Everything is different now.

I can't believe it took me almost 20 years to get back to Florida. I thought for many years I would never return to live here. I thought it was a fine place to visit or retire, but that the politics were too conservative for my ultra liberal nature. What I'm slowly discovering is that Florida has changed much in the last 18+ years and that there is a place for me in this red state.

Many of you have wondered how I am and how my move has gone. It's been a difficult transition but ultimately, I am very pleased. It seems I left Chicago at just the right time. As most of you know, the cold and I do not agree. The recent temperature plunges and excessive snow in the Midwest would have severely depressed me. I'm like a plant and need lots of sun to survive. Also, I had been feeling very burnt out in Chicago. I felt it had given me everything I could get out of it. I was no longer working in the city and I was living as far north as I could go without leaving the city limits. I hated going downtown. And, most surprisingly, I missed my family.

Over the Christmas holidays while in Florida, I had a stunning realization. I knew I had to return. I knew my aging parents needed me around. I already knew I loved the ocean. I simply had to make it happen. So, I did.

My new apartment is perfect for me. The rent is so cheap. I thought I would have to sacrifice all the vintage elements I admired in Chicago apartments but I've found that Florida apartments are old too. The new place was built in the 20's. It has great flow and it's spacious. Check out the pictures below. My neighbors are all very friendly and quiet. No more crazy people screaming in the night or pissing in the alley. The view out the kitchen window is a tree with a family of blue jays and other birds throughout the day. I hear the sounds of birds all the time. Outside my bedroom window is a palm tree. The place gets great light and my stuff looks better than it really is in this space. The former tenant painted the living room red and gold. I told the landlord they could leave it only if I didn't have to repaint it. I'm so glad they agreed.

I'm not actually working yet. Living the good life, as it were, but looking for the right fit. I haven't given up the idea of working in publishing but to do so I would have to commute to Orlando which is almost 2 hours away. Teaching may be a possibility in the fall. Selling insurance isn't likely. You have to be licensed and in this state, you must take an actual licensing class. I've been working a bit on my book idea and launching a joint venture publishing company with a couple friends. In the mean time, I'm just enjoying life.

Den and Kitchen: I watch the birds and write.

Bedroom: serenity at its best.

Living room: My artwork has never looked so good!