Hola from California!
That’s the obligatory opening for any post-west-coast-move, and I am nothing if not occasionally cliche or corny - consider it one of Bloom’s *hella* endearing qualities. It’s been a little over four months since moving across the country, and I’m finally starting to feel more settled into this city.
Taking this leap wasn't easy. It broke my heart knowing that I was leaving so many people and places I love, but the the enormity of walking on a plane to a new life was big enough to allow me to diffuse most of the natural fears and pains associated with change. I just kept putting one foot in front of the other and tried my best to stay in the present – a task by brain is usually so incapable of. My phone filled up with sweet words and well wishes and I feel so lucky to have such positive, loving people in my life.
It took about 5 seconds for San Francisco to steal my heart.
I still have to restrain myself from walking around with a big dopey smile on my face (that is, when I’m not trying to hide my panting while taking on these brutal hills). They surround me! I’m writing this from my new digs in the mission. I live in an adorable apartment to call home in the meantime, complete with just enough southern charm to temper my occasional itch for the south, and a view that is OUT OF THIS WORLD. I sometimes sit staring out into the hills and hundreds or colorful houses that climb their banks. At night, the hills are covered in glittering lights - like mountains filled with stars and I make wishes on them for everyone I miss back home.
It’s hardest when I begin to sense just how far away I am from the people I love. Have I left my heart in Florida? I’m fighting this and it is not a question of whether or not I made the right decision. That question is inexorably answered every day when I step outside into this beautiful city. This is where I’m supposed to be right now, I have never had an inkling of doubt. Cali was calling so I went… and not just for the ku$h. I’ve needed this change for quite some time and knew from the beginning that this wasn’t going to be easy. I’ve actually been surprised at how positive it’s been so far. I'm constantly surrounded by people who inspire me and have filled up much of my time here with city wanderings. Both leave me quite content. Despite living in a bustling city, I have worked to consciously slow down and take better care of myself and my environment. This couldn’t have happened if I never left.
I hope to encourage anyone who has contemplated a big move for sometime. My advice is: JUST GO. The opportunities and friends will find you. You will feel lonely at times, but this can easily be masked by the newness of it all. Spend as much time outdoors as possible, my occasional bouts of loneliness have seemed to respond well to a few hours of meandering through the parks in the bright fresh air. Find out how other people live, eat, and love. Learn from them wherever you go. Enjoy the adventure and remember home will always be there.
I wasn't even a month into this big leap before separation anxiety kicked in and San Francisco was blessed with a quick visit from Bloom's heart and soul; Sarah and Elizabeth. With what little time we had together, we were able to squeeze in some unforgettable adventures. Of course, no typical Bloom hang falls short of enough productive 'chill' sessions, park runs, outdoor excursions, tequila tastings, and too much time spent crying over the endless struggle of STILL not living in the same city. One day though, and when this happens... I hope the world is ready.
Muir woods and the Golden Gate Park Botanical Gardens were our favorites among our Cali wanderings. Both such breathtaking, and beautiful places to be. Everything was blooming in the gardens (pun intended). We spent a generous amount of time soaking up the diversity of both climate and terrain, while gushing over all of the remarkable plant-life that was so foreign to us. Surrounded by wilderness so fresh, and full of wisdom – our Muir Woods hike was a great way to relax and reconnect, all while getting a refreshing workout in. The Redwoods were absoulutely breathtaking – as they towered over us like natural cityscapes, sunlight reflected off their leaves bringing life to the forest. Here are a few of our favorite pictures from our outdoor explorations:
Remember to support State & National Parks!
-Barbara
**stay tuned for more adventures of B in the Bay: Mission Edition**