04 February 2008

note to self: finding a new box



as i mentioned, we are moving at the end of spring to a whole new life. we visited the land of wonder and these winter scenes were straight out of a farmland fairy tale. i cannot wait to see what idaho is like in the summertime. lots of open land, blankets of fresh green grass and friendly faces out and about. dan got an offer to work at a law firm in idaho. it seems hard to believe that life as i know it will all change so soon, but i couldn't be more proud of my man and am getting excited for the adventures of the unknown.

am not sure why the decision to leave home was so difficult this time. it is easy to fear something unfamiliar. perhaps it's because we've done it once before and know how it feels to be miles away; the pros and the cons. after lots of back and forths and lists and brainstorming, we had to simply decide what we felt was good for us. and this opportunity will be unbelievably good, if not golden.

not to say it won't be hard. like we're breaking out of our comfort zone, our pretty little box. i feel like our box is so cozy, it finally has drapes and wallpaper and cookies baking in the oven. it seems like just when you have figured out how great it is to live in the situation you are living in, it is time to move out. move up. move onward. even though you know your new box may have better amenities and nice neighbors, it is still out there, a cold stranger. how will i learn to like a new box? and what will happen to our beloved old box? even the things we hate about our box will become charming at a distance. perspective of old situations come standard with a rosy tint. (even after quitting a job you hate, you suddenly will miss your silly co-workers and the stupid mandatory hawaiian shirt days.) i wonder how we'll like it there and if we'll become comfortable in our new situation, if we'll even find a box to settle in and call ours. i hope so. i hope we're not wandering about and complaining and missing our old box so much we can't move on. i hope we make the most of it. and land with our feet on the ground. most likely our new box will be different, more spacious, with rounded sides or peaked at the top. hopefully we can find the best in it. hopefully we'll realize we have each other. and that will always stay the same. and that's the most important thing in life. hopefully our new box will have cell phone reception, in cases of extreme loneliness. maybe our new box will have a yard and some trees and a tire swing. i've never had a tire swing. i'll still have my diaries, my pens and my paper, my books and my framed art, my old yellow lamp and my wrapping paper and my collage board and my family photos and my dishes. i can still be me in my new box. maybe i can even figure out how to be a whole new me. in a whole new comfort zone. maybe i can make drapes for it too. and i'll have my kitchen-aid, so i'll definitely have to make a batch of cookies. yeah, i think a new comfort zone doesn't have to be all bad. maybe i can make the sun shine in. maybe the new box can bring out the best in me.





after telling family and friends about our big move, we have (thankfully) felt encouragement. we received a whole bunch of lovely congratulatory gifts and cards and happy phone calls. no one has been weepy, everyone has been unbelievably supportive. we now have an idaho road map, a full volume set of the history of idaho, a beautiful book featuring the art of an idaho native, and a box full of idaho spuds. i have only became more excited with so many cheering us on. people believing in you is better than a tall glass of milk in the middle of the night. it feels so good to know that people think, or know, that we can survive, perhaps thrive, outside of our little box. plus, it's only a three hour drive from home which means a necessary shopping spree or much needed family get-together is still completely do-able.


i would love to hear any inspirational stories of moving, organizational packing, living life in a new box or finding bliss in a small town. (please keep any horror stories to yourself, am in a fragile state after all this bravery gusto.)

43 comments:

One Love Photo said...

So off to Idaho eh? It looks cold at the moment but the rivers are wonderful in the summer. You gotta love a good old Idaho Spud (standard or chocolate). I love moving because I love fresh starts!

Tiffany said...

This made me tear up. I'm feeling the same things right now getting ready for a move across the country. Best luck to you and congratulations on all the great times ahead!

Courtney said...

Hello! I've never commented on your blog before but I really enjoy reading it. I was actually born and raised in Idaho! From what you have said, I'm guess that maybe you are moving to the Idaho Falls area? I lived there for a while and wasn't there under the best circumstances, but I will tell you that if you are into doing things outdoors it's amazing. During the summer camping, hiking, boating, white water rafting, all those things are amazing. Definitely try to go up into the Yellowstone area often, it helps out with the drab sometimes. At least that was part of my savior.

Good luck, and I'm sure you will love it!

Sarah said...

