no one has been around. We have really grown close. I can not even imagine how much he is going to love Arizona...well, when we can keep him cool. I think he will love it. Thursday, Matt has to work, so Baxter and I will spend a lot of time getting him used to his surroundings. It is supposed to be around 78 degrees (cooler than it has been), so it will be nice and pleasant for him.

Diane is showing our house tonight to one of her clients that is looking in Raintree. I hope something good comes out of it. We have just had so many showings...someone has to buy it eventually, right? Oh, I hope so!

Hope everyone is having a good day!

Sunday at Starbucks!

So, I caught whatever Melissa has had for the past week, and I am feeling quite ill today. My throat is really scratchy, feeling chilly and my voice is gone. However, I have had showing after showing today...therefore, I have spent the entire afternoon at Starbucks drinking mochas and giving Matt directions to houses while he drives around Phoenix...on his bike!! :-)

I am completely packed and Baxter too is ready to go. I am very anxious to get on the plane Wednesday...and a little nervous about how much my piece of luggage weighs. Reality is starting to settle in that this is really happening and I am leaving. The cable has been turned off, our internet is gone, and the phone has been cancelled. The house will be uninhabited by Whipples for two and a half weeks. I have friends that will stop by and occasionally stay to ensure our house is okay and the plants are being taken care of. I am just so happy that things are progressing nicely. I am so ready. Dad is picking me up on Wednesday morning and will take me to work to drop off my car and then take me to the airport.

Spoke to Diane today and she is feeling very optimistic about how many showings we have had in the past few days. We just need a buyer!!!!!

I spent last night with my family...it was such a nice time. I am going to miss them. Mark, your pizza rocked! :-)

Gosh, I can not wait to see Matt. Only 3 more days!!!!!!

One More Week!

Well, I officially leave in one week...I am so excited. The count down can now begin!

For the next week I must prepare Baxter and me for our journey. His backpack and the kennel must be prepared with the stickers, and my last piece of luggage must be packed. I really don't have much left to take with me. Matt was kind enough to take most of it last week with him. This will make it much easier for me since I will need to care for Baxter at the airport. I am a little nervous about how all that will go, and really upset that he is too big to travel with me so he will be in cargo. However, I have to get him to Arizona and thankfully, Kristin will be taking me to the airport and Matt will be in Phoenix when I land, so I will have a lot of help.

Tomorrow I will need to work from home since Consumer's Energy will be here to fix one of our pipes. I am glad that we are getting this out of the way now, so that an inspector will not tell us what we already know and then scramble to get it fixed. I am just bummed that it is more money going out the door...selling a house sure is expensive! :-)

I have already started to receive "homework" from my new boss, so that I can hit the ground running when I arrive at ATC on Tuesday. I have been marathon studying/reading up on our capital expenditures; one of my new job responsibilities. I know, ohhh...ahhh. I can hear the excitement in the air. However, I love numbers, and this is what I have been waiting for my whole life - a career in my field, so I am very excited about these new challenges. :-) I was also identified as the ATC Vehicle Fleet Super Shatan today, which will make me responsible for all fleet vehicles on the grounds...some other new responsibilities. I am so ready for this...

I want to let everyone know how blessed I am feeling lately. You, my friends, have truly stepped up these past few days since the announcement of my departure to assist me in the move or just offer moral support. I have "going-away" events planned for almost every day until I leave. That makes me feel so loved. Thank you...each and every one of you...

I also have dinner planned with my family for Saturday that I am really excited about...I love you guys. Although disfunctional at times, we always come through for each other!

No new news on the house...we continue to wait. I am patient.

Arizona Bound

Well, Matt is back on a plane and Arizona bound...along with almost all of my clothes, my coffee maker, grinder, cutting board, and enough silverware to get us through until the house is packed up and entirely moved. His first piece of checked luggage weighed 42 pounds and the second weighed 35. Matt says we need to work better next time to get the second closer to 50. I was very proud of how well we packed. Mind you, he carried on a pretty heavy duffel bag that included my coffee maker.

