It has been quite a week around here! Since my last post, we have moved and (somewhat) settled in to our new place. It’s been great, but so exhausting. There was the part of the move that was tiring in the way that is to be expected- moving and unpacking boxes, walking up and down steps, staying up late and getting up early, etc. Those physical effects are one thing, and while they make you tired, typically you go back to your normal schedule and recover rather quickly.
We were pretty much done with the physical move by Friday afternoon. I went on a short run Saturday morning around the new neighborhood in beautiful weather. (Sidenote- I am already known as the the girl in the blue socks- someone actually said that to Rob later that day). Of course we had more errands to do over the weekend but we generally weren’t as busy as we had been over past weekends.
Since then, I have realized that I am mentally drained. Things are different, and it’s been stressful to adjust and adapt. I couldn’t figure out why 5 days after our move I was still so tired and had zero moments to write a post or read any other posts, but over the past two days it hit me, that all of this is more emotional that I had realized.
It’s not only the stress that goes along with owning a home- that is certainly part of it. It’s having this big space with two people, where we don’t know where we put anything. It’s having to hide in the closet to get changed because we don’t have anything on our windows yet. It’s getting used to commuting to work, and figuring out how to get by with one car. It’s not knowing when or where I will be able to workout. It’s not knowing where to find anything in our new grocery store. It’s so many thing.
I also haven’t figured out my morning workout routine. I still have my gym membership in the city, but if I go there in the morning then Rob doesn’t get a ride to work. I need to cancel my gym membership and find a new, local gym, but I just haven’t been able to wrap my head around that yet.
Last night at dinner I was explaining to Rob how “easy” it was when we moved into our place 5 years ago, and how much more overwhelming this has been for me so far. When we moved into our apartment I had everything within 2 miles of where I lived. I was able to avoid leaving my bubble as much as possible.
I know that things will fall into place, but it will take some time. It may mean that days- or weeks- go by without blogging. It may mean that I only get to work out one or two days a week, or make time for it in the evenings. It may even mean that a whole day goes by without our bed being made! (This actually happened today, and I survived).
I am working on letting go of my tendencies to have everything organized and in order, because these days it’s just not happening. All of these changes have forced me to accept that there are things I won’t be able to control, but that it’s not the end of the world.
Have you ever had a life change that forced you to accept things that you can’t control?
Are you good at adjusting and adapting to the things that are thrown at you?
Thanks Amanda, for giving me the chance to think out loud about all of this!
Michele @ paleorunningmomma says
Your house looks gorgeous, congrats on being settled in, at least mostly 🙂 for me there were so many times I should have learned to accept chaos but it’s really an ongoing struggle – parenting has been the biggest lesson, probably not until after the second child 🙂 glad things are going well, I’ve been thinking of you!
[email protected] says
Oh I am going to be in for a rude awakening when I have kids. This is probably good practice for learning to just accept the chaos and let go of control:)
meredith @ The Cookie ChRUNicles says
It totally takes time to adjust, you will soon, I promise! I missed you by the way! And oh, I recall covering some windows with paper towels while waiting for the shades. Just take a strip to the length of the window and tape it. It’s not classy but it works well enough.
[email protected] says
I am currently trying to talk Rob into the paper towel idea:) We actually did get some temporary shades for our bedroom and bathroom (although the bathroom ones keep falling down) and we finally ordered real shades so they should be up within a few weeks. But I might need to do the paper towel thing in the basement where I work out. We have a huge sliding door and windows down there and its a walk out basement so you can see right in. Either that or we will put up old curtains for our apartment that don’t match the carpet.
Chrissy @Pink Polish and Running Shoes says
I can totally sympathize. I’m a creature of habit. I like knowing what my routine is, when I can workout, etc. Anything that disrupts my normal schedule can throw me off and give me major anxiety. Try to hang in there until everything feels normal again. You’ll get used to all of the changes, but it takes time.
[email protected] says
Thanks! You are definitely right…I just need to let go of the idea that I can continue following the strict schedule that I was used to before!
Erin says
I’m going through that right now. I moved to the UK to live with my husband one month ago and I have days where I’m so overwhelmed by setting up my routines. It’s really hard. I am totally going to make a posters out of the “take things as they come to you” and ” accept what is, let go of what was, and have faith in what will be”. I really need that about now. Good luck with everything, Lisa!
[email protected] says
Wow, a move to the UK is really intense. I’m sure that’s a pretty big transition for you. Even though moves like this are good and exciting, they are still stressful! Good luck and I am sure we will both settle in before we know it:)
Susie @ SuzLyfe says
Hey, a HOUSE is very very different from an apartment. And I think there is a lot more self induced pressure to LOVE it immediately because you designed it, etc, you know? But just know that the adjustment will take time, but you will be there before you know it. I’ve been lucky with my moves–I’ve always pretty much had things where I need them, so that has made the transitions easier. And when I made my biggest move (to UVA) I had my horse, which was always a comfort to me.
[email protected] says
Yes, you are absolutely right. I think there are some things that were easy to like immediately, but others will take some time to adjust to.
Laura @ This Runner's Recipes says
I’m with you, that adjustment period always messes with me because there are so many unknowns. Like, I already mapped out a running route and picked grocery stores for our move to Seattle just to have some control. You have such a balanced attitude about it and a routine will arise soon!