Ooh Idaho sounds lovely! Yes moving is scary! But the good thing is, you are not alone and 3 hours is not far from your loved ones at all. I think sometimes we get too safe, and find it hard to breakaway. It's good to take risks. I'm a big believer in following your heart. And right now, it's something I need to heed myself. Best wishes!

Travelin'Oma said...

Your specialty is decorating your box. That's what the rest of us learn from you. You have the knack of creating a beautiful life!

Anonymous said...

Idaho is so beautiful. I loved my time there. Congratulations on your new adventure.

The Doughracle said...

Dear Marta,
I happened to marry my husband while he was in the middle of a 3 year long rotational programme, and since then we have lived in 3 different countries, and often lived in many different locations across the US during those in-between-location times. Making a new place your new home can be hard, but it can also be wonderful. And I can honestly say that I have loved and enjoyed everywhere I have lived for the past 2 years (and it's been a lot of places!). The beginning weeks are hard as you become familiar with new surroundings, new friends, new job, new everything, but be glad of the opportunity to define yourself as you and not by the house you live in, the things you own, or what you do. You are you because of everything inside you (not everything outside of you). I have enjoyed so much reading your thoughts as I've read your blog from afar and know at this time of change for you will come new thoughts, new realisations, new adventures and new loves. Enjoy the journey! I wish you all the best and look forward to hearing all about it on your blog.
Your blogging friend
Nicola

Christie said...

You are going to take ID by storm. I can't wait to hear about all your new digs, new friends, and new state!

Robin said...

Seriously, first thing I find out when I wake up this morning...is that both you and Ali are moving? Salt Lake will just not be the same (even though I've never met either of you :).
But congrats on the move and your new adventure. Nothing but good can come!

Deidra said...

As a small-town Idaho girl, let me tell you that life isn't so bad. And I'm quite sure that wherever you'll be (from looking at the pictures) will most likely have cell phone reception! I was thinking a small town outside of IF from those pictures too! All will be well!

Jake said...

The best thing that ever happened to me was made in Idaho...so it can't be all bad! You will take the spuds and whip them into something new and delicious! Can't wait to hear all about it...

Anonymous said...

i have a new box. and i love it. it's in a foreign country i now call home. with a fella i love. so many opportunites. so many adventures. so many great people. and you can always go back home and visit some aspects of the old box. it's like the best of both worlds. the old and the new together. i wish you and dan all the best. ganbatte kudasai!

Anonymous said...

dear Marta,

I moved from my country 2 years ago. Now I'm a love emigrant which is not so bad :)
I live in denmark. And when I came here I didn't knew a word in danish and the only person I could talk to was my beloved husband. Which isn't so bad too.
I thought that I'll miss my work, my town, my favourite table at the cafe... but you know what? I don't miss all of that. I remeber them and smile. That's a good thoughts and I'm glad I have them :)
Now I have my "own" place downtown where I love coffee, the best bench and even "my" tree to sit under on warm summer days.
I'm happy here. And my home now is here. Together with HIM.
You'll see the same will be with you too :)
New adventures and discoveries will overcome the blues for your old box :)

Katie said...

My little sister lived in Clarkston, UT (middle of nowhere) in a trailer 14 hours from me and 14 hours from our parents.

There were no movie theater, shopping mall or restaurants. The closest grocery store was a 30 minute drive.

Her husband worked 10 hour days every day.


She ended up LOVING her time in the wilderness. She could think, breathe, and spend time alone with her newborn baby. She made friends with a neighbor's cow and I think she'll consider her year in Clarkston with VERY fond memories.

You'll love it.

KELLY said...

so happy to hear your words as you dip your toe in the next big adventure pool...such an exciting time ahead for you + dan (congrats on the job by the way!)

can't wait to follow your thoughts as you make the move + embrace that new box with your loved one. xxx

ali said...

And so we are quite on the same page again, little miss. I'm pretty sure that I will not like my next box (the actual living quarters) as much as I like mine now, but I am excited to step into the life I'll lead in it. And out of it, too. :)

I'm looking forward to your posts about organization and how to pack boxes and what music to listen to while I do. You always know how to make a dreaded task seem charming.

Cheers to us! Cheers to you! You'll be my favorite Idaho spud. Err, bud.

Christina said...

As a former Idaho dweller, I have to say there is good to be found there! Idaho will not know what hit them with the creativity, style, and charm personified as Marta. I'm excited to hear about your new adventures, but also feel a little disappointment that you won't be in SLC making it just a little bit more awesome with your presence.

