Settling Into Our New Tennessee Home

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We started the new year by moving into our new home in Tennessee, and even weeks later, it still feels surreal to say. This new build sits on almost two acres and checked every box we were hoping for. It is the right size for our family, thoughtfully designed, and already feels like a place where we can settle in and stay awhile.

This house is more than just a fresh start. It represents stability, space, and a slower pace of life that we were ready for.

Choosing Tennessee

Our move to Tennessee came after a season of big decisions and deep loss. After my husband chose to leave the military last September, we found ourselves navigating post military life while also grieving the loss of his dad last summer. That combination shaped everything that came next.

We chose Tennessee because family is here. While much of our extended family still lives in Florida and Minnesota, being close to loved ones in Tennessee has already made a difference. This move was about being present, supported, and connected during a time when that mattered most.

Adjusting to Post Military Life

Life after the military looks different in ways both expected and unexpected. We are learning a new rhythm as a family, one without constant moves or countdowns. There is still adjustment happening, but there is also relief in knowing we are building something more permanent.

This season has been about honoring where we came from while allowing ourselves to move forward.

Rural Living

We do not live in a big city, and that was intentional. Our area is more rural, quieter, and slower paced, which has been a welcome change. The space around us feels freeing, especially for the kids.

As we look ahead to spring and summer, we are excited for what this land will offer. A pool will eventually be set up, the golf cart will get plenty of use, and the kids will finally have room to just be kids. Four wheelers may very well be in our future.

Snow Days

Shortly after moving in, a snow and ice storm kept us homebound so far for over a week and a half. Schools have been cancelled repeatedly, so it has been me and the kids at home while my husband continued working through some rough and icy conditions.

The weather slowed down the process of settling in, but it also gave us more time together at home during these first weeks.

Almost a Month In

We are nearly a month into living here, and the house is finally starting to feel put together. There are still things we need, and I am waiting for the weather to clear so I can shop in person. I have avoided online shopping as much because I feel guilty asking delivery drivers to navigate these back roads in such poor conditions.

My kids have been a huge help throughout all of this. They have adapted, pitched in, and handled this transition with patience and resilience.

Showing Up Anyway

This season has been full of change, grief, growth, and gratitude all at once. We are still adjusting and still finding our rhythm, but we love it here. Tennessee already feels like the place where we can plant roots, heal, and build a steady life for our family.

Being home so much this past week made me miss my creative outlets. Blogging and coffee shop reviewing are things I truly enjoy, and I have felt the pull to return to them. Even with kids home, boxes still unpacked, and life feeling a bit full, I decided to sit down and write anyway.

I showed up today, and that felt important.

Sometimes progress looks like writing anyway, even when everything is not perfect. And for now, that is enough.

FAQ: Settling Into Our New Tennessee Home

What inspired your move to Tennessee
We chose to move to Tennessee to be closer to family after my husband left the military and after the loss of his father. Being near loved ones felt important during this season of transition and healing.

What do you love most about your new home
We love the space, the land, and the slower pace of life. Having nearly two acres gives our kids room to play and gives us space to breathe and settle in.

How has post military life been for your family
It has been an adjustment filled with both challenges and gratitude. We are learning a new rhythm while honoring grief and enjoying more time together as a family.

How did the winter weather affect your move
Snow and ice has kept us homebound for over a week and a half, with school cancellations and difficult travel conditions. It slowed the settling process but also gave us more time together at home.

Why did you decide to start blogging again now
Even with life feeling busy and a little chaotic, blogging is a creative outlet for me. Showing up and writing again felt important, even if everything is not perfectly settled yet.