A year ago today, I was at the airport in Sacramento picking up Paul. We were about to embark on the adventure of our lives because both of our lives were about to change drastically, but for the better. I was moving to Minnesota for love.
Yes, I was taking a huge risk, which some people probably thought was stupid or foolish. I had quit my stable job with bosses who appreciated me and my work and likely would have kept me around for as long as I wanted or needed. I enjoyed working with them too. They were very supportive, funny, and all around good people. But, something even better was in store for my life. I knew I had to take a chance. It felt right deep in my soul.
The move to Minnesota
We had set aside three nights to move my stuff and ourselves to Minnesota from Sacramento. It took us almost five. You can read the moving to Minnesota saga here:
- Road Trip to Minnesota, Day 1
- Road Trip to Minnesota, Day 2
- Road Trip to Minnesota Day 3 &4
- Road Trip to Minnesota Day 5
Slowly, we settled into life with each other. There were small things we had to get used to, like sharing a bed with someone else. When you’ve spent your entire life sleeping alone, it can take some time to get used to sharing a bed. Now, it’s weird to go to bed without someone lying next to me. I noticed that the other day.
Life in Minnesota
Our comfort with each other isn’t a neglectful one that popular culture likes to portray about couples. It’s a settling into a happy life. Maybe it helps that both of us are in our 30s. OK, I’m almost 40, but my point is that we’re both fairly well adjusted adults who try to keep our egos in check. Something that makes for a boring romantic comedy.
Since moving to Minnesota, I’ve learned much about my newly adopted home. It’s full of interesting things to do and see, lots of fairs, festivals, and markets, as well as the second most popular state fair in the U.S. I’ve also survived one of the most brutal winters in the past 50 years. Overall, I’ve realized that you have to enjoy each moment you can. Life is short, so don’t waste it.
The past and the future
Two years ago, or even five years ago, I had no idea that my life would change so dramatically. I was utterly single and weary of dating. Dating is not for the faint of heart. You have to be able to take rejection much like a salesperson. Except, it’s not some product or service people are rejecting, it’s you. But, as painful as it was, it was for the best. It took a long time but I found the best guy for me.
Over the past year, we’ve shared many laughs and a few tears. We’ve grown closer with each passing day and I have never been so happy. Yes, that’s cliche, but it’s the truth.
I can’t wait to see what adventures we’ll have.