Seattle City Living

We've officially sold our little Ballard house. I'm feeling a variety of emotions as I think about leaving the house that Ty and bought as newlyweds and will be leaving as a family of four, well five if you include Jake. Within these walls we raised a puppy and two infants. We've created an amazing community and regularly run into friends at Target, Costco and the local parks. I've connected with so many amazing people (mostly moms) in the past few years that it's hard to imagine being without them. From Ty's brothers and my fabulous sister in laws to my work crew to my PEPS friends to the girls from church, our village is vast.

There are so many things I love about this house. The kitchen cabinets that gradually close, the open layout that makes 900 square feet livable, the porch, the craftsmanship and the charm. The amazing neighborhood and friends we've met via proximity. The location and ability to walk and get doughnuts from Larson's, coffee, fresh fish or beer from the mini mart. I love walking Owen to preschool and that there are four great parks within two miles. I love meeting friends at greenlake, the easy access to the zoo, aquarium and science center. I love it that there are vast options when it comes to great places to eat and drink. I love being close to work and the progressive influence the city has had on me.

As much as I love living in the city it has become clear over the past few months that now is the time for a move. The way Seattle real estate has exploded made this house an incredible investment and with the proceeds we will be able to find an amazing home in Gig Harbor. As I mourn the loss of this house and the lifestyle that surrounds it, more than anything I feel grateful. Grateful that my happiness is not determined by geography. Grateful that my family is what makes a home. Grateful for the assurance that I will be happy regardless of where we live. I know that after we get settled in our new Gig Harbor community we'll find just as many things to love about it. There is already a long list of things I'm looking forward to. Being close to Rach, Grammy and Grandpapa, not having to pay to park when I take the kids to the doctor, a larger living space with a big yard and outdoor furniture, not having to critically think in order to figure out where everyone is going to sleep. I'm looking forward to working out at the YMCA, affordable daycare, good schools and learning how to feels to be a family in a small town.

Change is never easy and this is a huge shift for our family but I am confident it's exactly where we need to be and what we want to do. Our little Ballard craftsman will forever hold a special place in my heart and our family history.