A view of Salt Lake City.

It’s looking like adventure is in store for this introvert! Starting next month, Utah will be my new home. And before you worry, NO. We are NOT selling the farm. I couldn’t. But I’ve been offered a career opportunity that’s simply too amazing, too wonderful to pass up. So, I’m channeling the gypsy spirit of my father, who lived in Japan, California, & New Mexico, transplanted from his New England roots, to find the courage for the big move. New places offer fresh perspectives & unique life experiences.

For a girl like me, raised on Laura Ingalls Wilder & who loved Bierstadt paintings, the West & all that it conjures up has long featured prominently in my mind. Growing up, I often felt jealous of my older siblings who had explored national parks & distinctly American landmarks. Actually, I’ve seen more of Europe than I have of the United States. And thus, I feel incredibly excited by the prospect of a new adventure, exploring a new part of the country. The stunning views of 3 bordering mountain ranges certainly help!

View of the Salt Lake City basin, surrounded by three mountain ranges. 

Where will be the destination? In the Salt Lake City basin, near Big and Little Cottonwood mountains. So, there will be all kinds of new & different pictures, natural environments, & hangout places to explore, & my hope is to bring you along on this introvert’s journey. Mid-October will bring a trip to Park City, & Sundance is only an hour’s drive away! There’s the Great Salt Flats, Salt Lake itself, & at least 5 national parks within driving distance. With fall on the horizon & winter to follow, there will be spectacular pictures to take. I think of Terry Tempest Williams & her book on this area.

And there will be more to come about the new career opportunity! Of course, I’ll be sad to leave family, friends, & colleagues here in New Hampshire, but that’s the benefit of social media. We can always stay in connection, as I will continue to write about my quirks as an introvert & the coping strategies employed. The big world has grown smaller, thanks to the internet.

A different angle of Salt Lake City.

The most daunting thing, right now, is the nuts & bolts of a gargantuan move. Thankfully, family & friends are hugely supportive, as this will take a big push & a lot of effort. BUT. I’ve prayed about every major milestone in my life. And I know this will open up a new chapter. Things are all falling into place with ease, & that’s how I know that something is meant to be. Fated. Destined. In the stars.

Or, even… In the mountains.

New types of wildflowers by the Wasatch mountains.

Panoramic view of the basin.