Where did all this STUFF come from???

Movers come tomorrow morning at 8am. Packing is now our every focus. Where items were once carefully placed in a well organized box of like things, fully labeled to room and contents, we are at the point where the biggest decision is 'garbage or a box'. We'll surely end up openning a box to be surprised by sneakers, spices and sweaters (why are we packing sweaters if we're moving to florida!!) all nestled together just waiting to pop out. I'm now just hoping nothing live finds its way into a box as it will not be in the same condition upon arrival.

Our house was organized once, not now. It was somewhat clean, definately not now. It was a bit charming, no charm now. It is a house that is in transition - losing one family and getting ready to welcome another. We'd like to think we gave this house a new life, made it a bit younger-but wise, gave it an opportunity to influence its neighboring houses to encourage their families for more care and upkeep.

This house had alot of happy times in it. And some transitioning times. Sara and Tulin were quite young when they came to their own room. Tulin announced that she had never seen a house so big! It is 1200 sq ft. The girls helped their dad prepare the ground for planting each season - vying for rototiller duty. They picked veggies and fruits to eat with their dad, or experiment in the kitchen.

The kitchen and the back yard were our gathering spots. When the weather was good, visitors would just walk around to the back yard knowing they'd find us hanging out. Mark gained notoriety with his BBQs in this yard - with a few visits from the Redwood City fire department along the way. When the weather was especially hot, we'd sleep on the deck only to be woken by either raccoons or the bright moon. My favorite memories are sitting on the steps of the deck in the evening, wine in hand, fire in the firepit, friends and family around.

We'll miss you, house! Take care of your new family.