Here We Go Again...Delta State Edition

So, here we are.  Yes, I realize I haven't blogged in months.  Yes, I realize my header still says "Summer 2011."  Yes, I realize the last post wasn't even pictures of my children.  I will preface this by saying that this post also does not contain any pictures of my children. I will ardently try to get that done soon.  However, I am compelled to write this post to let you all in on our life's journey...

On the last weekend of 2011/first weekend of 2012, Chad was offered (and accepted) a coaching position at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi.  Now, this wasn't a total shock.  We knew that Jamey, the head coach at NGU, was interviewing for the head coaching position.  We also knew that he would probably want to bring Chad along for the ride.  Prior knowledge, however, does not change the emotional roller coaster that you jump on when you find out your husband is MOVING TO MISSISSIPPI on TUESDAY.  That's right folks!  Welcome to the life of a coach's wife!  The irony of all this is that DSU is the team that knocked us out of the playoffs this season...

So, the band-aid has been ripped off.  Elvis has left the building.  Now, I am left (alone) with the unknowns...Where will we live?  When will we leave?  Where will I work?  Where will the kids go to school?  The list is, seemingly, endless and incredibly overwhelming.

Like I said, this is crazy-overwhelming, so, for the sake of my sanity, I have decided to focus on the long list of positives.  Yes, there actually are a LOT of positives to moving so far (10 HOURS) away!  Do you want to hear them?

1.  We will start with our new mascot...We have graduated from being the NGU Crusaders to being the...

Bahahaha!  It's almost too good to be true!  Truth be told, they are the Delta State Statesmen...at some point in time the students started this funny tradition and it stuck.  Apparently, the old-timers aren't too pleased.  To quote my fabulous sister:  "This is not just hilarious, it's contraversial...which brings it right back to being HILARIOUS!!"

2.  I am PSYCHED about moving into a new house.  While the house that NGU has provided us has been a wonderful blessing, I am ready to move on.  When you move often, there is something so satisfying about throwing stuff away and rearranging/repurposing to fit a new space.  Can't wait!

3.  Almost the entire staff from NGU is coming AND we are reuniting with other coaching friends from CSU and USC.  Hooray!  There will be seven wives and lots of kids.  Nothing like taking your friends with you!

4. There will be a LOT more opportunities for Gracie and Jack once we move.  How so, you say?  Our location in Tigerville is, literally, in the middle of nowhere.  This greatly limits what we can do extracurricularly.  I can't wait to take them to activities that will help them become well-rounded children!

5. There is a train museum.  Therefore, my parents (or at least my father) will be willing to travel more often :o)

6.  The cost of living is 13% lower than the national average.  This equals more shoes in my closet.  Just kidding...kinda...

7.  Rich history in music, festivals, pottery, food, and Civil Rights.  Something for everyone!

See?? Isn't this all so exciting!?!?!

As you can see, there is a lot to look forward to in the Staggs family's bright future!  Truly, we are looking at this as the next step in God's plan for our family.  Our life together has been a great adventure, and God has provided us with more blessings and opportunities than anyone deserves.  Please continue to pray for us through the LOOOOOONG separation.  It is difficult for all, especially Gracie and Jack.  Now that I am on my own, I will try and spend some time posting on here.  Don't want to keep everyone in the dark!

Until next time...