It’s been a week since I promised some insight about my big bungee jump move but here I am, still staring at this blank page. There are such mixed emotions with this move, I imagine that’s what the procrastination was about.
But, moving forward — It’s happening. I’m moving from Austin to Charleston, hitting the road on Monday, 12 June.
For the last week I’ve been thinking about how and where to start this story; what someone on the outside (you) might be curious about - and compare that to all the thoughts, planning, emotional roller coaster, and activities going on in my world as the day gets closer. I decided to start with what I expect many of you are wondering, which are the basics.
If I were to start with the thoughts, planning, and activities going on in my world right now, this post would have started with “What the fuck.”
That will probably be the next post’s opening line. Until then, let’s get the basics taken care of.
I’ve been living with my sister since January when Kurt moved back to Dallas without me. I love my sister and she loves me. Six months living as a guest is long enough. For both of us.
Moving to France was an option and I do have my long-stay visa. I do want to live there at some point, however, Pablo is almost 15 years old. I am afraid that a big move like that will shorten his life. Yes, he’s a dog. No, I’m not willing to risk it.
In addition to moving to France, Maine was a consideration. I love Maine. NYC was also a consideration. I love NYC. I have history with Maine & NYC. They didn’t fit right now.
I have a couple of connections in Charleston which gives me a bit of security. Although I love Charleston’s history, I myself have no history in Charleston. It’s a neutral place. I also love Charleston’s architecture, art galleries, and restaurants.
Austin’s average temperature in June is 92 and the climate here is classified as
Humid Subtropical Climate under the Koppen Climate Classification. So, is Charleston’s
This is Austin’s 10-day forecast and Charleston’s 10-day forecast as I type this.
Charleston’s higher humidity may be more consistent, however the temperatures will be more moderate. We’ll see how this year goes. I’m willing to chance it.
BOLD-Women, the BW Circle & Don’t Retire! ReWIRE programs, and soon-to-be announced podcast project continue to be my focus and my future. With this move, I’m walking my talk.
In the French Quarter of Charleston.
I have not made any permanent decisions about Charleston, only that I intend to live there full-time for June 15, 2023 through June 14, 2024 - with the exception of a month here and there when I still intend to be in France.
A dear friend and former client from my days traveling to Boston from Maine lives in Charleston part-time. She and her husband will be there in September - YAY!
You may have seen my FB post about my mentor, Bari Baumgardner. She and her husband’s company, Sage Event Management, are based in Charleston so I hope to be able to spend more time learning from and connecting with them. YAY!
That’s it.
Yep.
1200 miles and 19 hours without any stops.
Or, in Pablo’s and my case, 3 and a half days with a stop in Madison, MS to visit my 95 year old Uncle Ed, my Dad’s youngest brother, and another stop in Augusta, GA.
Pablo will do fine, but he won’t like it. I hope that stopping for a day in MS lessens his anxiety and doesn’t just extend it.
Driving back and forth, Maine - Texas - Maine gives me an idea that he’ll likely not relax and lie down in the car until day 2, hour 7.
This is a picture of Pablo on the road from Maine to Texas. He was like this the first 2 days. Notice the curled tongue and imagine the hot dog breath. 🤢
The apartment in Charleston is fully furnished, including plates & a coffee maker (I’m told). I’m taking some books, clothes, my computer, and the Littlest Pablo.
And, no, not packed yet. Why would I be? I still have a couple of hours…
Stay tuned.
