New State, New Town, New Life

Starting over at 78 and alone.

My family is scattered across the United States. My husband passed away, and one year after his death, I decided I couldn't stay in our house surrounded by all the memories. I had two moving sales with the help of a couple of dear friends. I sold everything I owned, including the house. The only thing I kept was the bedroom suite and mementos.

I packed up my car and left after the moving van loaded my bedroom furniture. Yes, I had some butterflies in my tummy, and my friends were worried about me driving from Ohio to North Carolina alone. I took a few deep, cleansing breaths to calm myself. I had relaxed when I had been on the highway for 30 minutes.

I was on my way. I left at dawn because I wanted to drive straight through. My friends insisted I call them when I made stops. They wanted to be sure I was alright. I was flattered, so I did. They kept telling me how brave I was and voicing their concerns about me moving where I didn't know anyone. I reassured them that my realtor was extraordinarily truthful and helpful. They won't let me move into a drug-dealing neighborhood.

I arrived at my new home shortly before the moving van. It made me smile. The inside colors were all beachy and soft. It wasn't long before the dreaded organizing and unpacking began. I will not bore you with the details.

I was ready to start my new life. Be bold. Don't worry if you have ever thought of doing something like this. My friends called me a hero and brave, but I tackled my new life head-on. My realtors told me about a Newcomers Club in the area, so I looked into that as soon as I got organized.

Soon, I was going to dinner parties with the group and learning all the great places to eat in town. I met with a few ladies separate from the group, and we would go to wine tastings. Before I knew it, I took trolley car rides, toured historical sites, and attended wine and design parties. I almost forgot the hayride through Christmas lights.

I also found a church home, and through there, I made friends by joining the women's fellowship group. After the service, I was invited to go out to lunch with some of the members. Yes, there's a lot of eating going on here. Anything social is going to involve food. I've put on a pound or two.

The first time I went to the grocery store and ran into someone I knew, I knew I was at home. It seems like a simple thing, but it gave me the warm fuzzies. I've also made friends with my neighbors. I made the right decision.

The moral of the story: Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.