Crazy Month

We have had a busy May this year. First, my in-laws (who we were living with) miraculously sold their house and closed the end of April. We were scrambling for a place to live, not knowing if we would stay in CDA for a couple of weeks or a few months (it depended on when Adam got a job in Southern Idaho). After learning that no one rents on a month-to-month basis, we realized that we had to rely on the kindness of someone willing to take in a family of three (and having the space to do so). Our prayers were quickly answered, as a couple in our ward opened their home to us. It was such a blessing, and we loved getting to know this incredible couple. We will always remember them and how they lovingly took us in and tolerated a toddler terrorizing their home and cats. :)

Just as we were getting settled, Adam got a job in our target area! The thing is, they wanted him to start 8 days after getting the offer. He found us a place to live (without being able to look inside), we tied up loose ends in CDA, loaded up the U-haul, and moved in. It has been a whirlwind. Amora has struggled with all of the instability and chaos. But we are settling in. Our place is perfect for our needs, we have the freedom to fix things up the way we want them, and we love being on our own again. Although we've been so grateful for all the sacrifices so many have made on our behalf this past year, we love it being just the three of us. Well there will soon be four--we're getting a pet rat tomorrow.

We already miss our old friends in CDA, but we're excited to start this new adventure and make new friends. Thanks to all of you for your love, support, and prayers!

Here are a few pictures from this past month. Amora had to say goodbye to her best friend, Ryan (but not before they had a few laughs).


Amora being super cute in her grandma's hat.


Checking out the horses and chickens at the neighbor's house.


Playing with Daddy.


Picking Daddy's nose--look at how far in her finger is! Silly girl.

Decisions, Decisions

Being a grown-up requires a lot of decision-making. In our five years of marriage, Adam and I have been quite transitory, moving from place to place and gleaning knowledge and experience from each of those places. We have been blessed in every aspect of our lives and are so grateful. Soon, we will move on to the next chapter of our lives in Boise.

When Adam left his master’s program over a year ago, we were unsure of what career would be a good fit for him. My husband if very smart and very talented, so we knew something would be right. We just didn’t know what. I then lost my job teaching in Alabama. With no ties in Alabama, we headed back west to be closer to family. We agonized over what to do with our future and decided Adam would go into electrical engineering. As an engineer, Adam would adequately provide for our family and utilize his math brain. We never felt great about this choice but pursued it anyway so we would have a goal to strive for.

A couple of weeks ago we were distraught. We were at a very important fork in the road discussing careers and where to put down roots. We discussed a lot of career options and paths to take without any of them feeling great. Then I said, “What about a statistician?” I am confident Heavenly Father put this word in my mouth, as I have never said nor thought this before. We paused and were suddenly overcome with peace and assurance. None of our uncertainties seemed to matter anymore. We found the right path. If you know my husband, this is an absolute perfect fit for him that utilizes all of his unique gifts.

So what does this mean? One year of prerequisites in Boise then a master’s degree in applied statistics that could take us anywhere in the country. It should be about 2 ½ years of school instead of a rigorous three (for engineering). We are so excited! God answers prayers and guides us where we need to be. Sometimes He lets us agonize over things and feel chaotic and scared so that we recognize the contrast of peace when it comes.

So there you have it. Another new adventure for the Loumeau family. Oh yeah, and Amora is still the star of the show.