Some News
We are moving. Across the country. The wide, vast country. And I can barely wrap my head around that fact.
When. Where. Why:
We're moving on April 30th. Give or take a couple of days. We're moving to Colorado. To the Denver/Boulder metro area. We're moving because... Well frankly, it's because New York is an expensive place to live and we need to buckle down and save some money.
Full disclosure:
I'm certain I'll be excited at some point — Colorado is amazing and I know my family will thrive there. But right now, I'm still in the mourning/grieving stage. Despairing to leave our New York home of 8 years. We've had 3 babies here. Made dear friends. Grown a few businesses. Earned a PhD. Attempted to take advantage of every good thing the city has to offer...
Moving is hard. Physically. Emotionally. Even when it's the right move, the right thing to do, it's still hard. If you have a minute, I could use a little encouragement. A little bravery in my corner. A reminder that I'll make new friends. That at some point, I'll be unpacked in a pretty house. That there will be wonderful not-New-York adventures for our little family still to come.
If you have a favorite thing about Colorado, please share — because as soon as I can get past these moving blues, I'm going to want to be totally psyched to make our new home.
photo credit
posted by Gabrielle of Design Mom at Monday, March 30, 2009
227 Comments:
We're moving from Texas to Boston this fall and I go back and forth between excitement and terror.
It's a nice safety net to have the church, though, and that makes me worry less.
Wow! How exciting it will be! My in-laws live in Colorado Springs and there are literally millions of things to do. It's a fabulous place for a family to live! We made a very difficult move several years ago and now I think of it as such a great adventure and wonderful place to live. I bet the same will happen for you.
BIG news! I think it's wonderfully exciting ... a new adventure and you'll certainly get to enjoy the great outdoors more. I wish you nothing but happiness, excitement and luck! xo
You will LOVE Colorado. Everyone I know who lives there does. Friends have gone and not come back (I live in Phoenix). The outdoor adventure possibilities are endless. Unlike New York, you never hear people say "I HAVE to get out of this city". The skiing is great. Vacations to Disneyland, Vegas and Hawaii are so much closer. So, not only will you and your family LOVE Colorado, Colorado will love you!
Mountains!
If you need to stop around Wichita, look me up...
You will love Colorado.
The Denver/Boulder area is fantastic! New York--no, but nothing will ever compare to that. It is a beautiful, clean, artsy fun place to be. (We are now taking our turn on the East coast, but spent 10 years in Denver.) The church is strong and diverse in those areas. Promise, you will definitely grow to love it. Good luck with everything.
Moving is hard! But, on the up side you are moving to Colorado, yyiippee!! I grew up in Colorado and it's a wonderful place!
Some of my favorite things about Colorado are, the early fall weather, nothing is better! There are a million and one things to do outside! The Denver Zoo and Natural History Museum are great for kids. Fresh produce, need I say more?! Lack of humidity, "it's a dry heat" :)
You'll find your own wonderful things about Colorado. It is a great place and, after the shock of moving wears off I'm sure you'll see that.
Good luck with moving!!
I'm in the NYC area right now and I enjoy it. BUT. Our ultimate destination is currently leaning the Colorado Boulder way.
I've never lived there, but I LOVE IT! It's so beautiful! It has a history so different from the East and so fun.
I recommend heading to Silver City and Euray (sp?) for a fun little trip. It really takes you back to the "old west"
Well, not to speak for others, but I know of a couple of blogger folk who will be thrilled of this news. and I hope that I will get to meet you, now sooner than later.
I agree, moving is exhausting – maybe more emotionally than physically, even. I admit I still miss home {the South} from time to time.
You are really going to love it here. The wide open spaces, the 300 days of sunshine, the outdoor activities for every season. It is action-packed here, just in a different way than NY.
Colorado native here, and I love it to bits. Your family is coming at the perfect time of year to embrace the outdoor adventures you can acquire here. I am about 50 or so miles south of Denver, and there is a lot to do in the area you are relocating to that will surely make you feel like home before long. I will miss your NY perspective, but look forward to CO updates. Lovely Colorado will grow on you so quickly, you'll wonder why you didn't come here sooner. :) Best to you as you make this huge move!!
We lived in Denver last summer for an internship and loved it. It's definitely different from NYC, but in a good way. There is still plenty to do and TONS of outdoor stuff close by. I've lived in many different states and have come to the conclusion that they all have their pros and cons...most of all, if you stay positive you'll be happy. Good luck!!!!
I know EXACTLY how you feel! We're prepping for an epic cross-country move from our beloved Washington, D.C. to Salt Lake City! And we don't even have family there!!!!!!
Hang in there! You'll be pleasantly surprised. You'll love the vibe and availability of activities in Denver/Boulder. I grew up near Vail and you'll love being close to the mountains.
You can do it! Just think -- it's like that feeling you get when you hike to the top of the mountain -- dead tired, but with a new perspective and view. Enjoy the view!
Thank you, you dear fellow bloggers. I'm feeling more encouraged already. 300 days of sunshine? Sounds good to me.
There's so much to do and so many interesting people to meet. Denver is a place of transplants, all with back stories and fun things to teach you and your family.
From a kid perspective, moving around as a child made me more adaptable with wider view of the world. I've lived in MT, NY, NH, MA (for my formative years), MN and IA (where I live now.)
You learn how to pick up and make new friends and you learn to rely on yourself. You learn how to bloom where you are planted.
I grew up in Colorado and I love it! You are going to love living there and all it has to offer. While it is not New York like, there are many adventures that await you. Your kids will love it there too. I now live in Utah and love to go and visit my parents who still live there (in the Littleton area, South of Denver)whenever I get a chance.
Boulder!?! That's awesome. I, too, miss the Wonderland that is NYC, but we left the East Coast after two babies & a Ph.D. & we've never regretted it.
Boulder is another amazingly creative place to be.
I grew up in NY so of course I love it--but Colorado is seriously the most beautiful place I've ever been. EVER!
I absolutely love it there. And I always hear really smart people live there for some reason.
I think it's the best place in the west coast without being in beautiful but overpriced California, too hot Arizona, or Utah (which i also love--but is innundated with Phd's making it almost impossible to find a good job) Colorado is the best, seriously.
P.S. I realize there are more states in the west coast..those are just the ones I ever factor in as possibilities.
Colorado will be fantastic for your family. Crisp mountain air, stunning vistas, a plethora of outdoor activity, and lower home prices will all be a benefit to your brood. And if nothing else, it could be worse: We're moving to the Detroit area this summer (our 3rd move in 4 years), and I am utterly freaked out. It should be for just 2 years, but still....I empathize with your feelings. Moving is hard no matter where you are going. Best of luck to you.
Oh, Mama! I wish my husband and I could be there to help you pack/move. I'm super-packer, and he's pretty much the fastest mover ever (we have LOTS of experience).
You're going to do just great, Gabrielle. You have such a fantastic attitude and work ethic. I know you all will thrive there.
Sending you lots of energy and courage,
Lauren
So did Ben Blair get a new job?
Boulder is really awesome. You will love it. And, of course, the internet will keep you connected wherever you go.
long time reader, first time comment maker...you will LOVE the Denver/Boulder move. I'm certain of this because my sister and her fiance did the exact same thing this time last year (from the Upper East Side NYC to Cheeseman Park Denver) and now they wouldn't dream of being anywhere else. Incredible dining, shopping, hiking, skiing, art, and the cutest little bungalows on every corner...you name it, they've got it...and all for a quarter of the price! In fact, they've decided to have their wedding there this fall they love it so much. Good luck with the move, looking forward to your posts from the wild, wild west!
Somebody told me this trick: write a list of all the things you love and will miss about NYC, then look back after living in CO for a year and see how you've found things to make up for your "losses." You're going to apply all your finding skills to turn CO upside down and discover the best it has to offer. I just know it!
While I can imagine how hard it will be to leave a wonderful home with such firmly implanted roots (at least 8 years' worth), I also know that your little family will find friends and fun anywhere you go.
New York will be a hard place to leave - it's such an exciting city. But CO has so much to offer. I have good friends who just moved back to the East Coast from Denver last year, and they felt much the same way you do now.
