Sunday Blog #2 Settling In

Sunday Blog #2    Settling In

Hi Blog Followers - It has been a week since my last blog and lots has happened in that time.  I continue to get settled in my new home and adapt to a new way of living - walking everywhere, adjusting to new pollens, up and down weather, how best to acquire the things I need and where to do my laundry.  So, here are my thoughts for the week to share with you.
If you live in an apartment/condo/coop with a super, get to know him.  Introduce yourself.  Tell him a little about yourself and why you have moved to this neighborhood.  I let my super know that I am here to help my son and daughter-in-law with my grandchildren, to become a part of their lives, and share in there lives.  Compensate your super if he does work outside of his normal scope of responsibility.  Recently I had my super hang two mini blinds in the bedroom and paid him for his time and expertise.  He was very appreciative and let me know he would be happy to help with any other "honey do" projects I may have.  This offer will come in handy when my two air conditioning units are delivered and need to be installed!  Keep him in mind if you see he does a good job around your building.  Is the trash kept picked up and tidy?  Are the hallways and elevator kept mopped?  Remember him if you travel and bring a little something back to show your appreciation.  He is your first contact if repairs need to be made.
Embrace your new neighborhood.  Take walks, explore, discover, participate in events, support your local independent shops.  Meet the owners and keep a list of their names and businesses.  Their prices may seem higher than the big box stores, but keep in mind the convenience of their proximity, especially if you don't have a car.  The price of cab fare or subway may exceed the difference in cost. I regularly dash two short blocks over to my local hardware store for batteries, a broom, curtain rods and other odds and ends as I find I need something.  Carrying a few items home each time is a lot easier and saves transportation.  My hardware store owner has been in his location for 30 years, knows the neighborhood, knows what I need before I know and is a wealth of knowledge and advice.
Seek out activities at your local library and museums.  Here in Prospect Heights, I am two blocks from both the Brooklyn Central Library, Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.  I have joined a fiber arts group that meets once a week at the library to crochet and become acquainted with my fellow fiber artists and neighbors.  Last Saturday was an opportunity to join a walking meditative group at the Botanical Garden before opening to the general public.  For $10 we were lead on a peaceful stroll through the garden in full bloom with magnolias, cherry blossoms and daffodils.  Wow!  What a way to start a Saturday.  The Farmers Market is in full swing at Grand Army Plaza with music, crafters and local farmers selling everything from duck eggs, local wine, fruit and veggies, seafood, turkey and fresh cut lavender.
Develop your routine.  Keep a balance between family requests and your own needs and interests.  Remember this is your Act II in all its gloriousness.
Be in gratitude for this opportunity to share your life with those you love and those you will meet in this new journey.                Until next time,  Alia

Sunday Blog #1

Welcome to my blog!  You may be wondering why someone is writing yet another blog about moving to NYC. Yes, there are numerous blogs about relocating to the Big Apple - good ones with lots of tips and helpful advice. However, all of the blogs I've read have one thing in common - they are written by young professionals starting their careers and making their way as young adults with the hope and enthusiasm of the "1st Act".  My blog is written from the perspective of a 60 something Boomer in her "2nd Act".
My reasons for uprooting my very comfortable, secure,and predictable life in a small town are to be near my children and grandchildren, to be part of their "village", to bond, to pass on wisdom and ritual that I was blessed with from MY grandparents.  I have joined the very fortunate and increasing numbers of grandparents journeying across the country to be an active presence in our grandchildren's lives. My journey just happens to take me to New York City and, more specifically, Brooklyn. I look forward to sharing this journey with you, my readers, to provide relevant tips geared toward our age and stage in life and maybe a little encouragement along the way!  Until next Sunday, have a joy filled week and know that you can do anything with the right intention.
Alia