Relocation

[3894]

Originally Posted by €uroMeinke

what made it easier, what difficulties didn’t you expect. What was it like to build a new social network in your new location? Any thought or wisdom would be welcome.

What made it easier: joining what I couldn't beat. For example, the Wisconsin climate is a challenge to me who lived most of my first 30 years in the Bay Area. I try to get involved in outdoor wintery activities - Nordic skiing, ice skating, snow shoeing but always drawing the line at curling and any sport involving animal death and state licensing. Inside, I have growing potted spring bulbs. I also wear bright colors.

I think this idea can be applied to pretty much anything you hate about wherever you move. Join what you can't beat.

What I didn't expect: the food differences.

How to build a new social network: Tom and I are in the process of selling our place in rural Wisconsin and moving to Madison, a little over 100 miles away. It's just time for a change and time to be less isolated.

Tom is very social but he is not well. I am a good conversationalist but I am not much of a joiner. I am going to try to find congenial activities and see if that route works. I am excited for the new adventure and scared that I'm too old.

One of my biggest fears as an introvert over 50, is that I will be lonely in my new environment, that it will be hard for me to find those I can connect to and do the things that will make that happen. Anything you can say about that would be most appreciated.

I don't have answers but you and I will be going through the same stuff. I'll post about it if you will.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Originally Posted by 3894

What I didn't expect: the food differences.

For example...?

[3894]

Snowflake, I'd love to meet you! Just let me know when you're coming.

Originally Posted by SzczerbiakManiac

For example...?

Oh, SM, many's the time I have pined for decent takeout Chinese food. Or a non-Pillsbury croissant, the real kind. I honestly try not to be too Green Acres about this but sometimes ...

If you're familiar with Garrison Keillor's Lake Woebegon, that's pretty much where I live. Suffice it to say that I've been to more than my share of church basement potlucks. I like these people okay; I do not like their Chung King chow mein noodles-Cream of Celery Soup-Miracle Whip food much.

Here is an actual recipe that actually tastes good. You will have to suspend your disbelief.

A package of frozen meatballs
A can of Cream of Mushroom Soup (Have I lost you yet?)
A can of button mushrooms, including the liquid
and …..
Half a jar of Cheese Whiz! (At least I didn’t say Spam.)

Dump the meatballs in the crock pot, mix together the other ingredients and pour them over. Cook on low, 2-4 hours. Serve over noodles or rice or potatoes, if you like.

t always seems like a great idea, an adventure.

Yes. That's the attitude I'm trying to maintain.

[Stan4dSteph]

Originally Posted by 3894

Yes. That's the attitude I'm trying to maintain.

I've never been to Madison, so perhaps it will be an excuse to come check it out sometime.

[3894]

Originally Posted by Stan4dSteph

I've never been to Madison, so perhaps it will be an excuse to come check it out sometime.

Somewhat like the People's Republic of Berkeley, Steph. Come on up!

Progress report:

Found an awesome house at an awesome price. Made an appointment with realtor.

Looked up crime stats. Three drive-by shootings since April, one in that block.

Cancelled appointment with realtor.

Found another awesome house. Looked up crime stats before contacting realtor. Two recent home invasions in neighborhood, plus assorted assaults, robberies, etc.

Need an unawesome house in an awesome neighborhood.