I'll get her to give me a list of places to go, things to do so you can add that to everything you have to look forward to.
And not to state the obvious - but you'll always have friends online if you're ever feeling a little homesick for NYC.
How exciting! Congrats to your family. I have visited there many times and it's beautiful. I'm sure you'll love it. Moving across the country (from Indiana to So. Cal) was one of the best decisions my husband and I ever made - it's so fun starting fresh. Good luck!
What an adventure! Will you go for the full opposite and have a little farm, Green Acres style?
Colorado is amazing and lovely. Once you get settled, go for a day hike in Rocky Mountain National park and see the elk. We also loved passing through Steamboat Springs and Paonia on our honeymoon.
i so heart colorado (very biased post from a native). the mountains are beautiful and you'll get to take full advantage from your location. skiing, hiking...the sunset on the flatirons is breathtaking. my favorite place in all of colorado is the telluride area. but there are so many hidden gems and tiny towns...there is so much to explore. colorado is such an active, healthy place. i've heard it has more sunshine days than florida. you will experience all 4 seasons and sometimes more than one season in the same week (last week we had 70 degrees and then a snowstorm). both boulder and denver have all the amenities you could want...but in no way comparable to NYC! major sports teams. museums, parks, the zoo. i have lived here my whole life and i'm still exploring...hope you love it!
So exciting! Congratulations!
We're getting ready to move about that same time - Boston to Delaware - and I'm entering into that "Oh my gosh we have so much to do" phase. I'm sure you can relate.
Moving is a total cleansing. There are lots of hard things, but also some really GREAT aspects. A new chapter! A new adventure! It will be great experience in Colorado for you and your family, I'm sure.
Moving is hard. I've done it four times (not cross country) and it just is. Some friends are doing this too (moving from VA to CA) because there isn't any jobs for him.
But you're taking what's important: your family. They're your treasures. And they'll thrive. And you'll be happy, because they're with you. It won't be easy sometimes, but you'll have a home that you'll adjust your belongings to. And you'll love it differently, but the same.
Oh Gabrielle!
such a sweet, honest post. Wish I was nearby & could help you pack & buy you chocolate. okay - I love new yOrk, so I can totally understand why you are grieving. It is an amazing city but...I always say to my husband - I wish we would have lived in NYC before we had kids. I never say, I wish we could live in NYC right now. Why? As much as the city has to offer to children, I would much rather raise my kids in Colorado. Kids need lots of grass and trees and streams and rivers. They need lots of room to run & explore. Yes, beyond even what Central Park can offer. I think thi sis the start of an exciting new life for both you & your kids. One that has less material glitz but lots of natural beauty. A good trade, I think.
xoxo
Emily
You should visit the Denver Performing Arts Center. Amazing shows come to tour there but their own troupe is just as great. The Denver Zoo is a great place to visit too. Both my husband and I are from there and still have family there. Great schools everywhere for your kids, you'll find plenty of things to do and to love.
I love Colorado! Moving is ALWAYS hard, especially when you so adore the place you're leaving. Your new destination will not compare to NYC in many ways – but you will do best not trying to compare! Because Denver/Boulder has so much to offer, too – in ways that NYC can't compare! You WILL find new and exciting things to love. Your family will have such adventures. You will have access to the outdoors like never before – and oh, the mountains, the proximity to so much stunning beauty. It *is* still a booming metro area with art and culture, and a whole new culture to learn. You WILL find new friends, build a new community, put down new roots. Remember that you will!
You're going to love it! Colorado is stunningly beautiful. The green, mountainous skyline is different from New York's but so beautiful. There is amazing shopping and eating, too. You're going to really love it there.
I would suggest simply taking an hour or two and learning about the area (if you don't know much about it already) and find 10 (15, 25, however many) things that you want to do once you're there--museums to visit, parks to discover, hikes you might want to try, etc. That can help getting over the "homesick" feeling of being in a new place AND help it feel like home more quickly because you'll get to know your way around.
We lived in Boulder, CO while my husband did an internship a few summers ago and we loved it! I think Colorado is so beautiful! There are fabulous things to do--especially if you like doing things outdoors. We had a wonderful time hiking and biking on the trails nearby and we did drive down to Canon City to do some white water rafting which was so awesome.
Good luck--I know moving is hard, but there are always new adventures to be had and wonderful new people to meet!
It is tough, no way around that. But, you get to decorate again-a fresh, clean slate. Same with the kids and you/your husband, making friends will be fresh and new. And, you can find new favorite places to eat, to shop, to play, to find adventure. Great luck.
A friend gave me this quote a while ago and it still helps me so much. I can't remember who said it, it was one of the quorum of the 12 I think. Hopefully it will help you too:
"All the strength you will ever need is within you now. It was put there by your Creator who knew very well what you would face in this life and made you equal to it."
Moving is tough but it is also exciting. It will feel like home in no time. :-)
I know that you don't know me, and I dont know you! But I just wanted to let you know that I am completely jealous that you are moving to Colorado. I lived in Littleton for 6 years and LOVED LOVED LOVED it! It is an amazing place to live. The people are great. So friendly and accepting of everyone. The seasons are amazing - because you have all four in their greatest! You can sled and ski/snowboard in the winter, you can picnic and hike in the mountains in the summer, you will have beautiful spring showers and to die for trees in the fall when their leaves change. The mountains will seriously blow your mind.
And even though I don't know you personally - I read your blog and you seem to be an exceptional lady! You will DEFINITELY make new friends with all of your craftiness and fun ideas. Keep your chin up, have fun going through your stuff as you box and just remember it is a new adventure! Happy moving :)
Moving is a drag in some ways (packing and unpacking) but SO MUCH FUN in other ways! Redecorating, figuring out whose room is whose, what goes where, finding new adventures and restaurants and cool places to visit...so fun. Its also a great chance to sort through your stuff and decide what you really love and want to keep, and what can go--decluttering at its best! And I know--I moved 7 times in 5 years in the military! Look at the positives, and the negatives melt into the background!
did a cross country move myself ... utah to chicago (whew it was a doozie!) that being said, our family lives in colorado and they tell us the public services (rec centers, parks etc...) are AMAZING!
my moving advice (weve moved 10 times) start now and search out every rubbermaid big bin sale you can find and buy as many as you can (we usually get ours for about $3 or so) ... they keep your stuff from getting squished, they are easy to carry, they stack in the truck, you can use duct tape to label them - and are a cinch to store (just stack them up) once you arrive at your new casa. we cannot move without them (we have about 50) and I live and die by this rule now ... the less boxes the better!
Gabby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It was hard to leave NY after 2, so I'm sure you'll grieve for a little while longer.
That said. Colorado is beautiful. My grandparents lived there forever, my aunt lives there and my mom absolutely loves the mountains there. It's a lovely, lovely place with a lot to do. I'm sure you'll settle in and love it.
Good luck! Let me know if you need anything!
Colorado is so beautiful! One place to visit is Steamboat Springs. You won't want to miss the Hot Air Balloon event. Not as spectacular as our's in New Mexico, but kids love hot air balloons. Or? Come down to New Mexico in early Oct. Enjoy our beautiful weather & Balloon Fiesta. It's a much closer drive from CO than NY! Also, check out Mesa Verde in Colorado...it is an incredible site!
This fall hubby starts a distance PhD program at UC Boulder and after the first 2-3 years we will be moving their to finish up the coursework (you can only do so many distance hours).
Want to get a jump on making new friends for yourself and kids? Find the local chapter of MOMS Club (momsclub.org) and join. It's a great starting place when you're new to an area. My chapter always has lots of fun things going on in the spring/summer when the older kids start getting out of school, but it is great for the little ones too.
That is huge news! While I haven't moved cross country in a few years, here's what I can say to you. I can tell (just by reading your blog) that you are a friendly, resourceful and wonderful person. I have no doubt that you will be sharing stories about your family's new adventures and fun new friends in no time. In the meantime, take advantage of moving. I always get to do my best reflecting as I pack..not to mention some really great organizing and purging of stuff!
I am always saddened to have to move (and leave behind old friends and memories), but it's always exciting for new adventures!!
