Build it and they will come...

E and I LOVE our families. Despite moving across the country from them, we actually wish we were close (just not in Kansas ;) Staying with my parents each year feels like the way things "should" be. The Grands there to help with the kids, giving them a wider base to rely on than just E and I. Raising kids, isolated from family, it kinda sucks.

So we were sooo pleased with ourselves, luring family to NYC, living somewhere we loved with those we loved nearby. It had been an empty haul there, after we had P. For anyone that has ever moved to a city with kids but without any friends or family, the difference is palpable. If something goes wrong, you are On Your Own. We've done it a few times now, and space feels so expansive, its a strange emotional shift I can't really explain. When family comes to town - bam - space contracts and feels snugly :)

So we've had another year of feeling the isolation. Fortunately, Portland is Friendly. And homeschoolers here are welcoming. And we have had something to pin our hopes and dreams on... luring family West :)

And it worked. We didn't have to do too much, Portland sells itself. (Tired of me singing west coast praises? Sorry! But this city, it seriously Rocks:).

So, tomorrow, or perhaps the day after, Uncle Seth and Aunt Alicia will arrive. To Stay. I've skipped chattering about it here because it means so much to my little family that I just didn't want to jinx it.

And part of me couldn't believe it would really happen. From our first (and only;) visit to Oregon, we just Knew it would be the most perfect place for E and the boys. City, mountains. climbing, hiking, snowboarding, those beaches, the people, the prices.... A damn good fit. We idly dreamed about getting family here. Raising our kids with cousins. Lots of little feet enjoying these green back yards. But it was almost too much to hope for. And now, pinch me, its really happening :)

Right down to the commune like setting we'd always dreamed of ;). This crazy duplex will be a house full of family by the end of the week, and even (eek!!!) a little full-er of family by the end of October :))). Yup, Seth and Alicia are bringing a baby-to-be West with them and I can't wait to meet him/her when Alicia pops this fall!!!

So much joy, its silly :). P, excited for his park day today, park day tomorrow, Aunt and Uncle the next and (one more!) park day after that, was jumping (literally) for joy tonight, saying it is the Best Week Ever. I agree :). Now if only I could get our parents to consider residence out West... ;)

Picture: Zia exploring Seth and Alicia's house. It was in Bad shape (f.i.l.t.h.y gross) when we bought it and Z hadn't ever been able to get down in that space and run around. She was pleased as punch this week when I went down to do a little work and lowered her to the floor. She and P then ran around Shrieking, breaking the place (and the sound barrier) in.