Trading Flip Flops for Cowboy Boots

Ok, I probably will not rock cowboy boots. 

We are moving to Nashville, Tennessee! I can't quite believe it. Stu and I have been trying to move our family out of Florida for 13 years. And it is finally happening. 

As our wedding approached in 2006, we went to Nashville for job interviews (Stu even had an official offer from a police department) and shopped for houses with a realtor. Then some conversations happened, decisions were made, and we stayed in Florida. Since then, we have randomly attempted to find jobs in various other states... I think at least 10 states have our resumes. The doors never opened. 

So we stayed. 

And dreamt of four seasons. 

I'm not knocking the Sunshine State. I love it here. It is the only state I have ever called home. Our three babies were born here. 

But the dream of moving away never left us. We prayed. Prayed for doors to open. And waited. Patiently. 

In May, we traveled to Nashville for our niece's graduation. Reagan fell instantly in love with the area, as did I 15 years ago. And just like that, we were back on the moving train. I applied for a few teaching jobs at some of the local private schools (once upon a time I taught high school English). And Stu reached out to a company in the area. 

All the pieces started falling into place for Stu. It felt as though it happened overnight. Apply. Pray. Bam! Job offer. 

I'm still in a bit of shock. 

So often the answer has been NO. I am excited and terrified. I have faith that it's the right time and place for us. I am excited that my kids will be able to grow up around cousins (Stu and I both have family in the area), although we will miss being super close to both grandparents and my sisters. I am thrilled to experience living in four seasons. I can't wait to explore a new city and state. 

The flip side to all the excitement is my anxiety. For as obnoxious as I can be, I am actually really shy and introverted. It's difficult and scary to make friends. And I LOVE the friends I have here. The adult in me says, "Don't be ridiculous. You're not breaking up with these people." But I will really miss my mom tribe. You have keep me sane (ish). 

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Below is just a slideshow of some of my fondest Florida memories... and things we will miss most: Disney and swimming all the time. 

I'll keep you posted on the move and our Tennessee adventures!

Now I have the insane task of packing. AAAAHHHHH!

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