12 December 2012

A New Place, A New Beginning

"Never give up!
The plan for your life far exceeds the circumstances of today." ~ author unknown



Hello readers!

It's certainly been a while since my last post.  I've been busy.  I have had to move from my home, my sanctuary of 21 years into a new space in a new city.  I am still in the Bay Area, though, and while the move itself was bittersweet, time consuming and back breaking (my lower back is still in recovery from the packing, lifting, arranging), I am pleased to announce that I am settled into my small but cozy room and have been exploring the new community I now live in and write from.  I've found three new cafes that are close by (within walking distance; how convenient is that!).  I can walk and bike almost everywhere, which is what I need as my body has been begging for some exercise. Ha!

I'm also quite close to a major bus line, the downtown area, a beautiful public library, the post office, and two major grocery chains!  Lot's of places to eat, lots of tree-lined streets, folks on bikes, and quite a few businesses including a large nursery with a beautiful arrangement of Christmas trees.  There's even a place that repairs old typewriters.  Yes, I am exploring and expanding my horizons! I am beginning again!

It was hard leaving the place I'd called home for so very long.  I had grown quite attached to it and had been resisting the idea of letting go.  But the Universe was telling me (although I was not willing to listen at first) that it was time to move on.  I am thankful that I had a place to move on to, a friend that opened her space to me without conditions, who accepted me and where I'm at in this life, and who has been very generous and kind.  The Universe was and is taking care of me, y'all!  Even though some circumstances haven't changed, I can feel the winds of positive change blowing in my direction.  I am eternally grateful for all that I have and all that will come.  I am open to new possibilities.  I am open to new opportunities.  Open to new relationships.  Open to the challenges that will surely come with the understanding that they will bring more of life's lessons and growth.  Life. Is. Precious.

I want to give thanks to those who were instrumental in helping me get to where I am today, who positively encouraged me to see this as a good thing, a new path, a new journey, continued to believe in me and my dreams: my beautiful and loving son, Zeke, my friends, Latisha, Lisa, Angela, Nyla, Indira, Claudia, London, Dolores, Ralph, Brian, Aimee and Jenn; my cousin Victor, who constantly called to check in on me (love you for that, cuz); to Hadiza for the wonderful massage after a hard move; to folks who offered their time even if I didn't take them up on it (it's the thought that truly counted!) Melia, Larisa, Needa, Tiffany (Brooke)...you all mean so much to me and I am fortunate, so very fortunate to have you in my life!  To Elaine for always having a party or event to go to; you are quite the socialite, queen, and I appreciate the company you keep!  And more importantly, to Nakisha for keeping me off the streets!  So invaluable, you are, girlfriend!

I intend to pay it forward...it is the only way to live, to be, to love.  As this holiday season approaches and this year comes to an end, I am excited about my future and those who will be in it.  I am looking forward to this new beginning, new words, stories, experiences to continue on with my writing practice (and the upcoming book anthology I will be featured in!), and coming to 55 years around the sun!

Let's continue to build community.  Let's continue to be there for each other in whatever way/capacity that we can.  Let's continue to give, be and spread love.  Let's live each and everyday with purpose! Plant new seeds!
Coming to you from a new place and a new beginning with much gratitude and love! I'm not giving up!  I'm still here!

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