Lane said...

Congratulations Marta and Dan! I've made several moves away from home (increasingly further away from home...) by myself. It is so much friendlier in a new place with two. You and Dan will have each other to share your new adventures with, and who is more fun than you two?

Utah will miss you. Idaho will love you!

Anonymous said...

I spent many summers vacationing in Idaho (what? Idaho isn't a vacation destination? hmph--we liked to fish, camp, fish some more, etc). It's gorgeous in the summer, absolutely gorgeous. As far as your box, I don't know what to tell you because I'm sure you are going to be just fine--just HAVE FUN enjoying the time spent looking for a new one. Keep calm. Remember to keep your sense of humor along the way. When packing, remember--there can never be too much paper/cushioning/protection. U-haul sells boxes of packing paper that is money well spent, it was worth every penny and I still use it every year when I unwrap & re-wrap ornaments. Oh, and take your time with the packing and don't make hasty decisions then, like "Oh I never use this old thing", throw it out then move into your new place and discover the perfect place for that old thing. Wait until you get where you're going before doing that sort of throwing out/donating/etc. Best of luck to you.

Kerry said...

My sister moved from Portland, OR, to a tiny town in the wilds of western NY. She started a wine club with just 5 people. And now there is a waiting list with more than 75 people on it for every tasting she throws! She started her own social circle and met people who had also left big cities for small-town life. Good luck.

alyson. said...

Idaho!! how exciting. what part of Idaho? dlb is from McCall, a pretty resort town near Tamarack Ski Resort. on our venture across the country, we stayed at his parents house in mid-July, and it was gorgeous. huckleberry picking, cliff diving, hikes, and horse back riding.
I wish you all the best of luck miss Marta! and I can't wait to hear more.

Who Sees the Seven... said...

How very inspirational to read as I am also about to leave my box of 5+ years, for half a year and do something new in a new box in a new country. Your words about the support of friends and family really struck me the most. It is wonderful knowing that all who know you best TRULY believe that you can do this and though they will miss you, they admire, appreciate and understand why you are doing this. As I question my own move it was helpful to read AGAIN why I have decided to do this in the first place; for all the reasons you listed.

Jen said...

I know exactly how you feel. I left my family and friends behind in Denver and moved to Chicago with my husband. Everyone asked why are you moving to Chicago??? But now 5 years later we LOVE it here and our new friends. This actually feels like home more than Denver did. It's takes faith, trust and a good attitude.

Ashlee said...

I'm an Idahoan! Born here and everything! It grows on you. I promise. The winters can get cold in your area, but the summers are the opposite to the extreme. Very hot. But, if you like farmland, and open spaces, and super nice people...you'll LOVE Idaho.

Though I was born here in the exact same town I live in now, I have moved more times than you can count on your fingers and toes. Though I hate moving and leaving friends behind, the good ones are still there for me, and the new ones I've met in the process are wonderful too! What I love about Idaho is that I get to have the small town feel, but the big town isn't but a hop, skip, and a jump away. And as much as I wanted to GET OUT OF HERE when I was a teenager, I'm right back where I started. And I couldn't be happier. Wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
Good luck with your move! And hubby's new job!

KJ said...

tips: start packing NOW, all the little things you don't really need or use very often. Label your boxes clearly and specifically. Don't pack a giant box full of all heavy things (put heavy things in smaller boxes) or you and your moving team will pay for it later.

I think you will like Idaho. We've never felt more welcome, more appreciated, more part of an actual sense of community. I like the farmland around us and the little mom-and-pop places. Oh...softball is a big deal around here in the Summer. Tons of leagues for everyone.

{amy k.} said...

Yea for a new adventure... you seem to be the type to enjoy creating and finding- so you'll have no problem creating new memories and finding new friends. As far as the packing goes- get rid of anything you don't love or use often. We moved from UT to FL and I am still going through boxes and throwing away garbabage bags full! So toss it- you'll feel better! And, look for free packing boxes on Craigslist... we didn't buy a single box or packing paper- I got it all for free! I tried to label pretty specifically too... instead of just "kitchen" put something like "kitchen- glasses and mugs" So if you need to find something quick you don't have to dig through every box. And finally- once you get there take the first day to relax and explore and the next 2-3 to lock yourself in and unpack... get it all done so you don't have to worry about it hanging over your head. Then you can get out and enjoy your new home! GOOD LUCK!

