Groundbreaking

As we prepared to move back to Page from Texas, we contemplated our options for where we would live. We had been unable to sell our house three years prior, and had started out renting it long-term. We then switched it to a vacation rental which has been a lucrative venture for us while maintaining the integrity of the house. We wanted to keep using it as a business, and hence, we started looking at houses for sale in Page. We quickly realized that the houses in our price range were either too small or too old. There was a good amount to choose from , but nothing that we felt was any nicer or even comparable to the house we already owned, so we started looking at other options.

There were some lots for sale in a subdivision by the golf course that we liked, and an investor was prepared to sell them at a great discount after having held on to them for many years. We told a local realtor we were very interested, and to keep us in the loop. To our chagrin, we learned in a roundabout way that the lots had sold. We didn't know of any other land listings that were even close to our price range. We were very discouraged.

Then, a glimmer of hope. Our very good friend told us of a client that he insures with several lots in the same subdivision. She had approached him months before asking if he wanted to buy them as a bundle at a great discount. They were not currently on the market, but he was willing to get us her information so we could talk to her and see if she would be willing to consider an offer on one lot. After a couple of weeks and a few phone conversations, the owner graciously agreed to sell us a lot at a bargain basement price. She was excited that we wanted to grow our family there!

And so, after several months of choosing plans, getting permits, finding a builder, and securing financing, we are breaking ground on our new home!

Sunday Walk

One of the great things about living in Arizona is the sometimes balmy winter days. We do get our fair share of cold weather and even snow every now and then. But on this January afternoon, the weather was just right for a family hike to Birthday Arch.

New News on the Job Front

So, since we moved back to Arizona from Texas, I have been looking for the right job opportunity. My job in Amarillo was such a great learning experience for me and had taken me in new directions. I have been anxious to further my career. Alas, I knew that my options would be somewhat limited living in a very small town. I turned down multiple teaching job offers. I did the temporary sub gig. I looked into many jobs that had telecommuting possibilities. I made a real effort to get my own consulting business off the ground by networking and presenting out on the reservation. Nothing had quite panned out.

Then some conversations with a good friend of mine led me to look into work at the power plant in Page. I have known countless people over the years that worked there had relatives that worked there, or that wanted to work there. It was somewhat of a mystery to me. I knew there was this big plant outside of town. It makes electricity. It employs lots of people. That was about it.

It just so happened that my bishop was one of the many many people that I know that works there. He also happens to be the head of the training department. After some emails and resume touch-ups and much conversation, I was able to get a job as a contractor working at the Navajo Generating Station as a training analyst. I will be there for one year with hopes to turn this into a permanent job situation!

I have to say, the Lord certainly works in mysterious ways. I already know two of the three people that I will be working with, and of course my boss is a really nice guy! And so, I am off on a new adventure furthering my career. So excited!!