A Whole New Perspective
It’s official. I’m settled. I’ve bought a place and I’m newly planted, excited for my roots to grow. It has been a busy, hectic couple of weeks, but doing this completely by myself has been extraordinary. Never before have I taken on something of this magnitude all by myself. From applying for and getting a mortgage, to arranging moving, packing up everything I own, truly considering every move before I’ve made it, has been empowering and incredibly satisfying.
Thankfully, my strong son came over on the weekend to lift the heaviest things, and brought a bottle of Veuve to toast this big step. The view is different here, a calmer view than my last one – instead of downtown Manhattan, my new view is of the George Washington Bridge. I am just a stone’s throw away from NYC – actually about a mile, across the Hudson. No, I’m not swimming over.
There are lots of water birds here – and crazily – parrots! How is that even a thing?! I thought parrots were only in the tropics, and I definitely wouldn’t call New Jersey the tropics. Apparently, two parrots stowed away on a boat over a century ago, and found their new home in New Jersey. As soon as I actually see one, I’ll be sure to document it. Conversely, it may also be something that natives tell newcomers, sort of like Wyoming’s Jackalopes. The joke is on all the newbies.
I’ve got room here to spread out. It’s about twice the size of my other NJ apartment, and about ½ the size of my home in Utah. But it is perfect, and I’m safe, comfy and happy. I’m getting ready to take a trip to Bermuda this weekend, and am trying to unpack as much as possible before I go. I’m excited to come home to a clean and organized home. I’d say I’m halfway there.
What a lovely Mother’s Day weekend it was. I talked to all of my darlings, and got to spend time with my favorite little guy – he’s so smiley and fun. His personality is starting to show – a little stubborn side starting to come out. He’s so cute when he balls his fists and growls, that even though he thinks he must be very powerful, he is like a baby bear, and all I want to do is scoop him up and cuddle him. He is growing molars now, so the chewing has recommenced. Chewing on everything! But it is more deliberate than the baby chewing of infancy.
Here in my new place, he’ll have his own bathtub, and I’ve already got a tropical fish bath pad down in the tub for him – just waiting for a visit! It will have to be after Bermuda, but I can hardly wait.
Leaving my little apartment here was bittersweet. It was the most perfect little cocoon for me to hide and heal and transform within. I’m so happy to be at this juncture; stronger, happier, and calmer. Now I’m going to continue to live the life I deserve and have always wanted. A big life full of exciting new adventures, incredible family ties, and joyful explorations!
