The Graves Family is in the midst of great change. Our house in Martinsburg is under contract and we should close the end of January. We will be moving in with my parents until we find a new place in the Manassas area. This time has been stressful and heartwrenching in ways that I just cannot put to words.
It really all started when Jason was laid off at Perot in May of 2008. I was still experiencing major complications after a hysterectomy for pelvic prolapse. His old company offered him a job in a new and completely different direction than he had previously done. He was willing to try anything that would put food on the table and keep his family provided for. What we didn't realize is just how much that job would risk tearing apart the very thing that was most important to him. He was on call 24/7. We were shackled to his job and drowning. Add to that, the fact that the pay was actually less due to how it was broken out (bi-weekly instead of bi-monthly) and the benefits and taxes were higher. And, he really hated the work. Programming just isn't his cup of tea. He did his best, and we know that the Lord used that time for many things. But, when he was laid off there in May of 2010, we cannot say that we were horrified. It was a relief. Now, the money (or lack there-of) was a different issue.
After 5+ months of being laid off, he was offered and accepted a position with a great company in McLean, VA. The pay works out better, the benefits are great, and best of all... it is EXACTLY what he was asking the Lord for. Now, it is not without a cost. He is staying with some wonderful friends in Northern Virginia during the week and only home on weekends. This means that not only am I completely distanced from my church family, but also from my husband throughout the week. It has not been easy on any of us.
We put the house up for sale right after Jason was laid off. We are taking a nearly $100k LOSS on the house in this sale. We have no savings anymore. But, the Lord has been faithful and has provided for our needs. We HAD to get out from under this mortgage and we need to be closer to our church family. The Lord is still working out all the details and we are trusting in Him for our every step.
We are praying that we'll be able to start looking for a house in Virginia next week. But, we'll be staying with my parents until that is all finalized. We are beyond blessed by their generosity and love.
So, right now everything is in boxes and we miss Jason all week. But, we are ready for the next season of life and all that it will bring. :)
