We took a big step towards settling down in Virginia. Wednesday morning, Feb 28, 2007, we closed on the purchase of a house here in Dale City.
For me, the closing was a typical event of crossed signals, missed connections and general confusion. For our realtor and the other professionals it was an embarrassment of chaos. So I’d have to guess they’re just not used to doing business the “Charest way.”
It’s taken 39 long months, but yesterday it finally happened. Yesterday, Winnie received her letter from the INS (USCIS) welcoming her to America.
Today is Chinese New Year, the main holiday of the year for more than one quarter of the world’s population. This is the start of family gatherings, fireworks, the Reunion dinner, dancing lions, and fifteen days of celebration. In the Chinese zodiac this is the Year of the Pig (or Boar).
So to all the millions of people around the world celebrating today, I wish you 新年快樂 (Xīnnián kuàilè) and 恭喜發財 (Gōngxǐ fācái) !
Follow below to find out what you may expect from people born during the Year of The Pig past, present, and future.
It’s been an interesting week here in beautiful northern Virginia. We had a snow day, delay in closing on buying our house, and a possible closing date on the house we’re trying to sell down in Mississippi. Valentine’s Day came and went and Chinese New Year, the year of the Pig, is fast approaching.
Yesterday afternoon, Saturday, Winnie and I were witness to a relatively minor auto accident. Minor in that no one appeared seriously hurt even though three vehicles were involved. We were one of the first on the scene to actually stop. I did the Good Samaritan bit and helped out until the pros arrived then left.
Not a big deal as these things go, but after some reflection last night I dredged up feelings from an earlier incident.
The months of house-hunting are over, and our life in an apartment are coming to a welcomed end. Yesterday, our offer on a house was accepted!
When we moved to Virginia, we knew we’d need some time to settle in and learn the area. So we opted for renting a small apartment and “camping out” here in the bedroom community of Dale City. I thought we could spend at least six months in the apartment before venturing back into the house buying mode. In reality, after three long months we’re ready to get back into our own home.
And during these months we’ve thoroughly explored the lifestyle of the Urban Pioneer.
It’s been more than three years now since I first sent in Winnie’s immigration paperwork. Even though she did gain a visa for entry into the US, after only 20 months, this was just a “temporary” visa, good until her permanent one was approved.
Today, we’ve finally received an appointment for her permanent visa interview.
Ron Charest makes his first post of the New Year of 2007 wishing everyone a great year to come.
Winnie and I just returned from Christmas at Mom’s house in Burlingham, New York. It was a nice Christmas, and a pleasant but quick trip.