These last few days at home with my family has giving me some time to reflect on where we are.
We moved to Tonasket 5 months ago and life seems to be normal again. I am adjusting to being so far away from well.......everything. It has not been easy not having options for shopping and activities but we are learning a way around those things.
I have been working in the Special Ed department at the Elementary School since school started. I really like it. Its not easy but it always changes and is fun most of the time. My co-workers are above wonderful. The job I had in the tri-cities was important and challenging but I am so much happier now. I am not stressed about work all the time and I get to be with Bryan and the girls so much more. Its more hours and less money but it has been really good for me to do less stress and be home when the girls are home.
Bryan has settled into his new job with the Colville Tribe. He likes what he does but the 3 hours a day in the car is a trial. We are still pondering what we can do to cut down on that time. His days that start at 4:30am and end at 6:15pm. I hope in the future that commute can improve somehow.
I love the idea that Tonasket could be our forever home. I have found positives and negatives being in the area. But it seems to me we find that everywhere we go. We are ready to stay in one place and make a home here. Our ward family is wonderful, we like the community, and we already have good friends.
I can say for sure I am much happier than I have been in the last few years. Are things easier? No. Less trials? No. I have a peace about my life and I am so thankful for the blessings we have received.
Christmas is all wrapped up at our house.
We are leaving for Ohio tomorrow so I moved Christmas up a day.
This is our first year with the girls knowing the "truth" about Santa. I really wish it didn't end so soon. I was more bummed about it than i thought I would be. Daddy Clause did make it easier. It was fun to have Bryan in the suit.
He wore it for our church Christmas party. It was so much fun to see him with all those kids.
I laugh when i see this picture. I don't know who taught Abby the "chicken wing" arm pose but she has got it down!
Our Ice Fishing Trip was loads of fun.
I'm not going to lie, the only reason I go is because we sit in a tent with a heater!
We still put cookies out for Santa the night before and opened our new pajamas. I will not be letting go of that tradition any time soon.
The next morning the little "angels" woke us up at 5:15am to open presents. Notice its still dark outside for these pictures. But it was still great fun.
