👀 Last year, I moved to LA
What do you consider a milestone?
October 24th, 2023…
Two checked bags
One carry-on
Eagerness and anticipation
Big dreams ahead
It is hard to imagine that one year ago I physically (and emotionally) packed up a beautiful life on the east coast and headed to California. It was a drawn out decision, that I turned into my reality. Like any big life transition this move has been far from easy, even though I illogically thought it would be more straightforward because “I’ve done this before.”
I lived in Los Angeles almost a decade ago, and since then have traveled back for vacations and multiple remote-work extended stays. I have learned that this is on-brand as many “Angelinos” have also left and come back to this romantic and romanticized city multiple times.
This year long experience has had light, intense and interesting chapters — many of which are still being written. The comfort & fulfillment I feel with the accessibility to nature is unparalleled. I could write another chapter about the opportunities I have been presented with that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. Or about the community I am slowly but surely building too.
Over the past few weeks, I have felt a sense of renewal. I do believe a portion of that is connected to celebrating the Jewish new year, Rosh Hashanah, and the energy that has come along with the season of other reflective and celebratory holidays too. Anything new comes extra effort and demands that are not necessarily negative but are a part of the process. Over the past few weeks I have quietly reveled in the little moments of synchronicity. Finally, I have felt radiance from my countless efforts.
All that to say, I have still wondered countless times if this has been the “right” decision for me. I love (I laugh) when people ask if I see myself living here forever. I do not know! What I do know, is that anything worthwhile is usually not easy. I have to remind myself that demanding days will happen anywhere I am living in the world. And for now, whether I have felt inconsolable or slightly tested, California is my chosen home.
October 24th, 2024…
A place to call home
Furniture, art, tchotchkes + memories
Acceptance for what is
Still dreaming
Questions for you:
1. Do you reflect on your milestones?
2. Do you even acknowledge certain life changes as milestones?
3. Do you set aside time to feel what a season of life brings up for you?
A lot happened personally and externally in October 2023 that has stirred up various emotions over the past month, one year later. I have found that it not only has been a time to reflect, but also a time to let myself feel.
I invite you to do the same: no matter how big or small a certain marker of time might seem, set aside space to notice the impact it had or has on your life. Reflect, feel, release, reach out for support and repeat during any season of life that is a reminder of change.
xoxo,
Amanda
PS In case no one told you today, I love you
PPS It’s a “Getting Through” Tuesday. Join online at 4:30pm PT / 7:30pm ET for 20 minutes of mindfulness & community. Complete complimentary registration on Calendly here for the zoom link. Suggested $11 donation (no one turned away for cost).