Real Estate Magnates

Been looking for a house to buy that we can rent to the kids. All insanity aside, we really feel like this could be a good long term investment for us, and help the kids get on their feet again. I mean, as long as they are paying somebody rent, why not us?
So today we found a cute little house in Black Diamond, not too far away from us. It's in a small development where we had considered buying when they were new construction, several years ago. It's a small neighborhood of what I call matchstick houses - they are built townhouse style, but are individual homes. There are sidewalks winding between the cozy (ok, small) yards, and everyone gets a garage plus parking. When they were first being built, we could see that they were set up perfectly for a young family, and this one has three bedrooms with a bath and a half.
What set this one apart from the dozens we have looked at in the last several months is the price, condition and location. It's an amazing deal, even though it is a short sale. The price was already approved by the bank, so we're pretty sure that the offer will be approved. Then it's just a few weeks of cleaning, etc. and they can move in.
We'll sweep what happens!

Progress?

Ok, so it's been over a week and not much progress. I've lost a total of one pound, and reduced my waist zilch. I guess it's going to take more commitment to really see some changes. Although last night's jambalaya was delicious, I should have stopped at one serving!
I'm finding the hardest part is to let go of those high glycemic carbs... Grains, potatoes, etc. Scott is finally willing to go along with the program starting in October. Maybe together we can triumph!

Diet?

Well, I've decided to try a new diet plan, but not totally commit to it. Is that cheating? My friend and encourager says that it's the effort that counts, and committing to changing habits. So far all I have been able to accomplish is to reduce my carb intake a little. I'm supposed to be replacing grains with greens. Sounds catchy, but I do love my grains!

So far I have lost zero pounds and zero inches off my waist. Stay tuned!

Time to get writing again...

Yes, after a hiatus of over a year, it's time to get back to my writing. (And just as a follow-on, 2012 was a better year than 2011.) I know there aren't many folks out there following my blog, but so what! Thanks to you who do, and if you find anything interesting, feel free to share.

Yes, 2011 was a horribly difficult year for the Sherer family. With the passing of first Walt, then Darlene, then the cancer diagnosis for Scott, we had the triple whammy. Truly though, the year was filled with blessings. We were able to spend lots of time with Scott's folks, Walt and Darlene, while Darlene struggled with her cancer. The kids and Grandkids all got to know them better and spend time feeling more connected to the family's elders. Walt's dementia turned him into a kind, gentle old grandpa, and the little ones just loved cuddling with him. The day he died, it was swift and without warning, a brief hour of suffering before the Lord welcomed him home. It will always stick in my mind how tenderly Darlene took leave of him in the hospital, after all the years of violent temper and abuse she suffered through. Such a testament to the enduring power of love and true commitment to her spouse, and the Grace that God bestows on those He loves.

 Once Walt was gone, the desire to fight the cancer left too, and Darlene asked that the painful treatments stop. Forty days later, she joined him in death as she was truly joined to him in life. But before that, all of her siblings came to visit and share memories.  One of the hardest things was to watch Darlene's family give her permission to give up the fight. Shortly after the funeral, we learned that grandchild #6 was on the way! Discovering Scott's cancerous thyroid lump while on vacation and the amazingly fast diagnosis, surgery and treatment seems like a whirlwind of emotions, looking back. Could have been so much worse - we know many people who have had long, drawn out treatments. Praise God this was over quickly, and the threat of recurrence is teeny. Another blessing - understanding employers who gave us the time we needed to take care of family and each other. 

A little more catching up:
As I mentioned, grandchild #6, little Isys, joined the family in March 2012, bringing the count to 5 granddaughters and 1 grandson. Looks like Griffin will have to hold out a little longer for a boy cousin!

Storm, another rescue kitty, joined the family in 2012. The shelter had named her Farrah, for some reason... She was a dainty little fluff ball with amazing markings. We couldn't resist her charming smile. Storm is a fluffy ball of energy, skittish even now, but a real cuddler once she is comfortable. I call her Stormcloud Gingerpants, for short. Scott calls her Runaway, which seems to suit.

Gypsy took to mothering her right away, and the two of them love to scamper about the house raising all kinds of havoc. When they run down the upstairs hallway, it sounds like a herd of stampeding buffalo. Not sure how two little kitties can make so much noise, but obviously, it is exhausting for them - I am frequently "Catatonic" in my recliner...

So I have decided to spend less time playing meaningless games on Facebook (maybe...) and more time writing - I once had a teacher tell me never to stop writing. Thanks to all the encouragers in my life, and to God who has been so generous and kind.
Check back later!