My family moved recently. It was a semi-significant adjustment. Semi adjustment because we only moved ten miles from our previous home and there was no job change. Significant adjustment because the girls switched schools, and to a child, ten miles is a light year.
For the first month, our youngest asked us each time we were out, “which house are we going back to?” We would explain, again, that we only have one home and the “new house” was where we lived permanently.
Thankfully, despite initial hesitation from both of our daughters they are already thriving. They feel comfortable in their new schools and have made friends.
The most important piece, though, was the absolute upgrade in their lifestyle. This new neighborhood has a little lake with a sandy beach. At our former residence, they had no place to swim. Now they can dive into the murky water, build sand castles and ride around on their floaties.
There is something idyllic about sitting in the shade, watching the girls play and feeling free to take a deep breath. It might only be for ten minutes, but I much prefer this release to a hurried pace.
Although we are often intimidated by the work associated with taking the kids to the lake, we normally leave satisfied. Their clothes, our van and everything else in a palpable radius will be covered in sand. But our hearts are at peace.
A vacuum can get rid of the sand. Our mental health is worth more than a new dust buster!
We moved to decrease our commute and be closer to the city’s conveniences. Those goals were accomplished and now we have the added bonus of a relaxation station in our backyard.
I acknowledge this sounds like a super brag and for that I apologize. I simply share this post as recognition that sometimes change is for the better.
I feel really grateful to know a less chaotic life. I thought others might appreciate it too.
Happy summer!
K