Filled with Gratitude!

So often in our lives, Mike and I have been reminded that we are definitely not the ones in charge. During the past few weeks, we have yet again seen the Lord's hand in our lives and have felt such amazing gratitude to our loving Father as He continually guides and blesses our family.

Three weeks ago we rushed to get our house on the market in hopes that we would attract some of the buyers who are trying to take advantage of the tax credit incentives going on right now. As well as trying to sell our house, we have been anxiously looking for a home that will be big enough to fit our family's growing needs. We've had a really hard time trying to find something that will be big enough and still within our budget. Two weeks ago, we stumbled on a spec home in a new community not far from where we live. We instantly fell in love with this house. Because they were going to use it as a model home, then decided to bring in a new line of homes instead, it was built with all the extras, not to mention having a floor plan we love. Both Mike and I got teary eyed when we walked into this home, since it was the first one we had found in a year that would work for our family. We both felt a strong confirmation that this was supposed to be our home. Through the amazing efforts of our Realtor, she was able to negotiate the price of the home down into our price range, making it impossible for us to pass up. So, two weeks ago, we signed a contract on the new home, contingent on the sale of our current home within 30 days. Needless to say, since that time we have felt both excited and very anxious. The inside of the new home is not finished yet, so it has been fun for us to be able to pick all the design elements and colors, but they won't start working on it until our current home goes under contract. Within the past few weeks we've had 10 showings but no offers. As the clock ticked by we grew more anxious each day.
Yesterday, we had a second showing for a young couple who was deciding between our house and one other. All day we waited to hear back, and prayed we'd get an offer. Finally, at 9:00 pm last night, our Realtor called to tell us that we had an offer. I can't even begin to explain the relief and elation Mike and I felt. This afternoon we heard back from the buyers that they had accepted our counter offer and we are now officially under contract!
So, here is a picture of our brand new house! It still needs to be painted on the outside, and as of today they can start working to finish the inside as well. If all goes well, we should close by the end of June.
Finally, our babies will have a room of their own, and the kids will have space to be kids! This house is such a huge blessing for us! We have felt guided to this home and I know the Lord has definitely been watching over us. We have been blessed to come across so many amazing people during this process who helped make this happen. It seems that everywhere we turn, people have been going out of their way to help us. I can't even count the amount of tears I've shed, or the prayers I've offered in gratitude. Thank you to all our family and friends who have helped with our kids and have said so many prayers on our behalf. We could not have done this without you! We are ever grateful for your love, your prayers, and your faith!