And Colorado is a great place, especially the Denver area. Every time I visit my cousin there, I love to see her little boutique, Wrought'n Apples. It seems like a fun place to start up little businesses like that so I'm sure you'll find your niche!!
I grew up close to Colorado in northern New Mexico. The Skiing is great! I know it's far from Denver but in the summer in Durango, Co (one of the coolest cities I've ever been too) the Bar-D Chuckwagon is there. I've gone every summer since I was a little girl and it's such a great thing to go to as a family. The food, the shops and the entertainment is a great. Your girls will love it. You should look into it!
Two words: The Sabeys.
By the way, I have loved the move Noah and I made to Indiana--I absolutely LOVE exploring new towns and meeting new people. Sure you don't want to move to Columbus Indiana?
We moved (we and our four children) three years ago from a 1 million hab city to a 300 hab little village. It was an old and great goal for our family, but I remember with sadness the last days in the city:... this is the last time I'm buying here, we won't see these people probabaly anymore... the big news were that when we arrived here ALL the pains were behind and only feel happiness :) Ánimo!
From Spain,
Elena
wow~ that is a big move. we live in DC but are from the west, and you can't quite beat the openness of the people and the space in the west. good luck!
I say, skip Colorado and keep driving to Vegas. If your going to move, move big. Just think about all the topics you could write about living here. And our airport is a major hub so you could easily get to all of your conferences. With the housing market as crappy as it is, you'll get a screaming deal on a fantastic house. And we are really nice...just ask Melissa Nielson. I have a book group that could use one more member!!!!!
You're probably nervous about uprooting your kids and making them the "new kids" at school... but you shouldn't be. My family (not even for miliatary reasons; my parents were just gypsies, I guess) moved quite a lot growing up- about every 4 years. And some people (esp. those who never moved and lived forever in one neighborhood, aka my husband) are terrified of moving and change, but I LOVE IT! You get to be the kid everyone is dying to meet. You get to leave behind negative aspects of yourself and start again fresh. You get to decorate and figure out a new house (or room, for kids). And you get to experience a whole sleu (sp?) of new experiences that you otherwise would have missed out on. Lastly, your friends you have now are yours "for keeps"... and now you get to meet lots of new ones. Your heart will thank you. :) Good luck with the move. And perk up... it will be great!
Such kind words! And so helpful. I am sitting at my desk trying to type, but I keep having to stop and wipe tears. Happy tears for your happy words. Thank you.
You will enjoy the beautiful Denver Botanical Garden - a great place to kids to learn and explore!
Just think season ski passes mountains,mountains MOUNTAINS!
Having recently completed a move that I wasn't fully on board with (from my home of 25 years, Dallas, to the bay area of Northern California) I'll say this: It's going to be hard. But it's going to be awesome. You'll have elbow room and fresh air and all of those wonderful things the other posters wrote about.
It will also be good for the kids. A bit of upheaval and adjustment never hurt anyone. If anything, it will make them more resilient.
Good luck with the move!
Boulder is great! Pearle Street is so much fun with all the cool street performers. The people are so nice. It's like being on vacation but living there. You will get the mountain curse you will never want to leave. Great schools too. Fireworks in Ned is awesome. Email if I can help with anything!
Four years ago we moved from Denver to New Jersey. I love New Jersey and I miss Denver EVERYDAY! You and your family will LOVE it there. They have wonderful bike trails that go from the city way into the mountains and back. The mountains are just perfect. Congrats!!
This is exciting news! I think that your family is going to thrive in Colorado. The weather is gorgeous and I think the ability to be outdoors so much will be great for your kids. Plus, it's sunshine almost all the time, but you have the 4 seasons, great skiing nearby, a decent sized city... and you will definitely meet friends! I'm super excited for you!
I grew up in Colorado! It's beautiful there, especially the Boulder area. And sunshine--it's always sunny in Colorado. Seriously, bring sunscreen and enjoy. I think all that sun will really help you feel good about your new home. And then there's the hiking, the biking, the skiing, etc. And! Denver is very happening. They have a lively downtown area and lots of super kid-friendly museums. It'll be great--you'll love it!
John Denver sure does make Colorado sound great. I loved living in Colorado. And you will be closer to family out here so you will be able to visit more. Which means we might get to see you too:)
I'm from the Denver area (Centennial, south of Denver) and absolutely LOVE it! I'm living in Utah now but my husband & I are planning on moving back by the end of the year. Moving is hard, absolutely, but Colorado is gorgeous, full of culture and a clean, safe enviornment for families (depending on the area ofcourse). I'm jealous, you'll love it!
The weather.
The mountains.
The weather. (Wait, I already said that.)
Are you sure you don't want to move a wee bit further west, like to my neighborhood? :)
It will be great.
I moved to Denver/Boulder area from Chicago 4 years ago and haven't looked back once. It's an awesomely laid back atmosphere, the people are friendly, and it's a great place to raise a family. As a fellow art director/designer, the design community is small but active and vibrant! Welcome to Colorado!
You will love it here in Colorado! We moved here in 5 years ago this April from Los Angeles. You are moving at the perfect time to enjoy the great weather.
I read a fun fact about Colorado the other day--it has the lowest obesity rate in the country, apparently due to the fact that the people living there have access to so many healthful activities.
Our family always makes it a point to stop in Colorado as we're driving cross-country to see family in Utah, as Rocky Mtn. National Park is just about our kids' favorite place in the world. Really, it's fantastic. Boulder, CO Springs, or Denver are all on our shortlist of places we'd like to live when this Ph.D. finally wraps up.
How exciting! I have family in Longmont- maybe I can sneak in a visit with you next time I am there!
Steph
wow! That is major news, and a major move. I lived in CO for two years, and it is beautiful. The view of the mountains from Denver really is so pretty. Illegal Pete's is my all-time favorite burrito place (locations in both Denver and Boulder), and Sonoda's for sushi is a must (not much of a "scene" but the food is great). You'll have a lot of fun making the rounds for skiing, snow shoeing, etc, and really, you won't even believe the pace compared to NY! So much more laid back! For side trips, make sure you drive up Mt. Evans, and do take a trip south to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Best of luck, and don't worry!!
Im so excited you're moving to the Denver area!!! You have no idea! Me and my soon to be husband are moving there in June for graduate school for at lease two years!!!!!!!!! I've never read anyone's blog that lived in the same place as me! It will be exciting to see how someone else is discovering the same city as me!! YAY!
When we moved 13 yrs ago, our kids were 8 and 12. I expected our shy 12 yr to wither and our rambuncious 8 yr to thrive, the opposite happened. We all look back on it as a wonderful sabbatical time for out family to bond.
Boulder is an all time favorite place of our family. By the season family pass for skiing.
My favorite thing about Colorado????
MEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!
YOUUUUU AND MEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!
Your kids and my kid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Your man and my man!!!!!!!!!
But mostly YOOUUUUU AND MEEEEEEEEE!
Gasp! Oh! YOU.WILL.LOVE.IT! I'm from Wyoming. Denver was our getaway. Here's a couple things you'll love about Colorado.
1. All the limit-less outdoors stuff!
2. The Colorado Rockies. If you need a baseball team to love-these are the guys. Give up those overpayed Yankees right now!
3. We were married in the Denver Temple. It's perfect. It's in the southern part of Denver, so it may take you about an hour of city driving to get there. Unless you go around on C-470.
4. The front range-The mountains. The Rocky Mountains. Simply beautiful.
You will absolutely LOVE IT!
Oh wow—that's a big move! I'm sure Colorado will be fun and exciting; wishing you some extra clarity and serenity over the next few weeks!
P.S. Ginger is right about the Rockies. Those dudes are great guys. And I don't even like baseball.
And P.S. - get psyched:
http://denver.savvysource.com/
My favourite things are Aimee and Gwen, otherwise I have never been. Congratulations! I understand the stress of a huge move and wish you all the best. I have no doubt you will do fantastic.
xo
Oh the moving! But oh the amazing people out there.
Sending you good thoughts for your transition.
xoxo
I LOVE Colorado and wouldn't want to live anywhere else!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's sunny ALL the time...more days than Miami.
