now what?

OK, now I really need to figure out how to change the name of this blog... because we're not in Sweden anymore!

After a no-hitches move of the house, the pets and us, we arrived in Portland 24 hours after we left Älmhult. Woke up Saturday to a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Starbucks and grocery shopping at Whole Foods. I think I hugged Lewis about 5 times in the store, I was so happy. Then, on NFL Sunday, we headed to the local Steelers bar to watch the game. We thought that Sophie's attention span would force us to leave at halftime, but she was great for the whole game. Our wonderful weekend ended by catching falling leaves in the forest near our apartment.

Then Monday morning hit.

I didn't expect to feel so disoriented. But when Lewis went to work, I was definitely left with a feeling of "now what?" What do I do? What's my plan for the week? What's my purpose? It's safe to say I freaked out. I felt a little better after finding a Portland activity website and purchasing a dry-erase calendar for the refrigerator.

Yesterday was the day Sophie's dance classes were supposed to start — finally things will start to fit into place! We showed up at the Children's Museum in our best dancing outfits only to be told the instructor was sick and the class was canceled. Nooooo! We spent the hour enjoying the museum instead (free of charge), and then made a quick stop at the Zoo to see the monkeys.

I don't have my new role in this new life figured out yet. But I guess as long as I have a smiling child and some to-dos in my notebook, I'm doing OK.

Comments

[Andrea]

I bet it is disorienting! Not having a routine can be that way. And identity stuff related to being free from work for now.

Now you have a chance, though, to discover your own rhythm separate from work (except for freelance deadlines). Maybe pick a race to train for. I've got a coworker who is going to the one in Portland this weekend. And pick a couple of craft projects or sewing/knitting/cooking/design/language classes as well. Plus, you and Sophia can be regulars in the Portland cafe scene. ;)
I know you aren't necessarily asking for advice...

[Andrea]

I like the new title!

[Sally]

I have wonderful friends who live on the 2500 block of NE 47th Ave if you need anyone to talk to about that neighborhood. They've lived there for about 10 years.

Good luck with the transition. It's a lot of work "recreating" yourself!

Love the Portland Zoo and the Children's Museum. ah, fond memories!!

Glad the move went smoothly and that you're all together again.

[Amy]

Thinking of you hugging Lewis in Wholefoods really made me smile. I really get that.

You and Sophie are going to find your groove soon. Until then, there is nothing wrong with planning a day around Pumpkin latte fixes.

[Vanessa]

I feel the same as Amy, the image of you hugging Lewis in WF made me happy. :-)
And I know I've said it a thousand times, but I am still so excited for you. This is it!