"Quite a few," his grandmother answers. And does not tell him that it may be some time before every one is emptied. Tony Patterson, our mover, who did a great job, said there were 140 boxes. And then there was the furniture--and the car.
Some of the resident chickens are settled and enjoy their view. That's Zoe, standing rather than sitting, in the first day of nursery school. Zach on his way to Tae-Kwan-Do class.
We are very happy to be here in Portland, Oregon, where people seem less stressed. Okay, it's an illusion but that's a relief some times too. So many friends and acquaintances were puzzled that we'd choose to leave the Big Apple.
Our last day in the City, AM, the free newspaper handed out at subway stops, ran a front cover to remind us of the enormity of our decision. But this works for us--a smaller, gentler place: second stage retirement.
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Good luck with life in Portland. DH and I have always been at odds as to our choice in environment (he arid, I humid), so will probably stay in NY since family is the only common pull.
Posted by: eve | September 13, 2009 at 07:21 AM
Welcome to Portland! We need to have lunch some day when we both have calmer days.
Posted by: Gerrie | September 13, 2009 at 12:04 PM
The Pacific Northwest will fulfill you, I believe! It is such a gorgeous place to soak up nature, walk, meditate; beauty abounds and soothes the soul. I have a very, very good vegan knitting friend there from my teaching days. A wonderful young woman if you are seeking some fiber direction! I'm so excited for you. I found my move exhilerating (after the exhaustion went away!) The far away family, I know about that. Satchel called me the other night to make sure I still remembered him. Turn a knife in my heart??? His mama was astounded. She said, "Mom, I had know idea THAT was what he wanted to tell you!"
Much love and many blessings, Marianne
Posted by: marianne | September 13, 2009 at 07:07 PM
great post! great kids! about the boxes.....they multiply in the night and when they find it crowded, they go rent a storage place for vacations.
Posted by: m.e. | September 15, 2009 at 07:22 PM
Welcome to the City of Roses! You will be arriving at one of the best times of the year: late summer before the rains come. When you're tired of unpacking boxes, take a drive through some of the old neighborhoods to watch the trees change. They may not be as venerable as some back east but some have been in place for close to 100 years and give our little patch of paradise the beauty we love.
Posted by: Duffy | September 15, 2009 at 08:04 PM