The mountains are so fabulous and the majority of people are really active and healthy. Being green is UBER important. There are so AMAZING historic and beautiful neighborhoods around here.
You'll love it.
I grew up in Denver and my fondest memories involve our drives up in the mountains each fall for long hikes and to watch the aspen colors change. Stunning.
Moving is tough but you'll find your spots and connections and soon be making Colorado memories. Just takes a bit of time before it feels like home. I recommend some John Denver for the drive out.
I was in Denver for the first time last week. I stopped at a corner with my friends trying to decide which direction to go to find a place to eat. A guy on the street stopped to ask if we were lost or needed help. We were momentarily shocked (full-disclosure we spend most of our time outside of the US) but when I mentioned we were looking for some place to eat, he was quick with a great recommendation and directions.
Every place we went in Denver last week we were greeted by friendly people and the service was amazing.
Good luck - I hope you find the people there as friendly and helpful as we did.
what's more exciting than being close to your your family? we're so excited you're coming out west.
hope you'll let us come down and help you move in/decorate. xoxo
Oh, I just have to comment twice to let you know just how excited I am for you to move out here!
It's the best.
If you need extra hands unpacking, drop me an email!
katie(dot)cardon(at)gmail(dot)com
One major thing to love about Denver: The Tattered Cover. One of the best bookstores in the whole wide world.
The mountains are amazing there, and there are good museums, too.
Plus, you can visit all the other cool Western cities with relative ease: Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, and so forth.
I feel your pain. We moved from NYC after 6 1/2 years to Northern California nearly 5 years ago...and the first 3 years were TOUGH. I missed NY desperately. But in the course of these nearly 5 years I have fallen in LOVE with my new "homeland". The weather, the people, the pace, my house, my new friends. Just think - you're going to meet people and make friends with those you would have never otherwise met! How exciting. And knowing you, you will create a beautiful home wherever you land.
Keep your chin up - it's going to be a great experience. We're all going to want to hear about it!
I grew up in New England; Central New York and Western Massachusetts. I loved it and ended up coming to school in Utah, married after graduating and still live here. While my heart has a soft spot for the East Coast the very best thing about the West is the amazing range of outdoor activities available. Skiing, cycling, huge mountains, and vast plains. I moved quite a bit as a child and HATED it, but I've come to realize that I only hated it because I grew to love each new area as my home!
My mom lives in Denver and we love the natural history museum there. One of the best I've been to (of course, I've never been to NY).
understand the moving blues...we are moving from the Pacific Northwest to China this summer. I have to figure out what to do with everything in my house...and my house! I'm excited, up for the adventure, but will also miss family and friends, clean air, dryers, and being able to speak to anyone I want...at least at first. Off to do more sorting!
p.s. I love Colorado, and having lived in California, Oregon, Utah would live in CO in a minute. Best to your fam!
What lovely friends you will make, and all that room for your family to grow in.
The perfect time to do some spring cleaning?
This will be wonderful!
New York....if you can make it there, you'll make it anywhere.... like Colorado!!! Congratulations and I'm sure it will be a great move for your family.
I love the air and the mountains in CO. It seems like a really healthy place for kids. Plus....you will now be smack-dab in the middle of the country which makes visiting your extended family and friends so much easier!
I lived in Boulder for 5 years (had one of my kids there). You will love it. Funny enough, I moved because it was too expensive. I am still in Colorado and find time to go back and visit friends and wonderful resources a few times a year. The schools are great and you will love the wonderful outdoors of the state. Downtown Denver is a blast too. Excited for you.
Colorado is a great place to raise a family. We live in Denver with our 3 month old & there really is always something fun to do with kids all year around. This is a very family orientated place with a great network of moms who'd be happy to welcome you with open arms. I'm actually in the process of putting together a blog for moms here in Colorado perhaps once you get settled you'd be interested in doing a little blogging on the perspective of a new Colorado mom.
You'll love the Denver/Boulder area, especially Boulder. Try finding a place in Louisville or Lafayette. I'm particularly fond of Louisville--cute, great little paths, not to fancy. Great wards. Cool people. And a great radio station (kbco).
Gasp! I can't believe it! I really can't imagine NY without you. I'll be honest, I STILL miss New York terribly and I don't think I was there as long as you. BUT. I have made amazing friends in Miami. Surprisingly so. And you seem (to everyone else, at least), to be so on top of the world and on top of your game, a new challenge is probably in line! :) Best of luck. I abhor moving.
We just moved to Northern Colorado in December. Not the optimal time to move to a cold northern state, but we love it! Our neighbors are very friendly, our ward has been so welcoming, and we are within driving distance of lots of family. We couldn't be happier. I know once you get here and settled in you'll love it too. Good luck with the move!
I'm sad to be leaving Colorado just as you arrive! I've been living in Fort Collins for the past four years, but we are relocating to New Mexico this summer. We have loved our time in Colorado -- the mountains are just amazing, and so many fun outdoorsy things to do! Fort Collins has been an amazing place to raise kids, and I have heard the same about other cities in the Front Range. Boulder is a lot of fun -- a great artsy community, with so much originality. You will love it!
two words for you: air quality. imagine - no more city grit! you're lucky...
Wow, I am jealous. Before I met my husband I was moving to CO too. Now, I live in the arctic, northeast Massachusetts. Denver has a wonderful children's museum and the winters are much better than ours on the east coast. My sister lives in Evergreen and I visit every chance I get. You will love it and your children will grow in ways that were impossible in NYC. Good luck!
You are moving to my neck of the woods! We moved from Virginia to Colorado just under a year ago. I love the Boulder area (my family is about 1/2 hour East of there). My favorite thing about Colordo is the mountains, mountains, mountains. Plus, right up Boulder canyon there is are great trails and an awesome creek perfect for summer tubing. Good luck.
the Denver/Boulder area is AWESOME! In a very different way that NYC of course, but I know you'll love it. My husband grew up there and he loves it. The weather is amazing. The sun shines so much there, the mountains are beautiful and the air is so clear and clean.
You're brave to do it, we've moved a lot in the last few years and I think the thing that's saved me from utter despair is always knowing I'm going to move into a place with a ward that will adopt us. It makes a big difference when we're moving far from family.
Sooo many people (including me) wish they could live in such an amazing state!!! Congratulations!!And the Denver/Boulder area is teeming with fun stuff for families and adults alike!! My hubby served there and we have taken two vacations there, each time seeing completely different things.
Some of this TX girl's favorite things about Denver: the closeness to the mountains, the vibrant culture, the fantastic outdoor options/parks, the rail system (fancy for us non-subway people!), the seasons, the weather/lack of humidity, the people.
I can only imagine starting over after 8 years. My heart is with y'all as you head west!!!
Good luck! You seem like you love NY but I can see your reasons for leaving! I can't even move out of my zip code!
Best wishes with your move. I lived in Denver-Littleton for a while. It has great people, tons of fun mountain adventures, hot springs,skiing,and a quick refreshing rain almost every afternoon in the summer. It is one of my favorite places.
1)Boulder is absolutely a beautiful town and a beautiful gateway to the Rockies. 2)Wendy and Rick will be close by. 3)I'll get to see you more often (I hope) - a plus for me.
Moving is a big deal, especially with a large family! Hope all goes well for the Blairs. Love you.
You will be fine!! We moved from Utah to NH a couple of years ago and though I miss some things about UT, there are many new and exciting things here too. I'm sure that will be the case with Colorado!! Good luck!!
Well, I offer no words of inspiration save this: You strike me as someone who creates a home from the inside out. I have felt comforted, inspired, touched and happy from reading your blog for years now. I have no doubt that you'll carry that gift with you across the country and it will blossom from the inside of your house and spread to the rest of us.
Love that you're out west with me!
My husband and I moved to the Denver metro area from L.A. about a year ago. I'm a total beach girl, but I have to admit that Denver is pretty great. Lots and lots of sunshine, a great place for kids (I have a 6 month old daughter), fun places to discover, and really nice people. Oh, and the Tattered Cover bookstore is really awesome! I have a feeling you'll really like it here :)
Aw nuts! I am going to miss you in May for your session. I'll catch you in Denver, k?
