Do I dare attempt to make an update to this blog? It’s been over a half of a year since I updated, at this point I’m thinking should I shut this thing down or try to breathe some life back into it? Well, dear blog readers (all 10 or so of you), I’m going to attempt to start updating my blog again. I figured the timing is fitting since the 4th of July is rapidly approaching and that will officially mark the one year anniversary of Bella and I moving out here to join John in our new life together!
What have I learned in the past year? Where do I even start? I think some things have been easier than anticipated, while other things continue to be a challenge. For starters, I miss my family and friends. That’s a given. I even missed them when I lived 3 hours away, so I knew that would happen! Fortunately for us, we get lots of visitors and have made it back to Iowa a decent amount so we’re making it work!
I’ve also learned that making new friends in an unfamiliar city is a challenge… especially when you work from home. We’ve met lots of wonderful people here, but it’s so much easier when you work in an office and are immediately “forced” to bond with your co-workers. I so enjoy working with people, so working from home has been a mixed blessing! On the flip-side, Bella and I are total besties now – I’m pretty sure she goes through separation anxiety when I leave the room.
This new adventure has also brought so many great things… John and I definitely have much more time to do fun stuff together. I never really thought about it, but having a house, car, etc. comes with so many responsibilities and chores that by getting rid of those things (for the most part) frees you up to actually get out and to enjoy some together time more than before! We used to spend our weekends mowing the lawn or cleaning the house, and now my tiny apartment takes no time to clean and there is no lawn! So instead, we can head to the park with our dog for the afternoon and not feel guilty about it!
I’ve also learned Bella is much more adaptable than we gave her credit for. She transitioned to apartment/city living with ease. She loves getting attention from everyone on our elevator rides and walking through the city, she eats up all the compliments and fuss that is made over her (and trust me, it happens a lot)! And although she has flown a couple times now, I will say she is not the best traveler – but hey, we make it from point A to point B and that’s all that really matters.
Most importantly, I recognize that I have a great life with an amazing and supportive husband that listens to me when I’m happy (or sad), a sweet little dog and the best family and friends that help support us no matter what we do or where we want to move☺ Distance definitely makes you appreciate your family and what a blessing they are!
To give some perspective on how much time has passed since I’ve been here, I’m including two pictures – one of World Trade Center from last summer and one that was taken a few weeks ago. It’s amazing how much progress has been made in such a short time.
Oh and in case you read the previous post from last summer about my bird attack
here, the b*tch of a bird is back and nastier than ever.
Until next time! - Lindsay
