The Arlington Experience

We will load the truck today- 1,600 cubic feet worth of personal belongings. They all seem so distant now, all packed in boxes with the dishes and towels intermixed.

There are many things we will miss about living in Arlington. At the top of that list is the close proximity to my family that we have enjoyed. Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Parents/Grandparents- there are no real substitutes for these special relationships and our time with them has been very precious indeed. We've had so many celebrations together that our almost-two-year-old questioned the purpose of our recent gathering: "My birthday party?" It wasn't, but Aunt Kari lit two candles on his dessert and we sang to him twice. We will really, really miss you guys.

We will also miss our fantastic Ward, especially the Relief Society sisters. My wonderful experiences at church are highlights of the last 9 1/2 months. I have many good memories. Thank you, Arlington First Ward.

We enjoyed a slew of touristy family adventures locally and at points south. Williamsburg at Christmas, Florida in October, D.C. in the heat of August and the dead of winter.... We won't have to miss your snowstorms because we plan to take them back with us for next year, but we'll enjoy the efficient plowing up North, that's for sure.

I won't miss very many things about our rental house, well, maybe the depth of the kitchen sink. I like this sink. And the gorgeous cherry trees. But the oak trees and their acorns, the creaky floors, the noise from the playground and construction site, the feeling of living inside an igloo/basement apartment- none of these will be missed.

For now, I will enjoy my last day in Arlington. There's work to be done so I have to go, but I'll be back. Happy My Moving Day to you!