Have fun, sounds like an adventure.
Wendy @ blue lily
I would love to live in CO. What an awesome state! Snow skiing in the Winter and Hiking in the Summer. You won't know what to do with all the sunshine after living in the hazy big city.
It will be an adventure. And your children will LOVE IT!! Trust me on that.
I grew up there, and loved it. Just head to the mountains and you will fall in love with Coloradao when you hear the wind blowing through the Aspens.
Oh I'm so sorry that you're sad to leave NY! But I'm so sure that your family will love living in Colorado - what a fabulous adventure. I can't wait to see how you decorate your new house. Those are my favorite posts of yours - when you show a sneak peek inside your home - call me a voyeur; it's true! Happy travels, and accept whatever help is offered during and after the move! I have only been skiing in Colorado, so I don't have any recommendations other than SKI!
It's going to be wonderful, Gabby. You will love the sunshine (300+ days!), and the space. I nannied there for six years, and grew up there myself, so know lots about kid to-dos if you need anything. It's beautiful. It's warm. It has happy healthy people. Enjoy!
I just moved to NYC from Denver and miss it like crazy. Especially the sun.
Hi! I don't have time to read all the comments, so I might be repeating someone. We just went to Denver to visit my grandmother and we took a day trip to Boulder and the girls had so much fun. I know the excitement of all the fairs and festivals on Pearl St. might get boring after living there - but we had a blast. And Estes Park is a close drive and that was just named one of the top 10 places to visit in the next 5 or 10 years or something. (Sorry I'm not very accurate!) We also went there and hung out at the YMCA there - gorgeous view and it was fun to see all the elk wandering around. Have a fun adventure - full of possiblity and excitement! I'm a little jealous! St. Louis isn't bad, just not as glam as NY or Boulder. I LOVE your blog!
What an adventure you and your family are going to have! I don't live in Colorado, but Lara (my partner in goodsforgoodnesssake.com) does and she loves it. Good luck with the move!
Gabby, you'll get a million pieces of advice...and mine is nothing new.
Moving from NY was hard. Exciting to be able to give our family more...more room, more career growth, etc. But hard to leave the friends we had there.
It was awful for a good 6 months. Every day I wished I was back there.
It wasn't until I put myself out there and made new friends that things were bearable.
Now, I absolutely love it and hardly think of NY.
My one piece of advice...host dinner parties. Have as many families over as often as you can. It makes it so much easier!
GOOD LUCK!
xoxo,
Laura
We moved to a new city with no family and no friends 7 years ago. Sure there is a bit of adjustment, but now, 2 house and 2 kids later, it's really home. We couldn't imagine leaving really.
Colorado was on our short list. We have TONS of college friends there and I get jealous every time i read there FB status of-- off to snow shoe with the kids, or at the hot springs with hubby. It seems like there is tons to do there and a real family atmosphere.
I pray your move is safe and everyone adjusts well. Your family seems close and i'm sure that will make this adventure that much more fun.
Good luck! And thanks for letting us all ride with you through this season.
I feel for you. (In New Zealand) we moved from Auckland to Wellington (via London - long story) and I was such an Auckland big city girl...but as I opened myself up to our new city, we love it soooooooooo much more. We started our blog straight after our move to keep our family in touch with our daughters and all their goings on...www.ourdaisychain.blogspot.com A new adventure will be stimulating for your lovely family and a wonderful opportunity for you all. Big hug. Sarah from New Zealand...x
I've never lived in Colorado but I went through major moves as a kid. One from NJ (close to all what NYC had to offer) to South America and then from there to Texas yrs later. Both times I didn't want to leave. Both times, and in hindsight, it provided me with many new adventures and friends. It may be hard at first but the long term is always good. How fun to start a new adventure! :)
I have to say that I'm so jealous of you! I'm from Denver and live in Greece now and soooo wish I was moving back there. Colorado is an amazing place to live - the sun is almost always shining, there are thousands of things to do for families, and it is just so beautiful. Everyday. Enjoy. Some little gems of neighborhoods to check out are the Highlands and Pearl Street (Denver, not Boulder)
Enjoy your new adventure!
My family just moved from Las Vegas to Connecticut last year. It is definitely emotional, but it took me about eight months to realize that. I really wasn't sad until the middle of winter - I suppose you can figure out why! I would love to be moving to Colorado right now. Beautiful mountains, skiing, people... As much as I'm enjoying our East Coast experience, I'm still a Westerner at heart. Just remember it will be rough on your kids - even the young ones! They won't be able to tell you but you'll probably notice differences in behavior once you've moved. Be patient. They will adapt, just don't get frustrated with them (like I did). Have fun packing!
We just relocated in August from Southern California to Broomfield, Colorado. Broomfield is part of Denver metro and adjacent to Boulder. We moved for similar reasons--SoCal is just too expensive. We have two boys, 9 and 7, and I have to say that we all love it here. Our first winter was very mild, very little snow. It is sunny 300 days out of the year. There is a lot of stuff for the kids to do here. The communities are very well planned with pools and community centers. There is a ton of shopping and new stuff being built constantly. There are a lot of young families--lots of kids. Some of the schools are a bit overcrowded, but they are well-run and maintained. The best thing about the schools is that they apply their Gifted and Talented program to a large variety of kids by making small programs to meet specific needs, as opposed to just one group. The property taxes are a little high, but compared to New York, I'm sure they aren't too bad. Overall, it was a great move to a great place.
You'll love Colorado! There is so much to do, so many beautiful natural areas, great boutiques, friendly people. It will be a great place to raise your kids, all that high-mountain air, wide-open space, and western hospitality. My in-laws live near Colorado Springs and we always look forward to visiting.
Yes, leaving New York will be very hard, but Colorado has so much to offer, I think you will be surprised how happy you are there. My husband and I have spent a lot of time in the Denver and Boulder areas, visiting family and friends.
I have a great memory of sitting outside in Boulder on a beautiful winter day, drinking beer and people watching. Of course that was pre-children, but we are anxious to go back now with them to share all the great outdoor activities that are so easily accessible there!!
Good luck with the move - packing is not fun, but the adventure will be!!
All the best - Vanessa
We moved a year ago from a neighborhood I loved. I built our "dream house" intending to stay there forever. We lived there for six years and I was happy. I had friends and I loved, loved, loved my kids school. But the commute was too much for my husband so I agreed to sell.
We moved into an old fixer-upper complete with brown tile, ants and an overgrown yard. I mourned. Then one day, it all clicked and I realized I love my new friends and my new/old house fits me even better than my previous house.
It is hard. I understand your feelings. But it is amazing how, with time, your "new" life becomes your life.
Luckily you have your cyber friends, and church. I can't imagine moving without church to meet friends. Since I have moved several times in the last few years, I have realized it takes about a year for me to feel fully settled.
Awww. Good luck. We moved from DC to Utah last year, and it has been better-sweet. We miss DC and our friends there dearly. Good things: We are closer to extended family, I get to watch the sun come up over the mountains each morning, we can afford to take trips and pay off debts and take lessons, we have made friends and our children are in EXCELLENT schools. You will love it, and you will also love memories and going back to visit.
Change is hard. That's just the truth. And leaving a place and people that you love is not fun. But, here are the good things - NY will be there, and you WILL go back, because you love it. But now you have the chance to learn to love a new place, expand your idea of home. And the people you love will still be in your life. I left NYC almost 4 years ago, but my best friends are still those friends I made there. Technology is an amazing tool to keep us in each others lives. AND,now you get the chance to add to the listif people you love.
Allow yourself the space to mourn while remaining optimistic about the possibilities - that's the trick. Good luck, excited to see the adventure unfold.
Wow. What a move. I recently moved to Australia from the US. It was scarey to think I wouldn't be around my family and friends but I also knew that when I got here I would have a ward family, sisters in Relief Society and that I would be able to make new friends. Its been everything I hoped and needed it to be. I am sure you will find the same in Colorado. Good luck. Moving is still no fun!
