So, yes, this whole blogging thing has really slipped way off the radar. A lot of things have slipped, actually, and I’m really trying to get a handle around things again so that life can feel a little more in control and fulfilling. Ah, yes, things. Lots of things.

Ahem. Anyways.

We signed the papers on Friday without mishap, and the loan is on target for funding on Friday. So, come Friday we should be the proud owners of 9.8 acres of land in Nevada County. Woo hoo! Then the real fun begins. :-) We think we figured out where the house and driveway will go, and the future workshop too. (anyone want to take bets on how long it takes to get that built??) It looks like we’ll be having someone come and put in the driveway, building pad, and trench for the water and electrical sometime in December or January. Matt talked about our plans at length with Craig (realtor’s husband, long-time local contractor, all-around great, friendly, and knowledgeable guy) and he thought we were doing a good job and gave Matt lots of useful information.

I spent the weekend with a delightful case of laryngitis, which was a rather thought provoking experience. I was hoarse and deep voiced on Friday, then spent until Monday night speaking only in a whisper. I can talk reasonably well at this point, although it does hurt a bit and my voice still doesn’t sound right. I’m hoping I didn’t stress it too much today and it’ll be better tomorrow. Being effectively voiceless was an interesting experience. It was very difficult to participate in conversations, and nearly impossible to get someone’s attention without being right in front of them. It felt akin to living in a country where you don’t speak the language well, but you understand it perfectly. There were times when people misunderstood me, but it either was impossible or just simply not worth the effort to try and make myself understood. It made me focus on saying only what really was necessary, and interjecting only when required. This was frustrating at first, as I kept thinking “oh, I could say that! I could say this!” but eventually I just settled down and started to listen more. The most difficult aspect was not being able to read to Emma. I had never really thought about just how important that is to us. There were some funny moments with it though - I think my favorite was at church on Sunday when the choir started up with “How Can I Keep from Singing”.

Alright, time to go to bed. I really want to get up before Emma does tomorrow morning!