You Could Call It A Sabbatical

Or running for the hills. Whatever you choose to call it, however you frame it, I'm leaving the city and its burbs for a decidedly different lifestyle.

It's been pretty amusing, the reactions from folks who figured since I've been here almost 50 years I'd just stay put.

Voicemail from my mom, upon hearing the news via email to my dad: "This is your mother. I need to know what you're doing. Call me. Please."

In-person remark from my son's dad: "You don't have to move half-way around the world."

My supportive editor: "So. You're gonna do it."

The amazing thing, folks, is that I didn't leave before now. You can thank a number of people for that fact, for whatever it's worth. Sister Martha Ann's kids are the first three reasons I'm still here. Then you can render gratitude (or blame) to H2's employment in the 90's. Then there's The Boy, of course, and his world. There ya go -- about 24 years of reasons to stay put, all behind me now.

Well, of course, The Boy and his world continue, but he's a big guy now. The country'll do him good. He can always seek suburban solace when necessary (and possible for his parents.)

The point is -- the truth is -- that I haven't stayed here because I love my surroundings. Sure, I think I own the joint in partnership with my sisters, but that's not the same as wanting to be here. I've breathed more deeply in the hills and near running water any time my karma has afforded me a visit to such. It's time to get more of it.

Sure, there are things and people I'll miss. A lot. I can't swear that I won't have a few nights compounded by a sore heartache. Plenty of times I'll be nervous about this or that. In fact, a big part of why I'm able to pull this move off is because I'm thinking of it as temporary, until it proves otherwise. Like I've told a few, we'll see if I fall in love with livin in the sticks.

It's an adventure. In the unmistakable style of a girl born in The Republic. Nothing more.

Comments

[Darbi]

I couldn't be more happy for you! What an excellent adventure, and what a show of independence and bravery that you're going through with it. You're who I wanna be when I grow up. Love you!

[The Bodhisattva]

Kinda funny. Was just tellin the boy how we're gonna be modern-day pioneers, sorta in reverse, re-populating the small towns that have been nearly evacuated over the last 40 years. The Internet is The Force.

[Jenn England]

Tracy~
I am such a wimp.
I am reading at work and I can't stop crying.
I so don't want you to go. (I hated it when you travelled to NY for goodness sake...)

I feel even worse b/c I spent 18 years satisfying my wanderlust - but now that I am committed to one spot (stupid custody agreement) I want my peeps to stay near me.... How selfish of me...

I love you to pieces and hope hope hope that you have a wonderful and eventful adventure. I just wish you could do it in your mind while your body stays here.

[Lynn]

I for one think it sounds like a great adventure. Everything thing is temporary when you really think about the great scheme of things. Think I'll bring my kayak for a visit.

[TP Bodhisattva (of course)]

Jenn -- :) thanks, it is good to be loved. I'll be back.

My Sistah -- Temporary R Us. Fer sure. Kayaking is big out there. I plan to increase my bra size two-fold from all the kayakin.

[Mira]

So glad for you because I know how important it is to meet those needs within yourself. Bummed for me because I always enjoy conversations/tea/time with you.