Two years ago today I was living in the bay area and visiting my family in Utah. My parents had just moved into a new home and the express purpose of my visit was to see if I could handle moving to Utah and living with them so I could return to school. Quite a few of my friends thought I was crazy to move to Utah – especially to live with my parents. But I had reached a place with my job where I was tremendously unhappy didn’t give two shits about my work. Everyday was a challenge to get up and go to that job. I had worked long enough in that industry that I made a decent salary, which kept me there for 6 years, until I realized I just couldn’t take it anymore. Working in a job I loathed was sofa king unhealthy. It probably had a large affect my back problems and surgery from the year before.
Sure I could have taken classes while working (which I did) but it never got me anywhere. The thought of starting over and being able to attend school full time was the first thing that got me thinking about Utah. During my 2007 Memorial Day visit it was my little niece who stole my heart and sealed my decision to move. I have four other nieces but had never lived near any of them. Seeing how adorable my little eight-month-old niece was and realizing how much of an impact I could have on her life by being a regular part of it persuaded me to move.
I also didn’t want to one day regret not spending time with my parents while they are still around. I had a conversation with one of my uncles about how much he regrets not spending time with his parents when they lived in the same town because he was too busy working. I don’t want that to be me.
Even though I gripe about the liquor laws and fry sauce, I am glad that I made the move. I love seeing my niece and sister. We have a much closer relationship than ever before, I see my parents enough that they drive me crazy (sometimes), and I have met many fabulous new friends.
The biggest change, one that I wouldn’t have believed even if someone had told me, was meeting Mike. I have never felt as happy and secure in a relationship as I do with Mike. Certain things make sense that didn’t before and I am so happy to have clicked on (hello internet dating!) my true partner. He understands so much of the Mormon bullshit I grew up with because he is a non-Mormon raised in SLC. Plus he’s sensitive, hilarious, has an equally twisted sense of humor, and he’s a total hunk! I am thrilled for the next 46 days to fly by so we can be husband and wife.
well im totally glad you made the decision to move here! Im sure there are lots of people that miss you but im happy you came into my life! xoxo
Thanks Suzanne, I’m happy about having you in my life, too! xoxo
I’m so glad you found someone who is your partner and makes you feel that way!
Life works in weird ways – so so so happy for you
Two years ago I began lurking on your blog. It’s been quite a journey with signposts like “If anyone needs me I’ll be drinking in my closet”, “My dysfunctional family is better than yours”, “Too bad I don’t have mental health coverage” all the way through to the regular “barfing rainbows” of the present day. I’ve so enjoyed the ride – sad and painful on occasion, angry at times, but almost always fun and often hilarious. May you and Mike live happily ever after.
I’m glad living in Utah has worked out for you (and for Mike)! I’d sooner be put through a blender than do it again. But, I did get out of Utah with my beautiful Siamese cat. Not as good as Mike, of course, but we love him anyway.
Can’t wait to see pics of the wedding.
It’s great to read about what brought you to Utah and to hear how happy and fulfilled you are. I love when people find their path and I especially love when people find meaningful love in their lives. Priceless.
And, it’s great that you’re in UT so when I visit, we get to meet up!
This is beautiful! I love that you have found this kind of love!
So happy that you sound so good! Big risk comes with big change, but it sounds like it’s SO totally worth it!
I’m glad that you’re in Utah…we’ve never been closer!! Can’t wait to see you in 45 days!
I’m glad you took the plunge and it worked out for you! I am always scared to make big life decisions like that. Good for you!
I hope the next 46 days fly by too!
I honestly can’t believe it has been two years since you moved back to Utah. That’s crazy. It feels like maybe a year ago or so, but not 24 months.
Mike, what else can we say? He seems like a tremendous dude.
Pants!!!! Oh my God!!!
Congratulations!!!!
You’re getting married!!!! I’m so excited for you! GayTown is all aglow with happiness for you even tho it misses you a great deal!
A friend who recently moved back from Utah told me that living there ruined Red Hot Chili Peppers for her because it is all that she ever heard anywhere there — but now, she says, all she hears in SF is Blondie so she has grown weary of Blondie.
Not sure why I’m sharing this — but don’t lose your love of the Peppers!
And, don’t let marriage tame you!!!
Sending you a big hug of love!!!
matty
When I read about your moving back to Utah, I was kind of stunned in a “are you fucking kidding me?” kind of way.
I get it though. For all my bitching about Utah, it’s where I grew up. Utah is also home to my friends and family. I don’t care a rats ass about Mormonism as long as the people are decent – and if they’re not – fuck them. I care about Utah enough so that I take time to go back there and reconnect with friends and family. Yes, I used to avidly mock anyone who would willingly spend their vacations in Utah, but I realized quickly that I was making fun of myself.
I’m glad for you and so excited that you have a place, community, family, and love that make where you are your home.
I love this, and am so happy for you.
This is helping me tremendously with my move back to Utah. Even thought it’s only temporary, I’m still freaked, but am so glad that you are there.
Time spent with family, is time you will never get back. As annoying as they can be, it is so important to be with them.