Empty house.

We came to Seattle from Maine 6 years ago for 1 job opportunity with 1 toddler and a promise we could move back within 2 years. Since then we have added 2 children, 3 Seattle area addresses and more legos, then I care to share or count. Proven in the very last moments as our kind movers discovered countless lonely primary colored bricks under beds, couches, and area rugs.

We consider ourselves, rather family-less people. We both come from small families, now dotted around the country living rather independent lives. We are "route-less" I tell friends, moving for us easier than most. I could NOT have been more wrong. I don't know if it's all that cold rain - (and don't believe them, it actually rains here all the freakin time) or what, but these Seattle people are some of the finest people you can meet. We have been welcomed into many families and homes for holidays and dinners. Grandmas have hugged our babies, and knitted them blankies. These are the kinds of friends you call in the middle of the night, who take your kids no questions asked. They will clean up their pee, and find their pacifiers. They love them when you can't and there is nothing better than knowing your babies are cared for in just the right way.

And tonight, we said our tearful goodbyes and got our last warm west coast hugs.

It started off as a joke - let's sell the house and move back to Maine. Let's simplify our lives. F*&% the manicured lawns and timed sprinklers. Screw the homeowners association and their rules on trash cans and house colors. Let's teach the kids to sail and to catch fireflies in a real yard in a house with character. You know the kind built before Facebook and wireless routers.

It evolved into today. Our 4 bedroom dream house on a park all but empty. Three small kids tucked in sleeping bags lined up together ready for the adventure ahead.

Tomorrow morning, we will stop at our neighborhood coffee shop for one last $4.00 mocha before hitting the road (and soon after my head against the dashboard I am quite sure) - for Maine. Yes, the real joke is we are driving to Maine with three small children!