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Ni Hao Y'all

when east meets south

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it’s ours!

They accepted our offer! Chris and I were both somewhat shocked as we thought there would be a bit of back and forth… but God provided bigger and better than we expected! We were able to get our little house for almost $25,000 less than asking price!

Without further ado, meet our newest abode…

Isn’t it charming? I really am so excited, it’s a bit smaller than our house now, but I really think it’s going to be perfect for us. And with the $ we didn’t have to spend on the house, I’m going to tackle a mini re-do on the outdated kitchen.

It was owned by an older couple who have lived there a while, and as a result, the entire place is covered in floral wallpaper. And border. Gonna be a little while before we’ve got it all fixed up the way we want it… so expect more before and after pictures, just like I shared when we painted and replaced the carpet with hardwood back in September ๐Ÿ™‚

But our new house is a solid little thing, well built and on almost 2 acres of land, right across the street from a pond! And the current owners have just loved the heck out of this house. It just feels good inside… like you expect to smell bacon and pancakes cooking on the stove and see smoke billowing out of the chimney.

We hope to close on it by the 15th of July. In the meantime, between our closing on this house on the 27th and our new house on the 15th, we’ll be homeless… an adventure will be had to be sure.

2 adults. 8 kids. 2 dogs. And a whole lotta stuff. Should be interesting.

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06.17.09 · what works for us 66

Comments

  1. Andrea says

    June 17, 2009 at 10:18 PM

    OH STEPH! It is a HAPPY HOUSE!!

    LOOK AT IT!

    You guys are going to love it there.

    Congrats My Friends!

    xoxo,

    Andrea

    Reply
  2. Lori Lynn says

    June 17, 2009 at 10:31 PM

    Congratulations! It is a very charming and lovely home, and two acres! Wow! I look forward to the many wonderful posts to come from this place.

    Lori

    Reply
  3. Beach Mama says

    June 17, 2009 at 10:36 PM

    Congratulations on your new home! It looks so inviting! Just add kids!

    Reply
  4. Lori says

    June 17, 2009 at 10:59 PM

    Oh I just LOVE it!! Congratulations!

    Reply
  5. adoptionroad says

    June 17, 2009 at 11:02 PM

    As a woman I'm supposed to say it looks beautiful which it does, but my kid in me think that place looks really fun too! Your housing updates are welcome since I don't have access to my favorite home and garden shows anymore.

    Reply
  6. Shannon R (Room for More) says

    June 17, 2009 at 11:08 PM

    LOVE the house! perfect! We love our 2 acres. WEll maybe not right now when it is over 100 degrees, but usually! I look forward to hearing all about the crazy moving details! Praying!
    Shannon

    p.s. my word verification is "blessi" I guess short for blessing? Perfect for your post today!!

    Reply
  7. carolinagirl says

    June 17, 2009 at 11:27 PM

    Congrats!!! Love the house! You can tell she's got lots of character!!! Can't wait to see before and after photos!

    Reply
  8. Marmee says

    June 17, 2009 at 11:37 PM

    Love the new house!! Congratulations!!

    Reply
  9. Tish says

    June 18, 2009 at 12:01 AM

    praise GOd! that is one CUUUUUTE house! i am so excited for you and this great adventure you are on! can't wait to hear and see more!

    Reply
  10. Amanda says

    June 18, 2009 at 12:11 AM

    Yay! I love that house. Looks like there is plenty of room to play. Get it all fixed up before the Army moves you again.
    I think next time we move, I am going to pack in tupperware instead of suitcases.

    Reply
  11. anne and mike says

    June 18, 2009 at 12:47 AM

    What an adorable home! It looks so sweet. Sounds like you will be so very busy the next several weeks, at least you might get your mind off the wait for little Viv for a bit!
    Anne

    Reply
  12. Mamma to 5 says

    June 18, 2009 at 12:55 AM

    WHat a lovely house and 2 acres?!?! Wow, nice.
    Congratualtions!!

    Reply
  13. DiJo says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:09 AM

    Charming and TWO ACRES!!!!!! I would say it is PERFECT! I am so happy for you! What a blessing! You are so right! God is the best house hunter, realtor, and closer on the planet!

    I wish you a multitude of blessings on this next adventure!

    Hugs,
    Diana

    Reply
  14. Stacy says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:10 AM

    What a great house! 2 acres sounds great for 9 kids and 2 dogs! Congratulations!!

