It’s been two months since my last blog post. In a nutshell, life has been hectic. Many of you who follow along are aware that we faced a challenging move as a family. With limited time and an overwhelming amount to move, our options seemed nonexistent. I’m profoundly grateful to those who provided resources and assistance. Your support was both touching and invaluable during our time of stress and uncertainty. Special thanks go to my incredible wife, Brittney, who explored every possible solution, either to retain our old home or to find a new suitable one.

Throughout July, our future seemed uncertain. Feelings of anxiety and fear were constant companions. However, near the month’s end, we discovered a home in Camas, a quaint townhome close to the paper mill. After applying, the wait was torturous. The fear of another rejection after so many hung heavy. But then, our application was accepted.

In the second week of August, we embarked on our move. Ironically, not on a convenient Friday but smack in the week’s middle. I rented a behemoth twenty-six-foot truck, facing what felt like the most challenging game of Tetris. With Britt handling the packing and Odin, my eldest, assisting with heavy lifting, we made headway before the sweltering heat intensified. Driving that truck was a task in itself, especially when it came to parking for unloading. Just as we started, Jon, a dear friend, appeared. He didn’t wait for an invitation but insisted on aiding us. After sharing our address, he committed to the laborious process of unloading, even in the blistering heat. Jon Wallace, you are truly a gem.

Multiple trips were necessary to transport everything. Due to budget constraints, I had the truck for just a day. The subsequent trips involved smaller loads. We received immense help from friends and family like Chris (my brother-in-law), another Chris with his trailer and van, Stephanie, Kayla, Kelsie, Daniel, Matt, Marich, Mack, Kyle, and not forgetting Jon and Kelbie, his partner. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stood by us.

The moving process, accompanied by the financial strains of renting, unexpected fees, minor damages to the new place, cleaning the old house, handling bills for two residences, and other unforeseen expenses, was a test of endurance. For the past three weeks, we’ve been navigating a maze of cardboard boxes, placing items, and arranging furniture. Although we’re not completely settled, our new place already feels like home.

I’ve grown fond of our new space. My initial concern was its size, with Britt convinced most of our belongings would end up in storage. However, despite the kids’ initial reservations about their smaller rooms, they seem to like them. The high ceilings on the main floor are a highlight, and the garage meets my needs. Thor has made a bunch of friends already, while Tyr has established his domain, mainly around his PC. Odin is out and about, exploring on his bike and new truck, having acquired his driver’s license just in time for the move. Ostara has comfortably adjusted to her room. While there’s an underlying sense of what was lost, the gains are undeniable, and we are content with the outcome.

Our neighborhood is charming. Several fellow nerds have introduced themselves, and Britt and I are forging new friendships. I’m optimistic that Tyr and the other kids will do the same. Our neighbor, John, seems fantastic—reasonable, smart, and a fellow geek enthusiast. A recent chat revealed shared interests, and I’m excited about future interactions.

As life gradually returns to normalcy, I eagerly anticipate diving back into my hobbies and projects. Britt has resumed her craftwork, and my garage, now organized, beckons for some D&D painting sessions. I also hope to establish a recording corner for potential audiobook narrations. With so much to anticipate, we’re grateful to have weathered the storm unharmed. The Fontyn family might lack an official motto, but I’ve adopted one: “Never fear, Persevere.” It’s the ethos I hope to instill in my children.

To everyone who lent a hand or shared words of encouragement, thank you. Your unwavering support underscored the fact that we are surrounded by wonderful people.