It is almost Christmas! I can't believe how fast the time goes. This will be our second Christmas here in Arizona.
It's interesting how quickly changes happen in our lives and how we adapt to them. We've been here for just about 18 months, and yet, we feel like we've always been here. This is home.
It's been quite a year, not just for us, but for everyone I'm sure. The economy has affected all of us, and we're no different. And even though things are tight all around, we're still so thankful to be living in such a beautiful place.
And, like everyone else, we're looking forward to next year, and are hopeful that things are going to get better. The new facility that the Chapman group has been working on is almost ready and the plan is for Bob and the gang to move over there by February. Almost a year late, but better late than never. We believe that this will bring about positive changes!
Natalie is doing well in school, I can't believe she's in the 7th grade, AND she's now 13. She likes her school and the friends she's made. You know Natalie; she's able to fit in with just about any crowd.
She's also adjusted to her new softball team, The Desert Wolves. It's a great group of girls, and all are very talented. She's still pitching and doing great job of it, although this year she has to work at it to get some time in on the mound. Her team this year has 4 pitchers, a big difference from last year's team where Natalie was the only pitcher.
They finished out their season this weekend, finishing in a tie for 3rd in a local ASA tournament. They've come in 2nd, tied for 3rd a few times and placed 4th and 5th in a couple other tournaments. No first places yet, but there's still the rest of the year since the "season" goes until July!
And I've been working on so much, it's hard to give a "where it all began" starting point on it. I've been working for a graphic designer out here since about May, and because of what I've been learning from her, it's inspired me to chase some dreams of my own.
My biggest goal is to write. It's something I've wanted to do for a very long time; something I felt that moving to Arizona would bring about a lot of inspiration to really make it happen. I've done quite a bit of research, and have found a couple of places where I've submitted articles about all sorts of stuff, from restaurant reviews to editorials. I've had some success in it, and have landed a few freelance jobs out of it.
I'm also developing a virtual assistant service, writing blogs, newsletters and E-Marketing pieces for other businesses. I've contracted with a Realtor and have been handling her E-Marketing and lead generating software helping her build her business. And even though the Housing market is crazy right now, what I'm doing for her is working and she's gaining clients and closing escrows! I also have my own blog, so if you get a chance, check it out.
And of course, we're really getting into the "Green" movement. I've been using my reusable shopping bags for just about a year now, so I'm in the habit as are Bob and Natalie. And we've been careful to unplug just about everything we can and use power strips. The difference it makes is pretty amazing. Our electricity bill – for actual power usage and not "fees" – was $27.00 this past month. The bummer is the fees that go along with our power bills; $50 a month. Still, that's more than half of what it was a year ago. So please – unplug!
We also had to replace our well pump this past week. Living on a shared well has had its challenges. We're lucky in that when things do happen, we are able to split the bill with 3 other families. Unfortunate in that we have to have everyone's opinion and approval to do anything, even necessary repairs and maintenance.
Lenny is recovering nicely and Bob is looking forward to getting back in the saddle soon. Bob too is healed from his hernia surgery and both are anxious to get back to their regular rides.
Ok, I think I've covered everything now. We wish you all a happy holiday season and look forward to hearing from all of you!
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