Beach Bunny to Snow Bunny
Beach Bunny to Snow Bunny - Dana Chirps
Those of you who follow me on social media already heard this big announcement... Brett and I have moved to downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire! The past couple of months have been quite a whirlwind of events filled with ups, downs, interviews, stress, excitement, and pure chaos! Finally, things are settling down, whoo hoo!
When I moved to Bermuda, I did a FAQ post, that was really popular and helpful. I figured I'd do one for this move, too!
Why did you leave Bermuda!? Leaving Bermuda was bittersweet. What prompted the move was a phenomenal job opportunity for Brett. We always knew that living in Bermuda would be a short term adventure, and estimated that we'd be there 6-18 months. We clocked in just short of a year. We both feel like we maximized our time on that spectacular island, so we left feeling like "we did it." But make no mistake, we have every intention of going back to visit. It's a cheap and short direct flight from Logan which makes it pretty convenient (and realistic) to do so.
What will you miss the most about Bermuda? I think the things I'll miss the most are the three things that I love the most about Bermuda: the natural beauty, the friendships I made, and the simplicity. Oh, and the grilled octopus.
What won't you miss about Bermuda? The cost of damn groceries, that's for sure! Having to pedal bike everywhere - I enjoyed doing it sometimes, but having to depend on it is an exhausting lifestyle... especially when you are going grocery shopping! The anxiety of wondering if the taxi you scheduled is going to show.
What does Brett do? He's a pilot.
What will you be doing? Since moving to Bermuda, I've been doing (remote) contract marketing work. I have been so fortunate in this respect, as it would have been very difficult (and unlikely) for me to get work in Bermuda since I'm not Bermudian (more on that here). Now that I'm back in the states, I'm applying for full-time marketing positions with companies that excite me. It's sort of a weird time of year for a marketer to get work as most companies are in budget season, and not spending a dime until Q1 of 2018, so I'm aiming to be gainfully employed by the end of February. In the meantime, I'll continue to stay busy contractually.
You know it's cold there, right? This one makes me roll my eyes. Yes, it's been a while since I've done the whole winter thing... with almost a year in Bermuda, and 4 years in South Florida prior to that. Anywhere that isn't SoFlo is cold (to me). Essentially, any temp under 70, is cold (to me). So the way I look at it, is no matter where we live, it's going to be cold... and at least New England has other cultural aspects that make up for it.
What are you nervous about? I wouldn't say I'm nervous, but I am extremely ready to work for a company again. I miss the scope of projects that simply can't be done by just myself. I thrive in chaos, and am eager to be in the middle of it again!
Brett grew up in this area. So everything is "his." His town, his condo, his friends, his family (all live in the area), etc. However, some of these things are also advantages. His friends for the most part have been extremely welcoming, and embracing - I am so appreciative for that, too. I look forward to being at a point where I'm invited to things - with or without Brett's attendance. ;) And overall, my independent spirit is still determined to make my own friends, and make this place my own.
One thing that has been challenging to adapt to is the darkness. Essentially, in South Florida you get an extra hour of light, and what a difference it makes! Thankfully our condo is bright and airy.
What excites you the most about Portsmouth, New Hampshire? We live in a condo in downtown Portsmouth. Portsmouth is funky, artsy, historic, and has phenomenal restaurants, and shops. We are 15 minutes from the beach, 10 minutes to Kittery (Lululemon outlet, take all my money!!!), 25 minutes to Newburyport, under an hour to Boston, and an hour to Portland... so there's a ton of areas to explore. New places to photograph, experience, and write about!
My mom grew up in Boston, so I also have some family in New England which is really nice!
The food (particularly, seafood) is some of the best in the country.
Similar to South Florida, this area seems to be into active lifestyles, and fitness which is something I totally dig!
And although I'm moderately terrified, I can't wait to try skiing! Honestly, I'm more scared about disappointing Brett if I don't like it (it's his favorite thing to do), than I am about actually skiing. But I figure even if I hate skiing, we can always be sure to pick a place that has a bougie spa for me to indulge in instead!
Overall, 2018 is looking like it will be a year filled with celebrations, and new experiences. I'm pretty stoked.
