One phrase I’ve repeated often: Time is weird. On one hand, we have been back home for nearly a year. We are happy here, settling into new routines and reestablishing connections with family and friends. My commute of just over one hour (without traffic) is beautiful and not too long. On the other hand, it’s hard to wrap my head around the fact that we have been here nearly a year. Our home warranty expires in mid-July, so we are paying close attention to things that need to be repaired.



More and more of our possessions are filling the space. We are finding a daily flow in how we move in, out and around the house. The light fixtures that we have cultivated over the years are making their way to installation all over the house. There are a few more left, but as the Hubby does the installations, he has had plenty to do and a long list of tasks still to work through.

The backyard is slowly coming together. The big achievement is the much anticipated gazebo that we purchased in 2022 for the Ukiah backyard before we knew we were moving. It is quite the behemoth and poor Hubby has moved the heavy pieces multiple times.

He also repainted the wrought iron swing and reassembled it.




We designed, and he put together, a cat fence so that our kitties can safely be outside but cannot escape.

Despite all the lovely personalizations we have manage to accomplish, we still feel like we are here temporarily. It’s the white walls! I am not a fan, never have been.
It didn’t make sense to try and paint during the wet season, and then other things took priority. Our new house is nice, very nice, and even with a good amount of our artwork and photos on the walls, it still feels sterile and impersonal. The fact that we are not completely unpacked probably adds to my feelings.


Unexamined boxes take up space in most of the closets as well. I know, it takes time. And honestly, some things will ultimately remain as storage. But I am hoping that during summer break, I can deal with the pesky ones taking up regular floor space.
Our gratitude is huge. Thanks to all those who have helped us get here. xoxoxo