A look back to our first night with keys

Applebees, candles, and camp chairs — not exactly what I imagined for our first night as homeowners.

Abigail and I drove up I-5 from Seattle on a blustery Friday in March, cars packed with a random assortment of homegoods: a crock-pot we never used (still haven’t), extra utensils and bowls (for two people who love takeout), and sleeping bags for our first night in our new home in Bellingham.

We found the keys tucked under one of the many painted frogs left by the previous owner, ripped the “For Sale” sign up from the yard, watched Autumn — our golden retriever — zoom around her furnitureless racetrack, ate lemon pound cake from our beloved Seattle roomie, and toasted box wine in coffee mugs from our incredible realtors.

Half an hour later, we were at Applebee’s waiting for two-for-one appetizers to kick in. Took a twelve-dollar Uber home after a few too many of those…um, apps. Perfect night.

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I share my story because that feeling — the mix of disbelief and gratitude — is waiting for you the moment you walk through the door of your new home with keys in hand.

The stress and logistics fade. What stays is the joy of standing still and thinking, this is home.

Whether your first night includes takeout or champagne, candles or moving boxes, I hope it’s one you’ll always remember — a night you can take pride in.

Whether you’re making fresh tracks or laying down familiar roots, it’s the night you can finally breathe deep and settle in.

If you’re ready to take that step toward your first night, I’d be honored to walk that path with you.

Future-you thanks you.

Cheers,