My children are grown, well almost. My parents and two sisters live in California. At some point after my ex-husband left, I realized that I could live anywhere - and decided the best thing would be to move back to California where I lived for 9 years with my "family of origin."
Since my marriage fell apart, two wonderful cats have joined our family - Franki and Rusty. They don't know it yet, but they will soon be California Cats. And I met a wonderful man earlier this year - so the four of us are setting out next Monday (11/5/2012) in a rented RV to drive from Chicago to Leucadia, CA, to the home that we bought in July. Our cats must travel in style!!!
Last Saturday we went to the RV Rental place to check out the equipment. It's massive! I am a bit nervous about driving it, especially hearing about the need for wide turns. But we will just try to drive from here to there in a straight line! We are in the process of figuring out what items we can take with us in the camper - definitely artwork, some kitchen appliances and other essentials, and some wine.
My last day at work will be this Friday. The farewells started on Sunday, with what my son referred to as "my big fat mom's Greek going away party" at The Parthenon (not Pantheon) in Greektown, Chicago. It was a lovely evening with great friends whom I will truly miss. There was tons of leftover food; I packed the chicken and pork and Monday morning made pork and chicken stock. I plan to have an "empty out the refrigerator" potluck ongoing thru the weekend. Last night I had a going away dinner at Fiorentino's with several co-workers - another memorable evening. I am so lucky to have so many wonderful people in my life!
I am asked continually if I'm freaking out - the answer is yes and no. Part of me is so excited and can't wait to go; another part of me is in constant OMG mode wondering HOW I'm going to get everything done! I have a lot of packing to complete but have the buffer of knowing that I will need to come back here when this townhouse is sold or rented, so whatever does not come with me now will come with professional movers at a later date.
Moving with the cats has me quite anxious - they are the reason for the RV, but driving an RV cross country has been on my bucket list for years and I'm really looking forward to the experience.
Now that I have this started, I have to go and *pack* and wait for trick or treaters to arrive.
Happy Halloween!