Wow, good luck. Moving takes all sorts of energy so remember to be EXTRA kind to yourself - for the next couple of months at least. I still have a special place in my heart for New York. It is strange to think of you not being there. But now I'll imagine you taking sunny, rocky, hikes in cool sneaks. Best of luck. The physical work of moving is a pain, BUT, I love the opportunity to asses and simplify belongings. Good luck.
If you pass through Cleveland let us know.
Wow - a ton of responses. We live in Littleton (suburb of Denver).
Climate is WAY better here than NY. WAY less trash on the streets. People are generally healthier. Lots to do outdoors - for more of the year than in NY.
Welcome to CO!!
And at least one man does read your blog...
I can't wait to hear about your adventures and any neato moving tips that you find. Colorado is lovely and I know my husband would be jealous as he'd like to move somewhere with seasons. You are so strong and you get to take your very favorite things about New York with you: Ben Blair and all those great kids!
I grew up in colorado and my family all still live there. It is a great place to grow up. Did you know residents can buy really cheap season passes to ski and snowboard? And the mountains, at any given point, on any given day can catch you off guard with their beauty and their ever changing look. The people are crazy friendly, there are lots of great restaurants (Not NY, but easily as many in Denver as there are in my current home of Boston) and the outdoor lifestyle is unmatched by any other place I have ever lived (and I have lived in my fair share of places). I soooo miss summers of eating dinner outside without bugs and humidity.
There are tons of other transplants...and it is easy to make friends. And yes...your dollars will go alot farther than they will in NY. My favorite neighborhoods are in the City of Denver and I love boulder...but many of the suburbs are nice too. Exciting weather will become something you and your family enjoy..and crave...you will get alot of it...and it will be so fun.
Email if you need advice about places, towns, schools, etc. etc.
good luck -- it will be ok.
Well, I have been lurking and reading your blog for quite some time now and figured now is a good time for me to chime in.
We have lived all over (South Carolina, Texas, Georgia, Florida...to name a few) and have been in Colorado (Highlands Ranch) for about 5 years now. We never plan to leave if we can help it. We do really LOVE it here. It is a great place to live and raise a family. The weather is awesome....and there is so much to do.
I hope I will get to meet you. I was just thinking that I would love to have someone teach me some fundamentals on blogging (I am trying to get mine going). Maybe you could teach a class once you are here...I know many that would be interested.
Good Luck to you and your family as you take on this new adventure. Ain't Life Awesome?
I know exactly how you feel. It's hard to leave a home you love. BUT, Colorado is SO wonderful. It is gorgeous and offers so much to do. In the winter, there is skiing and sledding. In the spring/summer/fall there is camping and hiking. Your children will love it, and so will you! I wish you the best of luck and everything will be just fine. xoxoxo
You'll love Denver/Boulder! We lived there for 3 years and our son was born there. (We moved to California in 2007.) I haven't read through all the comments so I may repeat things but things that are fun: the zoo, Washington Park (called Wash Park by locals), Boulder. The crepe place in Cherry Creek (can't remember it's name, but it has the best fruit salad!). Watching a Rockies baseball game. KBCO radio station (97.3). Also, I know a GREAT pediatrician in Denver. Email me if you're interested: maneyrk at gmail dot com
I moved to Denver from the East Coast (DC) a year and a half ago. While I miss the ocean and I wish it was a little greener in the summer, it is a wonderful place to live. Denver is a city with all of the museums, theater, live music, cute boutiques, etc. that you could want, but with a slower pace and really nice people. Besides the children's museum, aquarium and zoo, I think your kids will love the stock show which starts with a parade (of horses, bulls, etc.) through downtown Denver. Plus, you will be really close to incredible hiking, camping, skiing, rafting, biking, etc. Go to Rocky Mountain National Park in the early fall to see hundreds of elk (it's mating season). Oh, and Boulder has a great Farmer's market. Denver is definitely different than NY, but your family is going to find lots to love about it.
Moving IS emotional! We are in Denver and live close to downtown. We didn't know what to expect from moving here especially since we didn't know anyone! Now we love it and have so many friends. We didn't plan on moving here long term but now I am not so sure we will leave.
How fun that you may be near us…I am an avid follower of your blog!
You will love Denver/Boulder!!! Two of my absolute favorite places. My brother/family live there, so we visit often and are always very, very sad to leave.
You'll have fun checking out Pearle Street in Boulder. The biking and hiking opportunities are endless around the area - start with Mt. Beirstadt for an easy first 14-er. And the people are very friendly and welcoming, you'll make friends quickly.
Keep your chin up with the packing/moving!
I see my friend Janssen was your first post. She is one of the first friends I made when we moved to Texas from Arizona just over 2 years ago. I was full of much dread (mostly because I was 4 1/2 months pregnant), but we love it here and have made great friends and had wonderful adventures. Good luck and I hope you move to the "excitement" stage of moving soon!
I know I'm a little behind on this comment, but I am really excited for you! I've never even been to New York so I can only imagine how amazing it must be, but I live (& grew up) in Colorado and absolutely love it! The weather. The sunshine. The people. Everything. I've lived other places for a short duration each time and I can never wait to get back here! I hope that it brings you just as much joy!
I have done it.
THREE times.
It is hard. It isn't fun.
But you will survive and be better for it in the end.
I did Southern California to Chicago.
Then CHicago to San Francisco
Then back down to Southern California.
All with kids.
Get organized. Do as much research on line BEFORE you go as possible. (seriously. I mean map out how to get to ER from your new home BEFORE you move. One day someone will hit their brother with a golf club and you will be standing in your driveway with a bloody toddler and not know where to go!!! Oh wait- that was me. But you get the point)
Research-dry cleaners, babysitting services, grocery stores, craft stores (very important!) and all the rest.
Then by the time you arrive- it will feel...slightly more familar.
But the best advice? Enjoy it.
Change is stimulating and thrilling. And if you can't keep that pollyanna attitude. Break into the wine.
:)
I heard the friends in CO aren't as fun as the friends in NYC.
We lived in Colorado eight years ago. I LOVED it!! We live in NYC right now, and I would absolutely trade it for Colorado in a heartbeat! And I love, love, love Manhattan- so that is really saying a lot. Sooo much sunshine- the weather is amazing there in all the four seasons. Friendly people. Beautiful outdoors. Affordable living. And Denver is a big city (with a temple!) so you will have most of what you really need. Of course, there really is so much about the East coast that you will miss, but you will trade it for something different. Different and fantastic.
Rocky Mt. National Park - sublime!
The best part may be that you will be closer to Jordan.
I know I just emailed you, but I almost forgot that one of the best things about Denver is that it boasts on average 300 days of sunshine a year. Hard to get too bluesy when the sun is out!
You should definitely give yourself some time to mourn, so then you can truly be excited about all the things your family is going to get to experience. I have friends who moved to Colorado two years ago and were very apprehensive. They have adjusted well and LOVE it!
Colorado has more sunshine than almost anywhere else. Parks everywhere! Hikes and picnics on a moments notice! Fresh air, wide open spaces, and the friendliest people. Room to garden, grow flowers... you will love it!
That is so exciting - your family will love being here - my husband was born & raised in Boulder and we lived there for 10 years before heading to a smaller colorado mt. town!
It is SUNNY here 300+ days a year - even in the dead middle of winter! Your vitamin D levels will LOVE you for this!
xo, jenny :)
Yet another former Denverite chiming in about the amazing weather. Even when you get completely dumped on by snow, the sun comes out to melt it so fast that you actually miss the snow--which means you never get that "oh, god, when is the snow going to go away?" feeling like we do here in Chicago. It helps keep the snowy days quite magical (except when you're trying to go to the airport).
And even after 18 years away, I still miss the mountains something fierce. Just go lay out under the stars in the mountains in summer, and you will swear you are in heaven.
Oh, you'll love it! Go to the melodrama in Durango during the summer, it's a ton of fun. Alpine slides are awesome too. You'll love the new adventure!
I am not from Colorado, but my sister and her family moved to Colorado Springs last year. We love it every time we go. We just got back actually and we went to a children's museum in Denver, my son was in love with it. they had a train room! WE love Garden of the Gods in Colorado springs and I love all the outdoorsy things! We would love to move there one day.
