We are fortunate enough to be in the final stretch of moving. Everything is settled but our mortgage. That is a big hurdle, and we are holding our breath until that is through. But on the buyers end, everything seems settled, so ready or not, we are moving anywhere between 11/23 and 12/6.
We are really excited about the move, and luckily, so are the kids. But as I go through the days completing tasks and going places, I find myself wondering if this will be the last time I go there/do that. I know this is a normal part of moving, but it reminds me how bittersweet a move really is.
1. I will definitely miss easy access to my family. This goes without saying, and isn't one of the mini-epiphanies I am talking about. I've realized this all along. But on a "things I'll miss" list, this has to go on top. Dinner at mom's, runs with Beth, and being not too far grandma for a weekend visit, are all things that won't be as easy once we move. Also, when I get locked out at our new home, I will be completely screwed b/c there will be nobody to borrow keys from. Did I mention the babysitting?
2. My gym. It sounds dumb, especially coming from me, but I really like my gym. I like the classes, the feel, and the vibe. I went a lot over the summer, and kind of tapered off as I concentrated on running leading up to the half marathon. But lately (especially with the cold weather) I have been back to the gym, and I really enjoy it.
3. Our pediatrician. I am taking Mac and Oli for flu shots today and I realize this might be our last visit there. I went there when I was little. They have been so great with both kids, and especially helpful about fitting us in whenever we needed something. In Oli's baby days, when we didn't have any answers about his hydrocephalus, legs, or anything else, they were always kind and patient. And when Mac hid under the exam table, screaming, and had to be restrained by no less than me and 2 nurses to get a shot, they were so kind and patient. Service like that can't be replaced.
4. Our library. I looooove our library. I took Mac weekly when she was a baby. Both kids have spent lots of time there. Although we go less now that the kids are in school, all of the librarians know us, and I don't think that there is ever a time when at least one of us doesn't have something out on loan. It is a beautiful place with lots of choices, and we can borrow from any other library in Middlesex county. I haven't bought a book for myself in years because the selection is so good!
5. My Starbucks. Because working at home isn't always conducive to getting work done, I have a trio of Starbucks that I rotate among when I need to get out of the house to be productive. They are my happy places, and have seen me though coursework, dissertation, lesson plans, and other papers. Just as research shows that you can improve test performance by studying in the location that you will take the test, I think that I am productive in Starbucks where I have been productive in the past. Like my productivity is imprinted.
I'm sure that there is so much more that I will think of as I visit over the next few weeks. This isn't meant to be a downer, b/c a) I realize I'm fortunate to have had all of these places, and b) I do realize we are only moving an hour away, and that things aren't that different there. This is more of a fond remembrance, looking forward to the future. And I realize that no matter where we go, Tim, the kids, and I will make great memories and a great home. And no matter where we go, the love and support of our truly wonderful parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandparents will be with us.
