Goodbye, Austin

Austin was a sleepy little city in 1989. I arrived with a suitcase spilling over with vintage dresses, Mexican shirts, a clean set of  sheets and a laundry basket with sundries and nothing else. My best friend and I were anxious to begin our lives and after a few weeks in town we wanted to find little jobs and settle into little homes of our own.  After almost twenty-two years,  I am leaving town, exiting with a few suitcases and a laundry basket of sundries.

Last night I joined some friends on Congress for First Thursday and finally felt just how much I will miss the place I called home, my way of life and my friends.  However,  I am more than excited about what lies ahead. While I always saw myself one day leaving Austin, no one else did and my news surprised many. It seems a bit of a daring move to some but I must admit that quitting my safe little job felt completely liberating. I am still waiting for that feeling of despair or regret or fear. It has yet to arrive. Maybe it won't.

I can finally leave Austin because I am able to find my way back into town when I am ready. I love this little city more than I know and will return with a renewed appreciation, I am sure, but there is a whole world out there. I'll let you know what I find.