The last six moths of my life has consisted of MAJOR changes, that a year ago, I never would have imagined. As of now, I have the attitude (and hope to retain it) that it’s all good.
The latest change occurred last week. Due to downsizing at my beloved newspaper, I am being laid off. I will work until the end of April, then I’m done. After that, I hope to take about 6 weeks or so, to wrap everything up in Miami, maybe do a wee bit of traveling, then head back to Utah.
Yes, I said it……It looks like I’m going to be moving back to Utah. I will miss Miami in many ways, but am happy to be getting out just in the nick of time. Besides the horrendous summer weather, the economic situation down here is brutal. I know it’s bad everywhere, but this town has been hit really hard.
The job is what brought me to Miami, and has kept me here for 15 years. I never meant to stay here as long as I did. And, the thought of growing old here depresses the hell out of me. As far as Utah goes, I don’t feel like I’m running home. I feel like I’m returning, after 15 plus years, as a grown-up. I still have 3 living grandparents, and have missed my niece and nephew’s entire lives. Now that I’m sober, clear and present, I finally feel like I have a lot to contribute as far as being a member of my family. For this I am grateful. Returning to Utah is something that I once would have scoffed at. Today, it seems like the right thing to do.
In July, I’ll be turning 40. Recently, I have taken to saying that I will be spending my 40th birthday, unemployed, living in my parents basement. I get a huge kick out of saying this. Things could be so much worse. I don’t know what my future holds, but I’m excited to find out.
To be continued…….
9 responses so far ↓
Pants // March 16, 2009 at 1:14 pm |
I’m glad that you are handling all of your changes so well. Also very glad you will be moving to Utah! No shame in living in your parents’ basement. xoxo
J. // March 16, 2009 at 2:22 pm |
Oh Amy, sorry about your job. I’m facing a similar return to my hometown in April, if for different reasons. And I wish I had your attitude about it. I wanted to return in triumph, but instead I’m coming back in loss.
Bunnie // March 16, 2009 at 2:39 pm |
So sorry to hear about your job. I made the same move back to UT, at the end of last year, after I had said for years that I never would. It has actually turned out pretty good and I am glad to be home. I hope you have the same experience.
Amy // March 16, 2009 at 3:05 pm |
Pants – Please know that you making the same change a few years ago, helped me tremendously in making this decision. I’m happy that I’ll get to see more of you, my friend!
J – Thanks! I find that the less I think (obsess) about it, the better off I am. I have no control over the situation, and just have to do what feels right. Honestly, I never thought I’d find myself moving home.
Bunnie – I’m glad it’s been good for you. We’re both lucky that we have family that we can turn to during this bizarre time. I must say, getting out of the south is really appealing. Especially as hurricane season approaches. Thanks for the words of encouragement.
Sra // March 16, 2009 at 5:18 pm |
I’m going to be leaving Utah at the end of July, and I think I will never return here to live again (though I will return to visit my family). So what you’re saying is I should never say never, right?
eusmaca // March 16, 2009 at 7:25 pm |
Trust me… when I moved out of Miami 6 years ago, I thought I was going to miss it to death… and it was not so, I did not miss anything about it, not the rude people, not the crowds, not the TRAFFIC, nothing…. the only thing I missed was my friends, but that was resolved by going on a lot of mini road trips and vacations!
Good luck on your new life road, I’m sure you will find it better than ever!
Amy // March 16, 2009 at 9:19 pm |
Sra – Pants, Bunny & I are all living proof. Never say never. Utah may or may not be a permanent place for me, but for now it feels right. I never thought I would say that.
Monica – Thanks! After 15 years, I’m finally used to Miami. There are many things I’ll miss, but many more that I won’t. I feel like I grew into an adult here, and for that I’m grateful. I’ll miss my many amazing friends, but that’s what airplanes are for.
Gatsby Girl // March 18, 2009 at 4:48 pm |
Going to miss u. Thanks for all of your advice to me when I was making the move to Miami–Browns, Epicure, Orange Carrot,where to live…
and u know miami isn’t going anywhere–if utah doesn’t work out–u can always come back. Or I can mail u boxes of la carreta and then u won’t miss it so much anymore.
FFG // March 19, 2009 at 1:07 am |
I am sure that the move will be quite therapeutic. I am even getting excited for you.