Funny story tonight - Matt had difficulty getting through security tonight with his carry-on. They had entirely searched his belongings when it occurred to him that it may be the coffee pot. I guess there is a metal strip that runs through it. Well, after it had been completely sniffed, they were able to confidently say that he was not going to hurt anyone on the plane with a coffee pot. However, he did give the security guards a good laugh. I guess they don't see anyone try to get through security with a small four-cupper in their carry-on very often :-) However, this is also the man that got stopped in security, Michigan bound, two years ago with a huge wrench in his laptop bag. Seems during his hot weather trip he placed it in there while typing up test results not thinking he would forget it was there and then try to go through Phoenix security...silly boy.

I left myself with enough clothes to get through the next 7 days of work, and one last weekend. I will be able to pack a pretty good size piece of luggage on Wednesday with my stuff and the dog's too. Today we went and bought Baxter's kennel and "plane kit" which includes bowls that attach to the door, stickers to be placed on the kennel that read "LIVE ANIMAL" and then a pouch for his medical records. I also bought him another bone today so that he would have something to occupy his time while in cargo. I can't even imagine what that must be like...poor baby. Everything else is pretty much done. They are not shipping my car, so I had to order a new one (oh darn) on Friday. Company Vehicles said that it would be delivered quite close to my arrival date. I am glad that I was able to order something and get it that quickly. That is costumer service!

All in all it was a wonderful weekend. I am so glad that we didn't really have a lot to do on the house, so the kids were able to spend some good time with Daddy...and Melissa got her stir fry! The count down to see the kids this next time is longer than it has been (and I won't be around either), so I am slightly concerned that it will be a little harder on the kids. I am really glad that the web cams are now positioned at everyone's houses and the kids have been told that they can talk to us whenever their mom permits them. The time difference makes things difficult (but not impossible), so I am hoping we can establish something that works for everyone. I guess we shall see how things go.

Let's hope and pray that we have another busy week with showings. Last week was GREAT! Now, I just want to see some interest...I know, I must be patient and rely on Him.

Good night for now!

Gas? Nope

So, it has been a really great last weekend with the kids....it seems so weird to say that. Honestly, it has not sunk in that this is my last weekend in MI with the kids.

Matt flew in Friday night, but did not land until 5:00 am Saturday morning. We did our normal Saturday routine when Daddy is in town...pick-up, breakfast at Ram's Horn in Rochester and then back to the house to relax. Only this Saturday was different...we had two showings at 10 o'clock. So we did go back to the house for about an hour, but then headed over to the cinema at Mound and M59 to pick up our tickets for Monsters vs. Aliens. I had read online that they too had an IMAX theater. I was able to get tickets for the 1:00 showing. The kids were pretty excited. We then ran over to Meijer to pick up dinner for Sunday. It was Melissa's turn to pick and she wants Daddy's stir-fry. It is soooo good :-) We had to do a few "drive-bys" passed the house after shopping because the potential buyers were still in the house. We were able to go back home around 11:15. We had a little lunch and then headed back over to the cinema around 12:30. The movie was excellent. There were lots of parts that were funny that even Matt and I chuckled. Last night, Matt was actually able to bowl on the league which was really nice. Everyone was really happy to see him.

So, onto the subject title. Friday night we had a really great showing. They were here 30 minutes longer than they were supposed to just standing outside in the driveway looking up at the house. We all sat in our cars (Kristin with her three and me with my two) until they left. I don't know much about selling homes, but Kristin said that was a really good sign. Well, later that night I get a call from Diane. She says that she was concerned because the agent thought he smelled gas in the laundry/furnace room. To make a long story short, Matt and I called Consumer's Energy and there is nothing to be concerned about. We just have an old furnace and old pipes. We did find a slight seapage in one of the connections of the piping, but was easily fixed that night. What a relief!

I am really hoping that our home sells quicker than normal. I have everything lined up with the house while I am gone...how friends come through...and feel confident that everything will be okay after I move. Matt is taking two suitcases back with him today, so that all of my clothes will be there when I get there. That is really the only thing I need. Well, and my coffee pot! That is going also. :-) I just can not wait to get down south with Matt. It is so hard to be away from him.

No calls today, thus far, for showings on the home. I know that I shouldn't wish for a quiet afternoon/evening, but I would really like one. I would love us to be able to stay around here and just play and visit. We shall see how it goes.

I will post more later...

