Lately I have been stressed for unknown reasons. I can’t quite pinpoint what exactly is bothering me but something sure is… I’ve been wound up a little more than usual – yes, it is possible for me to be even crazier than my normal, baseline state. My attempts to calm down and relax have been unsuccessful as I’ve been on the go-go lately: a week in Fort Lauderdale for work, a wedding in Houston, a work week in Dallas, another wedding in Houston, etc.
I knew some time with my family was what I needed, because I find spending time with people who get you down to your core is an amazing way to refocus and re-center. This Saturday I boarded a plane to Omaha to spend a week at my parent’s house in my hometown. It has been almost 9 months since I’ve been home (a reality I accepted when I left two years ago).
You may be thinking: what about that pesky thing called work? Well…due to the client’s budget restrictions, I have only been traveling to Fort Lauderdale every other week. My “off weeks” usually consist of me playing musical workspaces between the amazing Starbucks below my apartment and my favorite chair in my room (a bedroom chair was quite possibly the best thing I have ever bought). Earlier in August, I thought to myself, “Why don’t I work from Iowa one week?” It was like the flexibility of my work situation finally hit me: if I have wifi and phone reception, I can answer emails and dial into calls anywhere which includes my parent’s house (they have internet in rural Iowa along with electricity and running water…).
At this point, I haven’t even been home for 48 hours and already there is a calming effect. I’ve had the stereotypical, yet wonderfully familiar, meal of grilled pork chops, potatoes and corn on the cob. My mother’s side of the family came over yesterday, and it felt great to see my aunts, uncles and some cousins. Also, it was reassuring that my aunts still have their talents in the kitchen (I may never eat again after yesterday’s buffet). My cat who is nearing 20 barely remembers me, but we are working on our strained relationship – she doesn’t much care for me…or anyone for that matter.
Yummy!
Until I have a home of my own that truly feels like home, this house will be home, home. I’ve moved A LOT in the last few years, and no place has felt permanent. Dallas feels closer to long-term but definitely not permanent. I don’t know how often I will make it back to this house, but it has a soothing power that my apartment will never have. There is such a special place for home, home.
My work partner for the week, Amelia the diva cat, is not so much into work
Trina I love this! I so totally can relate especially now. I am so far away and wa soooo lonesome but have acepted new people and friends into my life now. The Jordanian/Palestinians are such kind people and they do take care of me especilly when I get homesick – they are here to cheer me up and keep my tears away -though at night they sometimes do come creeping back.
BRENDA! I can’t even imagine how much you must miss Ohio!! It’s nice that the locals there have been so welcoming and kind to you. You hit a key point about taking it into your own hands in that you have accepted them into your life. Part of the battle in being so far away is accepting that you aren’t home anymore and taking new people into your life.
It’s ok to be homesick too! When you do get home, I’m sure it will be incredibly wonderful to be around your family and be in your house.
Beaner, I am so sorry we missed you at the potluck. Rich’s brother and sister-in-law were here from Kansas, and I didn’t feel up to much to too much traveling this last week. We are at the count down for the baby “Peanut” she only has 2.5 weeks left and has used up any amount of space she can find in my short torso. Hope all is well, Miss you lots and hope to see you on Saturday – love ya Chole
Chole!! No worries about the pot luck. I figured you were not very mobile these days
I’ll work with mom and dad to coordinate a time for Saturday and email you. I can’t wait to meet “Peanut”!!!!
Trina!! This is so good, you really have a gift!! Loved it!
Ah you are too sweet Lacey!! Thank you!