Anonymous said...

my most favorite place that i've lived is the small town that housed the university i attended for four years. i can rave for hours about why small towns are so fantastic if you'd like. just let me know :)

jamieanne said...

If you end up anywhere near those sweet mini horses I see in those photos, you're bound to have a fabulous time.

love.boxes said...

Oh Marta! I'm so excited for you! I love Idaho! It's gorgeous there and you and Dan are so into outdoor opportunities that you will find it heaven. Will you be near Idaho Falls? Rigby? (I know some fun places that way) My fun cousins live up that way and they have had the greatest life and done so many fun things. Plus it's close enough to get home for the holidays and things. Housing is a pretty great situation up there recently too. I think it's going to be wonderful! You better get a big enough place because your family will be trippin' up there to see you all the time when they see how fun it is. Some of my most fun memories of growing up are from the great times I had as a kid up there with my cousins! It's going to be fabulous!!

Barb McMahon and Alan Mailloux said...

It's important to pack a box of the things you will need as soon as you get to your new home - toilet paper, hand soap, tea fixings, aspirin... whatever life would be unbearable without.

And remember - all your internet friends are coming with you!

Jane Flanagan said...

I emigrated all by my lonesome 4 years ago. It still excites me to think about the epic adventure I'm on... how seemingly arbitrary it sometimes seems, and how completely meant-to-be at other times.

There's something so open-concept about starting out again. Not that I think you should, or do, want to change. But just that chance to reinvent and renew, to make new friends and explore new streets, hills and skyscapes.

You'll have an amazing time.

Carly said...

i love idaho! My husband and I dream of owning a ranch up there...what an exciting adventure!

Anonymous said...

I have never had to move- but i really hope it all goes well! I've never lived more than 15 mins away from my family (ALL of my family)- I hope to have your strength one day!

allison said...

adventures with mini horses in the mix? =perfection

Unknown said...

wow. i can't believe you're moving.. congrats on starting the next part of your life! it's nice to see an end in sight.

good luck on your new adventures.. when you move that is..

brooke said...

One of my favorite blogs (besides yours!) is Kristi Brooke at www.everythingispink.blogspot.com. On her sidebar is a link called "my thoughts on moving." She has some great tips. You should check it out.

Michelle @ Twig said...

marta i must comment as i moved back to utah after having lived in idaho for 2 years. it is different, i will admit, but it is depicted dreamily in this winter scenes. it is small and cozy and quiet in a peaceful and reflective way. you will find yourself surrounded by unexpected beauty and gratitude. it is a simpler lifestyle. people are humble and kind and willing and hard working. you will LOVE the summertime, the dense fields will shine against the blue sky and you will be reminded of what true happiness is. you will snap this and that and everything around you because it will awe you with is naturalistic grandeur. go to mesa falls, go to monkey rock, go to yellowstone, go for drives, try reeds dairy chocolate milk, eat everything huckleberry you can especially huckleberry shakes (mmm yum!) and in those sad moments when you miss home, remember that once you leave idaho you will feel the same way about it. it will sit in a special part of your heart. it's a unique opportunity to live there and i hope you truly find joy in it!

karla said...

Hooray for Idaho! I grew up in Shelley, which looks pretty close to where you'll be moving. There is something special about the open fields, down-to-earth people, and beautiful harvest sunsets in Idaho. Congratulations and good luck!
And PS - for someone with a sweet tooth, the Reed's Dairy Chocolate Milk really is a must try! Their ice cream is great, too. :)

karla said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
rachel @ blackeiffel said...

Best of luck for your new box. The places I've visited in Idaho are amazingly beautiful and serene. I am excited to hear about your new adventures, when are you moving?

{natalie} said...

marta, you will do wonderfully i'm sure. i can't imagine you will have any trouble making friends and loving your know life. good luck!!

donna said...

Congrats to Dan on the job and all the best to you both on your new adventure. Can't wait to hear all about it!

Unknown said...

Holy comments! Okay if you ever get to mine... You should know this but Dave and I think moving away is the BEST thing ever for your marriage. We have grown so much closer because we are alone. It will be nice to only be 3 hours from home, not 10. You are going to be great there. you will gain lots of friends because you are so like-able! And congrats on the job! Life is going to be so strange after graduation! I really can't imagine what it's going to be like!

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