I have to say that I'm sad for you. I lived in New York for 2 years and loved every minute of it! I miss it dearly. Now I live in East Tennessee which is NOTHING like Manhattan. Colorado will be pretty---mountains, plenty of things to do. BUT, soak up the city before you leave. Make a list of every single little thing you want to do before you leave and do them. Leave no stone unturned. You'll always be able to go back but it won't be the same as living there. Take some time and unwind at one of my fav spots-- the waterfall at 53rd between Madison and Fifth.
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i left NYC after having spent the decade of my 20s there... and it was super hard... it is such a wonderful place, but now five years into my new life in texas... i have more friends I love here than almost anywhere I've lived. it is fun to go back and soak in the city and see my old friends... but the truth is, home is where my family is... a place is what you make of it, not what it makes of you.
good luck. i'm sure you will find a wonderful life. and think of all the space you'll have in yor ew place. YAY!
xo
I moved from Philly to Colorado 5 years ago. I cried, gained 15lbs and watched Oprah everyday for the first 2 months I lived here. I snapped out of it and realized how incredibly wonderful this state is! The weather is fantastic - blizzard one day, 60 degrees the next day. The rec. centers are on every corner next to the park! You'll love it here! Good luck.
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We moved from Chicago to San Francisco last year. It was bittersweet. We moved to be with family, but Chicago is such a rockin' place and we made great friends there. Not to mention that both my kids were born there, and we were actually able to buy a house! So I totally understand where you are.
Moving is a total pain. I tackled it by purging a lot. A LOT. and still, we have boxes here and I'm thinking, 'why did we take this with us???' I made lists, packed a few boxes per day, took it easy...and it still wasn't enough to keep things from going haywire! But it all works out.
You will love Colorado. I have friends from there who would go back in a heartbeat. It's an adventure, indeed.
I lived in CO for a few months while interning as my last semester of grad school. Boulder is WONDERFUL People in CO live such a healthy, active and cultured lifestyle. The weather is GORGEOUS almost year round (and I'm from Hawaii, so for me to say that the weather is gorgeous really means that it is!) You and your family will surely after some time grow to love it. :o)
Pretty soon, Graeter's Ice Cream will be in Denver. This is wonderful news because Graeter's is the best in the whole world. Plus, my brother lives there so, it can't be all bad! Take heart dearie! I hate moves too. (I get too attached to things and people).
Coming from someone who moved quite a bit as a child (3 Elementary Schools, 2 Middle Schools, 2 High Schools and 2 different states) change is a good, positive thing. I never thought I would feel that way let alone say it, but it really allowed me in my adult life to adapt to change and even in some cases...embrace it. You may even want to consider something....a new place offers new spaces to fill with possibilites, new memories, momentos and perhaps a new sense of style in home decor. This will also allow a great opportunity to go through all that is in your current house and rid yourselves of what isn't necessary and allow for things you need or want. Also positive....New York will always be there to visit!! Best wishes to you and your family...
I am originally from Colorado, and you will LOVE it! I grew-up south of Denver (the Tech Center), and I think it is a great place. I would move back there in a heartbeat!
Moving is so hard (we're moving to Virginia this summer), but it will be good. Really, you can't go wrong with Colorado. The weather is awesome! You will be just in time for the beautiful summers-- some of the most amazing clouds and sunsets you will ever see.
Good luck!
I knew someone who moved from Colorado to LA and wanted to move back to Colorado every day. I bet your kids love the outdoors!
Good luck and remember without risk there is no reward!
I love the Boulder area! Pearl street is always fun to visit. Also the mountains around Boulder are amazing, especially if you like to hike or go mountain biking!
Boulder is Beautiful! They have tons of programs and activities happening during the whole year for families and more! Great shopping and awesome outdoor activities. Most people are super friendly.
I would love to be moving to Colorado after the PhD is done in June...It seems like an ideal place to raise a family. I was having dinner at Lisa (Blair) Sabey's house last August and she mentioned your blog. I exclaimed, "I love Design Mom! I have been reading her blog for a long time!"...I am married to her Nephew Ben Sabey. I think you'll find many delightful days awaiting you in Colorado...Lucky you!
We are preparing for a move from Southern California to Portland, Or. The other day was such a typical, gorgeous SoCal day.
I told my husband "on days like this I have to remind myself of the lives we can lead away from here." The weather does not outweigh the cost of living. And we will always visit!
So in times of wonder at your audacity to leave such a great city I would just try to remember how much your family will gain from the move.
We live in Hawaii and visit my sister-in-law and her family in Denver as much as we can.
Things I love about Colorado: Contemplating climbing mountains. The smell of the clean, crisp air. Tons of stuff to do but it's still "country". Estes Park (cute little town!). The aspens. Ghost towns. Beautiful drives. And a keen awareness of God's beauty in everything around you.
Can't help but think of this when I look at the mountains:
Psalm 121:1 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
i am so happy.... it's so much closer! i am bound and determined to have some of our kids become friends... If your kids have you for a mom, then my kids will be blessed to know them.
Good luck!
My niece lives there and loves it, she is expecting number 4. NY is $$. I live here and often think of moving to a place to live for less $$.
i've never been to colorado, but i'm psyched for you. i have ALWAYS wanted to live there. i hear that living there actually makes you cooler. something in the air or something.
I don't know anything about Colorado, but I do know about moving. I've moved seven times in the last ten years. Every move was for a good reason; each one was scary (well, not the one where I moved to be with my future husband :); each one turned out to be a good one. Two years ago my husband and I packed up our house and twin toddlers and moved from Greensboro, North Carolina (which, believe it or not, had actually been home for most of those ten years) and moved to West Virginia for a new job for my husband. We are not outdoorsy people, but we have found and created a wonderful life in our new state. I still miss things about our old life (such as driving by the first house that my husband and I shared or the building where we found out we were having twins), but we have already created many wonderful new memories here. You will do the same in Colorado. Good luck with the move.
I have never been to New York so I can't say how Colorado will be better or worse. Of course, none of that even matters because each new place holds new adventures and each "old" place holds precious memories.
I am a mom in academia with 3 kids living in Fort Collins. Colorado is a spectacular place to raise children.
Big "hits": Weather (oh, the sunshine!!!), local food/music/craft scene, open space! I live in town, 1/2 mile from a grocery store, and still have land for gardens, sheep (and kids!!). All for less than $400k (on the bubble!)
Welcome.
We recently moved to the Boulder, CO area. We lived in NYC for graduate school and then moved out west. We were in SLC, UT for a number of years and then move to Boulder for my husband's job. I have 4 children and they have adjusted quite well. After a lot of research we really have loved the schools we settled on. Lots of walking paths and healthy living. As a big fan of your blog I'd like to welcome you to the neighborhood!
My sister-in-law lives in Colorado Springs, and my husband's college roommate is a doctor in Denver. They both are from Atlanta. They love love love Colorado. The Denver art museum is extraordinary, and Colorado Springs has the Garden of the Gods. There are lots and lots of other things. If we ever move Colorado will be one of our top choices.
172 people have already given you positive vibes I'm sure. I grew up in Western Canada with beautiful mountains, lakes and fir trees. I married and landed outside Chicago IL where I've never fully adapted to the flat lands so I'm over exicted for you that you get to go to CO...I've always been hinting at my husband that we should find a job there but no luck so far. I'm so excited for all your hiking adventures! I love Denver CO and just think you are such a lucky family. Good luck with the move, the new ward and finding your way around CO.
P.S. if you really are driving cross country and feel like stopping in Chicago feel free to give me a call! We have plenty of room! Rather a random offer but totally serious!
Stoop or yard sale to come? I would so be there.
I'm a native New Yorker (actually went to high school with your sis-in-law, Liz!) and have lived in Colorado for the past six years. First in a mountain town, and for the past two years in Boulder. Needless to say, I haven't looked back.
It's beautiful here -- great weather. Amazing restaurants. In fact, Boulder is one of the most perfect places to raise a family. There are tons of kiddos running around and it is safe to let your older kids ride bikes/walk to school. Everyone is outside and playing as much as possible. There is so much to do outside as a family it is almost overwhelming. I'm sure you will all see the mountains and the sunshine and start smiling right away.
