The countdown has begun and the realization of all the changes to come has set in. We are in temporary housing at the Residence Inn, just a few blocks from the house. The house is completely empty and cleaned. We will hopefully be able to sell the house in the coming weeks in this market.
Mike's parents have just left this morning and that was hard. Their help was invaluable the last 3 weeks in helping us with the transition. They had plenty of time and opportunities to spend quality time with the kids. They had initially come out to watch the kids while Mike and I went to Australia (AU) for a week to find a house and schools for the kids.
That trip was successful. We were able to find schools for the kids, find a house to rent pretty close to the schools, purchase a car, get a driving lesson (to get used to the driving rules and driving on the left side), and check out the area. We will be living in Thornside, which is on the coast about 25 min. from Brisbane. The kids' schools are in Manly, which is about 10 minutes north of our house. The best part of the house is having an ocean view from our deck and kitchen. The pool will also get good use during the summer! I will attach photos when we get there.
Today will be spent wrapping up loose ends, making some last minute purchases, and going by the house one last time. We will be in the air tomorrow afternoon. Maybe we'll see fireworks from the plane! Happy 4th of July to our fellow Americans!