SEATTLE-d ! (And Happy Birthday Jackson Browne)

Hi folks. I've been in Seattle for four weeks! In that time I've moved into my new place, started a new job, and learned how to get around the city (basically).

As I indicated in a previous post, the job and the living space fell into place with astonishing swiftness. Whoosh indeed. I applied online and one hour later, Jill the HR person called asking if I was still interested. Less than two weeks later she offered me the job. She dazzled me with her excellent follow-up, great communication and "let's get moving" attitude. I was excited to learn that she worked in the very building where I did my computer training, in Renton. I couldn't wait to meet her! She was as nice as could be, but in the presence of this HR Rock Star, I felt like a babbling fool.

Two days after I got my job, I found the perfect place to live. Just like that. My mind continued to be blown when Lynn, the homeowner, agreed to defer rent payment until I got my first paycheck (!). I would have stopped there on the gratitude spectrum, but each day continues to reveal another layer of good fortune. How much gratitude can a person can feel? Will I burst open and rain confetti upon Seattle?

Below is a pictorial view of my life in Seattle so far, categorized and titled thusly so. And because I'm so grateful, like Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize, I'll keep my acceptance speech short. Deep thanks to my family and friends who accepted me and "got" what I was doing on my 10 month journey, even though it flew in the face of everything "rational." Even fewer got it during the entire four years. For that I thank Mom, Sam, Val, Mike, Drea, Mag, Annie, Zee, and Joyce.

And yes, I will be keeping up with the blog. Let the next chapter begin!