Ready for an update?? I've been pestered for NEVER updating my blog...so here's to all the complainers. :)
We have a house!! It was unbelievable how God orchestrated the whole thing! We are so pleased with how everything has worked out...God has such a great plan for us if we're willing to be patient and wait on Him! We did not believe we could own our first home downtown, but we do!! We're two blocks from Washington and 5 blocks from the channel!
We love our new home and are slowly feeling like we own it, instead of it owning us! We've been constantly working on house projects--the entire main level has new (refinished) floors, there have been massive amounts of paint used, and I have rid myself of excess energy and frustration by ripping things apart (and putting them back together)! :) Wally has shown me he does, contrary to popular belief, have some handyman skills! He's been AWESOME at ripping up old flooring and sanding all the original floor boards. All his hard work has paid off--his projects look amazing!! He finally has a proper office as well! He painted the walls a deep red and has gone with a "old hollywood" feel. He told me a few weeks ago I'm not allowed home alone anymore since whenever that happens there's some new project started that he inevitably gets roped into! He's been a great sport throughout the whole thing! We've have some great help, too! Grandpa, Mom, Dad, and Jeff have all put in many hours to help us! THANKS!
In other news...we're still plugging away at our jobs. Wally heads up MOTO and is well into writing his first book! I am still the nerdy substitute teacher, which I love! I'm working on my master's in counseling, which I also love! Spring Arbor's program is fabulous, and I really enjoy the classes and work (really, I do!) I knew I couldn't last long with no school work! :)
We are really looking forward to Christmas this year! It'll be our first Christmas in our home, and my entire family is coming for Christmas!! I'm excited for everyone to be in Grand Haven for the holidays. My Grandpa was diagnosed lung cancer the day before Thanksgiving, so to have the whole family together means a lot this year! I have loved to see our family step up and be so supportive.
Have a joyful holiday season and remember JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! :)

In His grip,
Sarah