PS -- Niwot is a really great little community if that's what you are looking for. It's just north of Boulder
You're right. Moving is frightening and full of change. But it's also exciting and full of promise/hope. Colorado is a beautiful place. I'm excited for you and yours.
P.S. That's a great pic. Where is it from?
P.P.S. How are things going with Kirtsy?
You will love Colorado -- but it may take some time to adjust from leaving a fantastic city like NY. The weather hear is awesome. THe pace of life is just perfect. And you're in the middle of the country. All the easier to visit either coast.
p.s. I know that I misspelled "hear" -- typo.
I know of so many people moving lately. And a good time considering the tax raises!! Colorado is on my top 5 places I'd like to move to if I had to...a good reason to be excited: you can do some grand cool posts about organized moves!
You'll do GREAT. I picked up and moved from NYC to New Orleans 11 years ago and didn't know a single person. I had never even been to New Orleans. I was terrified, but also excited to embark on a new venture. Honestly, it took me a good 2 years to acclimate to the change of pace and the climate. However, I didn't have any kids and was single. With kids, it's a whole new ballgame, but a better one. Now that I have a toddler, I find it's actually easier to meet people. Moms always seem to connect to other moms and there are so many networking opportunities.
But you know what? You don't need any advice. You're a pro at connecting with people and this is going to be the start of a great, new adventure for your family.
I loved growing up in the City and having access to all the museums and the park and the theater. It was awesome. But quite honestly, I love having a backyard and being able to blow up the pool, pour a glass of wine and sit with my kid in the water in the middle of summer. I wouldn't trade that for anything.
Good luck!
Um, I will miss having you & Ben Blair close by.
But, my mother-in-law is in Steamboat Springs and not I have yet another reason to visit Colorado.
Think of all that beautiful fresh air and inspiration. ahhhhhh.
I live in Jackson Hole, have many friends in both Denver and Boulder visiting there multiple times a year. Boulder is a great town. VERY kid friendly but offers enough grown up stuff that you wont get bored. Great restaurants in both cities if you need suggestions. Leaving NYC must be hard but once you create your roots you will find the adventures that await you in a mountain community are endless. Nature is calling. I work in mountain tourism so ask me anything about the towns, states, surrounding states, etc. My advice is heartfelt, experienced by me and my family and free.
Oh my goodness! Of all the places to live, Colorado is the best of all! (Although..I've never lived in NY, and I'm sure it would be hard to beat). :) And you are moving at the most perfect time! April is gorgeous. And then you get to enjoy the beautiful summer! I grew up in Littleton before I came to BYU. My family is still there, I cherish every visit. The people, the scenery, the mountains, the sports, the sunshine, the restaurants, the shopping, the landscape, the schools, the culture, the outdoors... it's ALL wonderful!
My husband and I are Columbine High School 2002 graduates and we genuinely have nothing but good memories. The church and the communities there are solid. I am who I am because of that place and those people. Good luck to you and your family! I can't wait to hear about your adventures there! I wish you all the best!
I have been married for 8 & 1/2 years and we are getting ready for our 10th move!! Yikes!! And, it won't be the last since we'll just be renting until we find a house to buy. I've learned a ton, I've cried a lot and I've loved every phase we've been through. I love having good friends to help me out. I love the newness of introducing our family. I love the change and struggles we go through together as we root ourselves into a new routine. I miss the good things after we've moved, but I love discovering the new things, like the best kept secret bakery, or the best children's bookstore; or the distance to the closest library. Those are the things I look forward to with each move! Good luck with it all!!
Hope that's not really your car! Great story, you'll love it Boulder, especially if you like to hike or bike.
Bill Hendrick
Home Savings of America
Boulder, CO
bhendrick@yourloanteam.com
Things I love about Denver/Boulder, Colorado~
1.) You can grow the most deliciously splendid tomatoes ever.
2.) Sun. It's glorious.(I moved here from Seattle)
3.)Fast friends are made here.
4.)Fabulous Mexican restaurants.
5.)First Friday Artwalks on Tennyson and Santa Fe.
6.)April tulips on Pearl St. in Boulder. (Good timing for your move!)
7.)The store 'Fancy Tiger' on Broadway in Denver (lovely fabrics/yarn)
8.)The native/early american- inspired food and view from the restaurant 'The Fort' just south of Boulder.
9.)Great architecture and old victorian homes
10.)The Molly Brown museum in Denver
11.) The Colorado History Museum - we can spend HOURS there.
Welcome!!
Your moving HERE!!? I am SO happy!!! Please let us know what we can do to help you. It would be OUR pleasure.
Take comfort in dreaming of more outdoor adventures for you and your brood. I love to pull out my copy of Rachel Carson's "The Sense of Wonder" and think of all the benefits of a slower, more nature-oriented pace of life.
Enjoy all the beauty Colorado has to offer.
My favorite thing about the Boulder area is that it's the current home of 2 of my favorite friends, from when we all lived in Nashville. Watch for Joanna & Haley and their gorgeous families; if you're very lucky, you'll cross paths.
Hi!
I have been reading Design Mom forever and live in Boulder (Niwot)
I moved here from California 8 years ago. You will fit in so well here and I would be happy to give you some tips, ideas, pointers. Thre is even a yahoo moms group called bldrrknmoms you should check out I have 3 girls ages 3,5,7 and am an interior designer/ candy buffet business owner!
kelli
kelliinc@mac.com
Wow! You seem like the kind of person that makes friends every day! And, you will find every fun and interesting thing to do, I bet. The East Coast's loss is Colorado's gain.
Denver is awesome. So many good restaurants and the shopping is great. NYC is so great and I'm sure it will be hard to leave. But the west is full of adventure!
My husband and I would give anything to leave Chicago and head back to the Denver area! Not only is the landscape dramatic and beautiful, but the people are warm and friendly, too. There's so much to do... in less than 30 minutes you're either in the mountains or in a very family-friendly downtown. Boulder is one of my favorite places on the planet - so artsy and inspiring. You're gonna love it there!
Love,love,love your blog and so happy to hear that you are moving to "my" area! I can't wait to see what you discover to write about Denver/Boulder. I moved to Boulder in 1991 from the San Francisco area and immediately fell in love; couldn't leave. Moved to the Highlands neighborhood of Denver(right above Lodo) in 2001 with my husband. There are so many things to like, most of which have been mentioned but I'll add a few. Try Sushi Sasa, Root Down, Duo (great for family brunch!), Fruition, and Luca d'Italia.Oh yeah, and especially Snooze for breakfast (kid friendly, so yummy). Try out the Title 9 Mother's Day run/walk in Boulder with the kids, or any of the millions of other run/walk events around the area. Check out the Boulder Farmer's Market on Saturdays starting soon. Stroll the Pearl Street mall on a summer afternoon. Ride bikes forever along the bike paths. Stay out of the Platte river; gross. Go to Telluride or Crested Butte summer or winter for the best of the mountains. Best to you.
You will do great. :)
Good luck with the move and packing!
I can totally relate. We're gearing up for a big move too! Moving is hard but be so encouraged that you have so many new adventures just waiting for you and your sweet family. It'll be great!
I'm a little late to hear the news. I'm glad you've dedicated these last few weeks to soaking in NYC. That's a great way to feel better.
Now, for Colorado! Think of the mountains and sky! The hiking, trails, a house with a yard (I'm assuming here), being closer to certain friends and family in Utah! I hope that you feel better since you wrote this post.
I am late to the party to respond to this...because I have been moving across the country just like you're about to! My move was from AZ to PA and it's been a challenge. Some advice: get really, really trustworthy movers, no matter the cost. It's worth it! I am 7 months pregnant and still sleeping on an air mattress a week and a half after getting here.
Boulder is beautiful!! We had the most wonderful time there at the St. Julien. Be sure to head to Tee and Cakes for a cola-flavored cupcake. Divine!
Gabrielle, We have been in Denver for two years now and love it. I spend almost everyday outside with the kids. We have grown a garden for the first time. We frequent the Botanic Gardens and the Zoo. The view of the mountains brings me more peace than any roof over my head. Please let us know if you do any workshops locally!
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