Our Phoenix adventure has started!

Hi Everyone!

Here is the a little update as our new life has begun in Phoenix. As I am writing this, it is bright and sunny outside, likely pushing between 110-115 degrees (I'm not brave enough to step outside and know for sure, haha). Though living in a place where the heat is this intense, was never what I imagined for my life, God (and my husband, haha) are clearly changing my perspective. Those who know me well, know that coming into this move, the heat was the thing up front that I was most worried about. I am happy to say that somehow it has been completely managable. You just learn to have a different summer lifestyle than most other places. We stay inside during the summer, while everyone stays inside in the winter.

Layla doesn't seem to have any problem being outside either. She has very much enjoyed the pool, and playing in her, oh so cute "floaty" that Bobby got for her. She is quite the trooper, figuring out very quickly where things are and already sleeping 10-12 hours a night in her new room. I am grateful for a smooth transition for her. Something in the last two weeks has clicked for her. She is putting the phone up to her ear, she is putting plugs in the outlet (that's really fun), and trying to put the caps on water bottles. Along with saying "mama" and "dada" she is saying "more" and knows what her bottle is when you offer it to her. It's so amazing to watch her make these connections and start to understand the world around her. I am so proud of her and love her more than I could ever imagine loving someone. She is my delight in this crazy time!

Bobby is happy to be back in his hometown, where things are familiar to him, and is loving his job. He has been working long hours, but seems to enjoy the time he is spending there and is providing well for our family. I am beyond thankful for a hard working husband.

We have been blessed with a beautiful apartment, and are so grateful that it's in an area we love, where we feel safe and taken care of. There is a new shopping center right by our place; stores of every kind in walking distance to us. You won't see me walking Layla around much this summer, but come fall, it will be a great place for us take an outting :)

We are currently in the market for a new church and will be trying one out this Sunday. Our prayer is to find one that is a great place for Layla (and future baby Cadriels) to grow up and make meaningful relationships, and also where Bobby and I, as a couple and individuals, can grow. We are excited about meeting new people and starting fresh as a family.

I don't have a job yet, so I am enjoying every moment I have with little Layla. I'm working hard to find one, and hopefully will have some answers soon. Until then, I will take in this precious time with Layla.

I think that wraps it up for now! Overall, the Cadriel's are doing wonderful. Thank you for your love and support. Though it was and still is hard to be away from my home, your constant encouragement is keeping me going, so thank you!

Until next time! God Bless!

Love,
Bobby, Jess, and Layla