Back To The Simple Way Of Life

It has been six months since we left the fast pace life of California. Looking back it was the best decision we have made, not saying we regret ever living in California. We love the people we met there (well most of the people), we loved being so close to the beach, Disneyland, Sea World, (and all the other attractions that fall into this same category) we loved snowboarding at Mt. High, and the northern coastline, it seemed like there was always something to do anytime of day.
One reason we are glad we moved to California is what we learned about ourselves. We learned that no matter where we go we will continue to seek the Lord's help in our day to day lives. We learned that missionary work is best done when you are looking at it with Christ-like love. We met some of the most amazing people by looking at their hearts rather than what they appear on the outside. The best way to get over depression is by doing service. Once you are helping other people you forget your problems and this might sound rude but you may realize your problems aren't as bad as you think.  I must admit not all of what we learned about ourselves was good but it helped us improve the areas where we lacked and tried to improve them.
I think one major thing I learned is how being around people that are unhappy and are doing bad things really can bring you down. I consider myself a naturally happy person. When we moved to the HD people would comment on how happy we are and how we are always smiling, they would add soon after, "You haven't lived here long enough. You will change." I remember telling my husband, " I'm not going to change." And at first I didn't, I smiled everywhere I went and tried to be as happy as I could be fast forward 4 years later and I had changed! I hardly smiled, I didn't want to be around people (even my friends), I didn't care to go anywhere, I hated where I lived, I just wanted out!! I couldn't get out of this "funk".  I knew it was time for our family to move. The surroundings had changed who I was and I didn't like it. I realized this is not where I want my kids growing up! I want my kids to be able to ride their bikes around, to be able to play outside without me having to worry constantly about them. I wanted my kids to be able to go to good schools that would challenge them. I wanted to be able to go to the store without being afraid. I wanted my kids to have a childhood similar to what I had.
So after much prayer and thought my husband and I decided what we really wanted was a simpler way of life. So after much searching and prayer

we left the greatest friends anyone could find and headed on to our next journey as a family.
Before we even made it to Tennessee we could already see the difference. We had people, complete strangers, helping us find a place to live. We arrived to Tennessee without a place to live and within a day found a small but cozy place to live. We went from having the landlord from Hell (pardon my language but true) to having the nicest landlord who just wanted us to be happy.

Our kids were so excited to get their bikes and start riding them around in a quiet safe neighborhood. They can actually ride their bikes around the block by themselves. We no longer have "ghetto birds" cicling around night and day! The kids were also so excited for a mailbox in front of our house. They thought it was so funny! Things you don't think about but realize they haven't had before. They comment a lot that it reminds them of where grandma and grandpa live.

 Davin discovered his true country boy side and can't wait to go hunting and fishing. He loves wearing his hunting camo and fits right in here when he does. Not my favorite thing he wears but if it makes him happy. He can't wait to get a bigger yard where he can practice with his arrows and slingshot and whatever else he has.











We found a ward that is so sweet and truly care about each other! The kids love the kids in the ward and Davin actually doesn't complain about going to church every Sunday! They are helping us adjust to a simpler way of life and really are there for us if we need them. If you know our family at all you know that we NEVER ask for help! Well when we moved here we had to actually ask for help several times! I know we went through those things just to humble ourselves and let others have the opportunity to serve. As we are trying to find a house to buy here our kids request is that we stay in the ward!



Our goal for the next year is for our family to return back to a simpler way of life. That includes a humble home with at least and acre of land, garden, chickens (my life long dream), and maybe a few other farm animals. We are so excited to begin our new journey here in Tennessee and are excited to share it with you all.