    Stacy

    Reply
  15. Coeyok says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:20 AM

    Hi Stephanie!

    So where in the Northeast are you moving? Are you coming to New England? We live in MA on the NH border. This house definitely looks like it would fit right in in NE!!

    If so, welcome to our neck of the woods!

    Colleen

    Reply
  16. Lost and Found says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:21 AM

    Mazel Tov and congrats. So where in the NE are you headed?

    Reply
  17. Donna says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:23 AM

    Wow! "Charming" is in understatement! It's gorgeous!!

    Looks like there's plenty of room for company too (hint hint).

    ๐Ÿ™‚

    Donna
    Our blog: Double Happiness!

    Reply
  18. Karen says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:24 AM

    Wow, what a beautiful home. With a large family, I have decided that the outside space is just as important, if not more, than the inside. Oh how I wish we had 2 acres. In our next house….:-) Anyway, Congratulations! I'm intrigued, can you give us an idea of where in the northeast you're moving? The DC area maybe?

    Reply
  19. Patricia/NYC says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:40 AM

    It looks like a DREAM!!!! Sooooo glad it all worked out!!

    Wow…2 acres! This NY'er can't even imagine that amount of space!! lol!!

    Sounds PERFECT for you all!!
    CONGRATULATIONS!!!

    Reply
  20. Wendy says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:49 AM

    WooHooo! Congratulations. It's a beautiful and very charming home. I'm so happy for you that it all worked out. Can't wait to hear more about the big move! Maybe I can come up and strip some wallpaper with you!

    To Colleen who posted…I'm in MA near the NH border, too. What town are you in???

    Reply
  21. Jenn says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:49 AM

    It looks DREAMY!! ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  22. sara says

    June 18, 2009 at 2:10 AM

    Oh, Yeah! It is beautiful!! It IS a great market to buy!! We just bought too – no counter offer, for $45,000 less than original asking price!! Woo-Hoo!!

    We left Colorado on the 29th of May, supposed to close on the 9th of June. What is it? Almost the 18th? We are living it up at the Comfort Suites!

    We are only 2 adults. 3 kids. 1 dog. I need to up my prayer life, I am sure.

    However, I have learned that I actually CAN swim. Huh.

    Maybe it WAS always the SUIT I was afraid of?

    GOOD LUCK!!! It is truly an adventure and God is SO MUCH bigger than all the crap!

    Reply
  23. Mandi says

    June 18, 2009 at 2:19 AM

    Congrats! What a cute house. I love it! However, I wouldn't call it small, it looks quite large in the picture. Do you mind sharing what state you are moving to???

    Mandi

    Reply
  24. living4him5 says

    June 18, 2009 at 2:42 AM

    Praise God! It's beautiful!!!

    Hugs,
    Amy

    Reply
  25. Annie says

    June 18, 2009 at 3:14 AM

    Congrats on your new digs!!!!

    Ann (Lizzie's Momma)

    Reply
  26. trina says

    June 18, 2009 at 3:21 AM

    It sounds so charming. I have no doubt that you will take care of that wallpaper in no time. Can't wait to see the before and after pics. Then you can help me with some projects. ๐Ÿ™‚

    Reply
  27. Branda says

    June 18, 2009 at 3:35 AM

    YEAHH congratulations!!!

    Reply
  28. Denise says

    June 18, 2009 at 4:17 AM

    Congrats!
    It looks like a very charming house, and I know it won't be long before you put your beautiful decorative touch on it. Can't wait to see the after pictures (Chris emailed us today, so we've seen the before).
    And I know it's the opposite direction, but y'all are always welcome in Texas – all of you.
    Love to all,
    Denise & Brian

    Reply
  29. TanyaLea says

    June 18, 2009 at 4:49 AM

    CHARMING is EXACTLY what came to my mind the moment I seen the photo… I LOVE IT!! It looks so peaceful and serene… a PERFECT family home! I can already imagine a lot of Bakerella recipes baking in the oven and filling the air with yummy aromas!

    Congratulations! God is SO GOOD!!!

    Hugs,
    Tanya

    Reply
  30. bbmomof2boys says

    June 18, 2009 at 11:20 AM

    Love the house – congrats! The kids will love the 2 acres and I see lots of exploring over at the pond.

