That’s the question that everyone has been asking. And I get it – It’s quite a leap going from Minnesota to California. The two states are vastly different.
But it’s funny: I hear over and over again about people leaving to live somewhere new for a period of time, only to find their way back home.
So, let’s start with this: I loved my time out in San Francisco. I feel grateful that I’m able to say that I lived in such a beautiful city for a period of time. I have fond memories. And I love the fact that I can go visit and there will always be a sense of familiarity for me. That’s something that a lot of people can’t say and I never want to take that for granted.
But if you’ve been following me on my blog for a while, you’ll remember why I decided to leave San Francisco. It wasn’t for one reason – It was due to a lot of different things and ultimately it became clear that I was looking for something else. And somewhere along the way in making that decision I was guided back home.
So back to the original question – What’s it been like to live back in Minnesota? Well, it’s been really nice actually! Thanks for asking. 😉
It
GETTING TO ENJOY SEASONS AGAIN
For a while there, I would joke and say that I made a HUGE mistake moving back to Minnesota during those frigid winter months. But even then, it’s been nice to experience seasons again. I didn’t realize how much I missed that until I got home.
2019 will be the first time in a LONG time that I’ll be able to thoroughly enjoy my two favorite seasons: summer and fall.
In Minnesota, I love the summer heat. It’s so different from San Francisco. Even on a warm day in SF, you’ll want to have layers with you because it will most likely
And even though I’m exchanging sprawling green vineyards for industrial breweries, I’m okay with that. It’s always good to change things up.
And the lakes – There’s nothing better than going out with a group of friends on a boat to enjoy the sunshine, a swim, and good company. Or heck, even better: Heading up to a cabin on a lake for the weekend.
If I had to change anything? The mosquitoes. I can do without the mosquitoes. They can go.
And in the fall, I love the crisp air and how the leaves slowly change color right before
The ciders come out to play, the football season is back in full swing, bonfires are had, and there’s an energy in the air that I can’t explain. I love that.
PROXIMITY TO OLD FRIENDS AND FAMILY
I met some great people out in San Francisco. Some who I have fond memories of, and one or two that have turned into lifelong friends. But in my time away (almost five years!), I missed a lot of things back home. Like getting to watch my little nieces growing up. So it’s been such a blessing to get to know them more now that I’m back home.
Plus, just being near family and close friends again means the world to me. I missed all of them SO much. I’m close with my family, and I have two of the very best friends a girl could ask for. And so that’s all to say that I’m feeling very loved and myself back in Minnesota. Which is exactly what I needed.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES
And last, but not least, are some awesome opportunities that popped up when I got home. Some that most likely would have never been available to me if I was still living in San Francisco.
Like looking to buy my first home, which I’ve really excited about! I’m being super picky, but I’m looking forward to the day that I stumble upon the right one. And in the process of wanting to buy a house, I decided to get my real estate license, which has been another wonderful accomplishment that I feel very proud of. 🙂
So, I found my way back home this past year. And as noted above, it’s been an incredibly refreshing experience for me. In a lot of ways, I needed it. And I’m a big believer in timing and trusting where life leads you. And so here I am, open to whatever is next.
But for right now, I’m feeling settled, which is nice for a change.
Before signing off, I wanted to extend a quick thank you to everyone who is still following me here. I took on a lot when I got back to Minnesota. A new job, house hunting, and getting my real estate license, all while trying to maintain my blog. It got to be a lot for me, and so I had to pause a few things for a bit while I found a new groove.
Thankfully, I’m back at it! It might be a slow go for a bit, but I’m hoping things will get back to normal soon. Regardless, thank you again for sticking with me. 🙂
Let’s go places,
Sarah
Have you lived somewhere else other than home? If so, what did you learn from your experience? Share with us in the comment section below.
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Sarah!! I loved every little bit of this post. We live in the Bay Area and are about to make a move to Texas. This was actually really encouraging to hear all these things you like about the move out CA, and it makes me even more excited for the change. It’s all about perspective- isn’t it?! Thank you tons for publishing this- I clung on to every word! And good luck with the home buying process! SO exciting.
Yes, it’s all about perspective! And thank you! Good luck with your move too! 🙂