Just one week ago I retired from my job in Danbury, Connecticut and moved to Portland, Maine. I've worked all my life excepting two shore maternity leaves for my sons, so when I realized that I had the opportunity to stop working and move to Portland, I jumped at the chance.
We lived in Maine when the boys were small and I loved the city of Portland. It has a very European feel to me and I find it very affordable. Ben and I took a ride up about six weeks ago and found an apartment on the Back Cove, looking out onto the water.
So last Saturday we packed up our apartment in Danbury and took off in the rain for Portland, the two cats howling for a good part of the way. On Sunday we moved in with the help of two local college kids.
We've gradually been unpacking and taking the time to explore the area. I've walked the Back Cove Trail twice - 3 1/2 miles around door to door. We've been changing addresses, running to the stores, and meeting our neighbors.
I love my apartment. It's tiny but I'm finding that I don't need all the stuff I usually have had in the past. The complex was built in the 1940's and it definitely has a retro feel. But the front looks out on the water. Sunrises and sunsets are just beautiful here.
I think I've adjusted well to not working. I really don't miss it at all. I have plenty to do and I'm enjoying not having to deal with all that stuff at work.
Tomorrow I plan to do some exploring in the Old Port and maybe catch a movie
at the Nickelodeon.