    So…we know that you sold your old house, bought a new house, when the closing dates are and that you will be in the NE…BUT we would all love some more details!! You just LOVE to drive us crazy don't you??!! ๐Ÿ™‚

    Hugs,
    Carla

    Reply
  31. Debby says

    June 18, 2009 at 11:49 AM

    The house looks wonderful!!!

    One year when the military moved our family, we went from June to Aug without a house. My parents were big campers though, so we just parked our camper at (the new location) local RV park & stayed there until they found & closed on a house.

    The Comfort Suites (or Inn) also has longer stay rates available & little kitchenettes. You might also find a vacation rental in the general area that would be furnished & more homey feeling. Many of those allow animals.

    Good luck. I'm sure that part could be stressful until you figure it out.

    Reply
  32. Cynthia says

    June 18, 2009 at 11:49 AM

    Awesome!!! I absolutely love the house!!!

    Reply
  33. Ashley says

    June 18, 2009 at 12:18 PM

    Congrats on the new home! I will be praying that all goes smoothly – especially the time in between the two home for you little family:)

    Blessings, Ashley

    Reply
  34. Joe and Jane says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:40 PM

    Beautiful house! Lovely piece of property too!

    And happy camping in the time between! ๐Ÿ˜‰

    Reply
  35. Sarah says

    June 18, 2009 at 1:54 PM

    That's great news!

    Reply
  36. Robin says

    June 18, 2009 at 2:39 PM

    It looks so charming and homey! Can't wait to see more pictures!!

    Blessings in the days ahead,
    Robin

    Reply
  37. HLC says

    June 18, 2009 at 2:39 PM

    oh it looks perfect! and two acres sounds like such a dream. best of luck during the move and homeless phase.

    Reply
  38. Mom Of Many says

    June 18, 2009 at 3:44 PM

    Oh Stefanie!!

    I am so very thrilled for you. It looks like just the type of house that Dw and I would be drawn too. I love white and I love the cape cod look w/the dormers…so very charming and sweet! And as far as homeless…praying for a place in the interim…..and if a trip is in order, swing by our place…we would have a blast!! xo

    Reply
  39. Meg says

    June 18, 2009 at 4:27 PM

    I love the house! I live in CT, so it looks like what I would like. And 2 acres? That's wonderful! Enjoy it!

    Reply
  40. Norah says

    June 18, 2009 at 5:09 PM

    You said it perfect. Charming. I love it! I am so glad they accepted your offer. Congrats to you and your family!

    Reply
  41. Jenna says

    June 18, 2009 at 5:24 PM

    That house SCREAMS New England charm- maybe why I love it!!! 2 acres??? That's fantastic. Congratulations! Praying your move goes well!!! Hope you ended up loving the north!

    Reply
  42. Carrie says

    June 18, 2009 at 6:25 PM

    Congrats-it looks Fab!

    Reply
  43. Jill says

    June 18, 2009 at 7:23 PM

    Oh, it IS charming!
    It will be a place of many happy memories!!

    Reply
  44. Colleen says

    June 18, 2009 at 7:27 PM

    Hi Wendy-

    Can you email me personally? I think we may have gone through the same agency!

    coeyok@yahoo.com

    Reply
  45. Nicole says

    June 18, 2009 at 7:40 PM

    YEAH!!! CONGRATS!!!

    Reply
  46. Nicole A. says

    June 18, 2009 at 9:06 PM

    Congrats!! Now you can relax … and then pack, pack, pack!

    The house is so, so cute and charming, a perfect family home… very, very New England, too! And having 2 acres is awesome. Your kids will love to explore that!

    As for the wallpaper (I have had to take down way more than my share, thankyouverymuch!), I have found that a vinegar & water mix works just as well as Diff, and costs alot less, with less residue, too!

    Congrats again! So happy for you!

    All the best,
    Nicole A. in OH

    Reply
  47. Terynn says

    June 18, 2009 at 10:56 PM

    Congratulations!!! It is a lovely, wonderful, home-y home!

    Reply
  48. ellie says

    June 19, 2009 at 12:07 AM

    What a darling house ๐Ÿ™‚ We are moving in the next year and you give me hope of finding a house that is just right for our family!

    Congratulations!!

    Reply
  49. Deanna says

    June 19, 2009 at 12:36 AM

    Where in the NorthEast? Us New Englanders want to know! It's beautiful!

