It started out as two trips. First to a high school reunion in October. Then back again for Thanksgiving.
“Why drive all those miles twice?” my sister asked.
Hmmm. Good point.
So I mulled it over. I could bring my computer and work remotely as I’ve done before. My clients are elsewhere anyway so what does another 950 miles mean to them?
Sold.
What was supposed to be a long vacation from Dallas, became a righting of the ship and a way to repurpose my life. Every 20 years or so I seem to do this. Working backwards, 20 years ago I was in Minneapolis looking to relocate after the kids went off to college. Now, 20 years later (almost to the day)I am looking to make a similar move from Dallas and on to Tucson.
Why didn’t I say “back to Tucson?” Well, even if I am closing the circle that started here and extended to Seattle and on to Minnesota, it is a relocation, not a return. That’s because I am better prepared with the skills and tools I didn’t have when I left.
But I digress. This is supposed to be about a sabbatical.
Like what academics do to recharge in the midst of their careers, so I am taking the time to rethink and recharge in my new/old hometown of Tucson. Away from the familiar. Away from the memories. Away from the heartbreak I can’t seem to outrun.
So, just what exactly am I doing? For one, I am getting my ducks in a row for the inevitable move. Pam (regular readers remember her) actually kept me in Dallas a few years longer than I had first intended. So, couple the financial and logistical into the emotional and the creative and you have a sabbatical.
And just what makes up this sabbatical? Here’s my list:
- Reconnecting with old friends and acquaintances over breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Spending time with my sister and brother and their families.
- Walking many miles with Sally.
- Riding the bike and finding shops and clubs who also love the sport.
- Discover (and rediscover) neighborhoods and parts of town I should know.
- Planning and looking ahead. Deciding on whether to relocate.
- Sleep. Recharge. Heal. Time away from the norm helps heal a broken heart.
As each day passes, I feel more healed and alive. And directed. As the saying goes, “time heals all wounds.” Or as my dear “brother,” David, reminded me earlier today, “deep scars build strong individuals.”
Coming to Tucson has also opened my eyes to a culture I had forgotten. I feel renewed (at least for now). At first I was struggling to stay here. Now, as each day passes, I feel more at home and see my Texas life becoming more of my past.
My sister said it best when she told me: “this phase of your life should be about you as you start out.” And then as things unfold maybe the time will be right for more. Until then, I need to build a relationship with me.
Hmmm. I seem to have heard that come out of the mouths of others in reference to themselves.
My turn.
Relentless