It's Official - I Have a Move Date

So, it has been confirmed today that I will be transferring to Nissan's Arizona Proving Ground and will begin work on April 14th. I will be supporting Arizona Operations. Wow, what a relief!!!! Thank the Lord that he has taken care of just one more thing. He is awesome, isn't he? Now, I pray that he takes care of our home. I know he will...in his time.

Baxter and I will be traveling on Wednesday, April 8th. Our non-stop flight departs at 12:10 pm. We touch down at 1:45. I will need to go in the next week to buy his special traveling kennel and fill out all the paperwork that goes along with shipping a live animal. He also has a vet appointment to prove he is up to date on all of his shots Tuesday, April 7th. Can you believe my ticket was half the price of his? Amazing how expensive it is, but he will be with me and then we will be with Matt. Matt says, "Any price is worth it!" :-)

I am so thankful for such a loving and merciful God. He has gotten me through every step of this journey.

We have our 9th showing tonight at 7:30. Please God hear my prayer on the sale of this home.

Webcams Are Here!

The webcams came yesterday and Kristin was nice enough to help me set mine up last night during commercials of LOST. Mine works really good. We have internet being connected in the apartment tomorrow, which is great. The apartment wireless has been coming in and out, and will definitely not be compatible with Skype. Also, Matt is having some problems with his service pack 2, but is very determined to get it working very soon. I am confident it will be up and running very quickly; Matt really wants to "see" the kids.

I did confirm that the couple that came to see the house last night was a new couple. I was a little bummed that it was not a second showing, but I keep telling myself that this will happen on God's watch, not mine. I just hope a really nice family with a couple of children end up here...just like us. This home has brought us such joy these past couple years. I am proud to call this our home. We would not be moving if it was not for Matt's job. We had planned on retiring here. I hope that another woman walks into this house and feels the same warmth that I feel...the warmth of a home, not just a house with four walls.

Only 8 more days until I get to see Matt. I am very excited. I have been keeping myself busy at the gym, and I am finally starting to see a change. I think Matt and I have this little unspoken competition going on (like everything)...we will see who looks better in 8 days :-)

First Weekday Evening Showing

I am very excited that we have our first weekday evening showing. With all of the new under cabinet lighting and recessed lighting above the fireplace, the home is just absolutely beautiful at night. I am hoping that this is a second showing, but I have not been able to confirm. I have placed a call with Diane, and I am awaiting her call back.

The count down continues for Matt to be home. Only 9 more days! I miss him so much.

Continue with your prayers. I know they are helping. Diane said that she feels VERY optimistic about how much we have shown our home thus far. She said that is a really good sign.

More to come...

Matthew 19:26

Yes, with God, all things are possible! That was our children’s memory verse for the week that I taught them yesterday. I find it so comforting how He finds ways to talk to me and reassure me that things will be okay every day!

I had a really amazing talk with Sue, our Assistant Director of Children’s Ministry, and she informed me that my children will be taken care of when I leave…that she has already lined up a full time small group leader!!!! I can’t believe it. What a blessing J We have had such hardships this year with volunteers. The fact that she has already found someone is outstanding. She said to me that I need not worry about anything. She feels that God will set everything in motion shortly with my job and the house. She is right. He has been so awesome in making everything work smoothly thus far, what are a few more minor details?! He provided Matt with a job, and that was the most important.

I received feedback on the two couples that came through and looked at the house on Saturday. They are really looking for a home with a master bath. In Raintree? Are they kidding? Well, at least the negative feedback thus far has not been terrible feedback.

I will continue to pray and put faith in Him.

Saturday Adventures

Today is the first Saturday that the house has been on the market. I am slightly nervous about what I do all day long. However, I made sure I have a pretty tightly packed day, so that should help me somewhat. The first showing is at 12:00 noon. I have completely vacuumed the house (I am surprised that the carpeting hasn't started to unravel), washed all the dishes and packed myself a bag for the day. I have a hair appointment at 12:00, then I will go and work out, and then I have bowling.

I worry about Baxter. We played all morning, he went outside a few times, he had breakfast, and is now lying on the couch. I feel bad that I will be gone all day, but maybe I can convince him that it is a weekday and Momma is just going to work...maybe :-) probably not.

I haven't got any more calls regarding showings, but since I will be gone all day it doesn't really matter. Nothing planned for tomorrow, and I really hope that changes.