    Reply
  50. a Tonggu Momma says

    June 19, 2009 at 12:42 AM

    Wanna live at our house for awhile? You know Hotel Tonggu is ALWAYS open. Let me just mention it to the husband…

    Reply
  51. Jean says

    June 19, 2009 at 2:34 AM

    I love it!! It s so charming!! I am excited to see the before and after picks as you make this "your" home!!

    Congratulations!
    Blessings from MN,
    Jean

    Reply
  52. The Ferrill's says

    June 19, 2009 at 4:58 AM

    I love it love it love it! It looks like it will fit your family perfectly and plenty of room for running around outside! All those youngins will be fishin' the days away at the pond! FUN!
    Praying for a smooth transition!

    Reply
  53. One Happy Momma says

    June 19, 2009 at 4:25 PM

    Congratulations on the beautiful new house, about to become a home, your beautiful home!

    While you're moving in, we'll be in China bringing our son home, finally!

    Blessings and Hugs –

    Cathy

    Reply
  54. Sarah says

    June 19, 2009 at 6:24 PM

    Congrats! It looks like a beautiful house!

    Reply
  55. Miss Anna B says

    June 19, 2009 at 6:42 PM

    Stef,

    Good heavens. I fall out of internet land for a little while and when I am finally able to resurface…..you are moving (WHERE? are you going) and Kris has a referral. That'll teach me never to leave again ๐Ÿ™‚

    Congratulations. Can I come help you move?

    Hugs,
    Anna

    Reply
  56. Sue says

    June 20, 2009 at 5:13 AM

    That driveway is meant for kids! Your new home is adorable. Congrats!

    Reply
  57. hootsmom says

    June 20, 2009 at 10:12 PM

    It just oothes HOME!! Love it. It feels like my folks home in Indiana. Say a prayer for us. We had our first ever home study today.It was the first of 4 visits. we're just rookies compared to you guys. Becuase of No Hands But Ours, we prayed for God to open our hearts to SN. we have a long road to travel, but in God's time, not ours. Love the house!

    Reply
  58. amy says

    June 21, 2009 at 12:54 AM

    Its just beautiful!!

    Reply
  59. Kudo says

    June 21, 2009 at 1:18 AM

    I am in the same boat if the offer I have in is not accepted soon we too will be homeless. Happy packing I don't know where to start. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  60. JD says

    June 21, 2009 at 3:04 AM

    Gorgeous new home!! It looks so cozy, warm, inviting and so perfect for raising a family.

    Congrats!!!!!!!!!

    Reply
  61. Mommy says

    June 21, 2009 at 6:24 PM

    Hooray! Can't wait to hear and see more about it.

    Reply
  62. Colleen says

    June 22, 2009 at 2:15 AM

    It's beautiful!!!!! Congrats!!!!!

    Reply
  63. Dita says

    June 23, 2009 at 1:58 AM

    Yippee yai ai caiee….sounds FANTABULOUS!

    Sure does look like the North East if ever I saw it…..

    are you ever going to tell us which State? You'd be great if you were ever in the witness protection program, you mysterious woman, you!

    Congratulations, Kid!

    Reply
  64. GypsyBiscuit - Sheila says

    June 23, 2009 at 3:09 AM

    I too purchased a house from older folks and was confronted with wallpaper in every room. Can we say 4 different floral papers in varying depths of country blue just in the master bedroom?! Soon you will be chanting my mantra: "A pox on the entire wallpaper industry and to those poor souls who've been sucked into the trap!"

    Congratulations! ๐Ÿ˜‰

    Reply
  65. bytheriver says

    June 26, 2009 at 12:41 PM

    Its Beautiful! Looks Huge to me and two acres! WOW! Yippee Yahoo!

    Reply
  66. Heather says

    July 2, 2009 at 4:22 AM

    Oh yes, that home says, come on in, have a glass of lemonade and sit a spell! I LOVE IT!!!

    Okay, so I gotta ask…how far northeast are we talkin' here???

    You have been so heavy on my heart everytime I pray…guess this was it! Moving! Praying for you over the next few weeks as you do the adventure thing!

    Be blessed!
    Heather

    Reply

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I'm Stefanie. Wife to one, mom to 13. Occasional blogger and t-shirt maker. Wannabe photographer and exerciser. Constant grace-needer and orphan advocator. more
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