Autumn is my favorite time of year. I guess, for me, it means new beginnings, a chance to reset, realign, and prepare for winter. Much like a bear. Or, a schoolgirl. Either way. Whatever the case may be, there are few things I love more than walking under trees whose leaves are a whole palette of colors, my nose slightly numbed from the ocean-breeze, and feeling the sun on my back. It makes me nostalgic. reflective. peaceful. Well, we’re approaching these afternoons in Seattle and I really truly couldn’t be more excited. Things seem to be happening. There is that little buzz surrounding me, that feeling of “I can’t wait for what’s next” which for me, feels like a lot of new changes this year. It probably helps that I am employed this year. And not severely depressed and holed up in the old Upside-down. In fact, I’ve spent the [lesser part of] the last two weeks packing up my life in Upside-down. That’s right. Clayton, Bob and I are moving. I’m sure by now, all of you have heard if not witnessed the chaos that is the relationship between Bob and Spanky go totally South. Arctic. So, we’re moving. A bittersweet end for both Robin and I, but we’ve all agreed that this will be infinitely better for all parties involved. We’re closing the Magnolia chapter of this little life and turning the page with slight trepidation, as we set pen to paper and embark on the __________.
Clayton and I have signed a year lease for a quaint-ish little brick building about 6 blocks from Greenlake. These apartments were built in 1910 and served as hunting lodges back when Ravenna Blvd. was Ravenna River. The particular unit we’ve claimed appears to be a converted three-car garage, which is kinda cool because it means that our building, while still obviously a part of the complex, is set off by itself. Meaning we have what could be called a cottage under the freeway, all to ourselves! There is a small little area near our front door which I intent to cultivate into a functioning garden [or worm farm, if Rob Tupper has his way] come springtime. I say front door, because we have two doors. That’s right. A front AND back door. We’re also about 3 blocks from a fruit stand that our soon-to-be neighbor works at where we will have access to fresh produce. I should also mention that our “back yard” is a park-and-ride where pretty much every bus that runs in Seattle passes through, which will be a sheer delight for Mr. Claytone as he can catch the bus to Everett right there, shaving about an hour off of his commute to school. Perks!
For me, the move is serving as a catalyst for what I hope will be a chance to reset. realign. refresh my little life. With the relocation to a little bit more lively neighborhood, I’m intending to become a little bit more lively again, myself. I have already made an uncompromising list of changes that will take place in my realm. Things I am in charge of, things that affect my day-to-day, and ultimately, my happiness and vitality. Things like, oh I don’t know, paying bills on time. Re-tapping into my creativity. Visiting the dog park on a semi-regular basis. Reading books. Simple things. But, things that I’ve sort of let fall by the wayside that have compromised my ability to function effectively and happily. I’m due for a raise at the old Value Village as well, which can help set some of this stuff into motion. Primarily the bill paying. I’ve also made a few moves to start “moving up the corporate ladder” to bulk up my resume and pocketbook during these economic hard times. Which may eventually allow for me to (god forbid) start going out in this beautiful Emerald City and show interest in things I genuinely care about: art, theatre, people, nature, beer, etc. Clayton and I are tossing around the idea of joining the Seattle Astronomical society which meets something like twice a month at our very own Greenlake since Clayton is now the proud owner of a telescope (another Value Village gem) through which we’ve viewed the moon on a few occasions. We’ve also agreed to start camping on a semi-regular basis. I don’t know what that looks like during the winter months, but I’m confident Clayton won’t lead me to my grave. … It’s exciting. It’s not much, but the possibilities seem endless, to me. I feel like I’m a different person than I was two years ago. You know, before I got fired and unemployed, and fucking depressed.
These past few months have been slow and steady, a gradual crawl out from under my rock and hopefully will continue to be prosperous. I’m so happy for all of my friends; unspeakably happy for what everyone has accomplished, genuinely giddy that the ball just seems to be starting to roll for some very very exciting futures, pleased as punch to see Alaska friends again, so so so proud to just know the motherfuckers who are making new art everyday in Spokane, and well-wishing for those abroad, waiting for fantastic stories, and am just JAZZED on the possibilities Autumn holds for everyone. I love you all so much, and am proud to know you.
That being said, Clayton and I are planning a housewarming party for sometime in the beginning of October and would like it to be a time and date that works well for as many people as possible. So, my guess is if you’ve read this far, you’re my friend and I want you to be there. [I'm looking at you, Spokane. Alaska...] When works?
