What I Have Learned This Trip Part 1

One of my goals for blogging during our journey to Tucson was to write about what I am learning about myself during this experience. Here are some of my thoughts. I'm calling this Part 1 because I'm likely to think of more things to report later.

1. Home is where WE are. That is a quote from the movie Julie and Julia. Paul Child says that to Julia when they are stressing about where to live after having to leave France. Larry and I have been getting along well and have been supportive of each other in this three month endeavor. That is nice to know.

2. I am happy in a smaller space. I think Larry is, too. Although I treasure the memories of our house in Bellevue, I don't need upscale surroundings and lots of space to be happy. I like having less to take care of. Staying here for a longer period has helped make it easier to leave our house in Bellevue, if it sells! We have all the stuff we need here, so it may make it even easier to downsize more when we move to a smaller place in Bellevue.

3. I figured out what activities in Bellevue I want to prune out and what I want to keep. ASG and sewing are still important to me, yoga is less important as are piano lessons. I found that I have had the discipline to practice both yoga and piano about every day. I just don't feel the need at this time for yoga classes and piano lessons. I'll resume involvement with ASG in Bellevue. I want to keep up with my volunteer work at PCC Cooks. I didn't find anything comparable in Tucson and miss that.

4. At first when we were here, I really enjoyed not having commitments and thinking about time. I gradually developed a routine and scheduled myself with some activities such as guided hikes and tours. It was good for me to have a break, but it also is nice to have connections and interactions with people in the community. When we come back again for a prolonged stay, I will contact the volunteer bureau and look for opportunities to help. I also want to join a hiking club and go on hikes around the area. Larry wants to get involved with a bridge group. There are many opportunities for fun and involvement here.