First couple of days

Once all the big moving was done and we had the essentials unpacked, we ran out of propane—the only source of heat for this house.  Goodness, what a trial of faith for me that was, I am ashamed to admit.  Ever since we signed for this house, we have been hearing about the snow we will get up here.  By law there must be two sources of heat, but this house has only the one, and it depends on propane and electricity—resources that become increasingly unreliable in the winter months. 

Our third day in the house and we lose heat!  I panicked.  We were hearing how guys were transferring out of this town successfully, even after we had been told it couldn’t be done until 2014.  We were worried about keeping the pipes from bursting with how cold it was (the temp fell to 1 degree Fahrenheit that night.)  The money required to keep propane in the tank looks like it will be more than we estimated and rumor is that overtime is going to dry up.  It all came down to being overwhelmed with the idea that we had made a horrible mistake.  What were we thinking?  What are we going to do?  Should we beg out of the lease?  Eat the penalty fees?  We just didn’t know and we were so darn cold that we couldn’t really think straight.

My husband ran for another load from the house and dinner while I sat on the bed and cried.  The kids came to me and asked what was wrong.  I said I was cold and worried we may not do well in the house.  Both responded with faith in Jesus to see us through and immediate prayer.  How humbling is that?!  I splashed water on my face and tried to keep busy—and warm—by unpacking some more.

Next day we got out of the house, which really cleared our heads.  We ran errands, hit the Dollar Tree store to get some stockings and stuffers and ate at a deli owned by a friend.  Another friend called and gave me great comfort.  The food, activity and warmth did much to raise our spirits. 

We came home, cleared the garage for the van and finally the propane was delivered.  Heat!  Hallelujah!