Transitions

Hello world...

As people, we are always transitioning. When we wake up: we transition from dream to reality. When we communicate: we transition from speaking to listening. When we eat: we transition from hungry to satisfied (or full if you eat dessert too).

Do I still have your attention because I am about to transition to something new....

What about those transitions that require our attention. Like transitioning from player to coach, young adult to parent, town to town, job to job. Sometimes transitions are well received and a welcomed change in routine, while others may happen against our will and instead of calling it a 'transition', we say we are 'adapting'.

As a child, I am pretty sure I was not fond of frequently moving all over San Diego, but in hindsight I am happy I had that experience. Actually to this day, I never really lived in one household for more than two years. And as you may know, Phillip and I are starting international careers that provides two-year contracts. If we want to transition someplace new-we can, if we like it-we will stay. Phillip has never lived far from the ocean, and his seven years in California hold the record for longest stint in one place. Between he and I, we could bounce around the globe, near an ocean, and be very content. However...

I have a very difficult time with transition. I enjoy moving, but only because it allows me to 'purge' all of the 'stuff' we accumulated and start fresh. Aside from that, 'adapting' to the new setting has always been a challenge for me. I find that I am most successful in routine, with the understanding (of course) that things come up and we adjust.

Like this summer for example: Enjoy a sneak peek at life since June 1st: move out, unpack, repack for storage, pack suitcase for three weeks of traveling to five states with just a carry-on, come back for 11 days, go to Kauai for 8 days (not complaining at all), back for 10 days, San Diego for 9 days, Tahoe for 2 days, back for 5 days, camp for 2 days, back for 6 days, leave for Saudi Arabia.

I had to get that out. This has been the most memorable summer ever (aside from the wedding). I feel so absolutely fortunate to have the ability to be this busy, to explore, and spend time with people I care about. But to be completely honest...being out of my routine is challenging for me. I anticipated this, I looked forward to it, and I know this 'busy summer' is nothing compared to the culture shock awaiting me in Saudi. Bring it on.

So tell me...are you in a transition? What kind is it? Was it expected/unexpected? How do you respond to life's transitions?

Until next time....

-B