out & about | a year in minneapolis

 

A year ago today I was sitting in our new apartment in a totally foreign city surrounded by piles of unpacked boxes, wondering if we had made a good decision or if we were just plain delusional. A few days prior, Heather & I had packed everything we owned into a moving truck, hitched Heather’s car to the back of it, said our tearful goodbyes, & headed far & away from Florida. Moving the way we did was one of the craziest journeys I’ve ever embarked on. While we did have emergency funds saved, neither of us had a job waiting for us here in Minneapolis. Neither of us had set foot inside the apartment we'd signed a year’s lease on. Neither of us had ever seen or traveled through the Midwest before, much less Minnesota. We didn’t know a single soul here, but we picked this place to call our new home. It was a bit rocky at first, but looking back at the situation a year later, I'm extremely thankful we made the decision we did. Minneapolis has not failed to disappoint.

These are a couple of snapshots from around our home. There's still a lot of work to do around here as far as decorating, but it feels more like home each day. Even though it’s only been a year, I’m pretty sure I'm in love with this city. I love the seasons (a luxury I had forgotten about after living in Florida for over a decade!). I love all the little shops & restaurants. I love how the people are friendly enough but simultaneously don’t invade your personal space bubble (introvert blessings). I love how everyone here seizes the opportunity to be outside when it's sunny. I love how close I am to everything I need, i.e. shopping, food, etc. I love how bike-friendly it is. I love how accepting people are of me & my partner. I just love it. 

Conclusion: Go with your gut. Even if your gut is telling you to pack up your life & get out of Dodge, do that. It won't be easy, but it will pay off in the end. 

xoxo,

-m.e.

P.S. Tips on moving.