[email protected] says
That’s awesome and such a good idea! I actually used to live in this area before I moved in with Rob, so I knew my way around…but right now things are hectic because I’m not running much (so have been working out at gyms) and the sharing a car thing is really tricky. I am just wondering how long we will go before we cave and get another car:)
Amanda @ .running with spoons. says
I can very much relate. It used to be a lot worse for me than it is now, but I’m still not crazy about changes to my routine. I think the best way to deal with them is to look at them as a challenge to overcome instead of an annoyance that’s trying to bring you down. That helps you put on the GRRR face and kick some butt.
[email protected] says
That’s a really good way to think about things! I think that once we figure out a better commute schedule that it will reduce a lot of the stress. Traffic in itself can be super stressful!
Suzy says
My husband is a realtor, and we will tell you that moving is one of the biggest life stressors there are! Sidenote: when Jason and I moved into our brand new house 13 years ago, I was due any second to have my second son. We didn’t have blinds on our windows either, and when my water broke at night, I was naked (go figure) and I had to tear around the well-lighted house looking for the phone. It wasn’t simply the fish-bowl effect…it was more like a Vegas show. We got our blinds up pretty soon after that. 😛
[email protected] says
HAHA well that definitely puts things in perspective!! My mom keeps telling us that moving is one of the biggest challenges for a couple. While it hasn’t caused any issues between us its a whole new experience to spend multiple hours per day in the car with someone every day.
Salt says
Things will all fall into place for you soon enough! Buying a home is such an enormous undertaking compared to renting. That in itself is going to create so much more stress. I experienced a lot of similar feelings when I moved west/moved east and eventually I adjusted. It just took more time. 🙂 Congrats on the move and I love your view!
[email protected] says
I am sure that moving across the country is extremely stressful! And yes, the whole owning a home thing is alot different. But it is nice being out of the city and coming home to more space, a nice view, etc.!
Maddie@Dixie Runs says
There are so many things that you can’t really prepare for, and I love your quote about taking things as they come. Take care of your basic needs first, and slowly you will start to find time to fit everything else in. The great thing about blogging and running is that they aren’t going anywhere and they will be here when you need them most, especially when you are stressed!
[email protected] says
Exactly! Thank you! It’s actually been awesome to write and vent about this and get so much support from everyone:)
Lesley says
Any kind of moving is stressful, but a whole new location is just weird. I’m in my 3rd apartment but I’ve stayed relatively in the same area so I still have the same grocery stores, drive on the same roads, go to the same gym. It does take time but soon it’ll be your home and the stress will dissolve.
[email protected] says
Moving often is exhausting…in my 20s I moved every year. I’m sure everything will fall into place over the next few weeks!
Sara says
Everything will fall into place soon. You’ll eventually fall into your new routines in your new neighborhood and you’ll wonder what you were so stressed about. Congrats on the house and the move!
[email protected] says
Thanks, and you are definitely right!!
Nicole@Thegirlwhoraneverywhere says
I’m so glad you posted today because I love hearing your new home updates! It’s totally fine that you haven’t posted. I will be here awaiting Lisa news as soon as you are ready 🙂
ENJOY!!!
[email protected] says
Thank you!! I have missed everyone and have skimmed through blogs when I’ve had time but just haven’t gotten around to commenting. I can’t believe how close Boston is!! Getting excited for you!!:)
Marcia says
Congrats on the move. That is a huge life change for sure. Your view is tranquil and beautiful but I know you need some privacy. : )
We moved to Europe one month after getting married so yes, I’m familiar with everything being turned upside down. My only advice is go with the flow and enjoy the ride! Things will settle.
[email protected] says
Wow a move to Europe a month after your wedding?! I would have been so stressed! But I’m sure it turned out great and I know this will too. Thanks for your support:)
Sarah @pickyrunner says
Your new home is absolutely gorgeous! I do get that it takes a lot of adjusting. It shouldn’t be that different, but it is, because you get used to your routine that you’ve been in and you could keep it, but it makes life way more complicated. You will get used to a new gym and a new grocery store. The commute will begin to feel normal. But it does take time. I still have a hard time not doing all of my grocery shopping at Trader Joe’s despite not living across the street anymore. Hang in there and pretty soon you’re going to be like “why did I ever miss that life?”!
[email protected] says
You are definitely right! But Baltimore traffic is seriously awful.
I am actually really excited because now I am near a Whole Foods and Fresh Market whereas before I only went to Harris Teeter. I just need to find a “cheaper” grocery store to get certain things at because I will go broke shopping at WF every week!
Lauren says
Moving is stressful. I’ve got some bigger life changes ahead of me in a few months and the adjustment period always sucks!
[email protected] says
Yep, even when the changes are good they are still stressful just because they are different! Good luck!
Ashley @ A Lady Goes West says
Hi Lisa! I know, I know! Change is hard. But I bet in a few days or weeks everything will have fallen into place, and you won’t think about this tough transition. The gym/ride issue is hard. Are there other neighbors to carpool with for Rob? Any public transport? Maybe you can start doing lunch workouts at your gym in the city? Who knows! But don’t fret – a new normal will emerge and all will be well. You are totally valid with your concerns though.
[email protected] says
We do have public transportation but its a 25 minute walk from our house to the train. So he has done that a few times but I feel kind of bad making him walk that far. I would love to workout at lunch but I barely have time to eat during the day let alone get out of the building:) Maybe we will eventually meet someone that could give Rob a ride to work! Thanks, and you are definitely right that it will take a little time but things will fall into place.
Carmy says
Glad you’re almost settled in! Love the openness/window! Natural lighting = great selfies 😉 haha!
[email protected] says
Thanks!
Pam says
Every time I move I always say “NEVER AGAIN!” but then I get antsy where I’m at and feel like I need to move again. We’ve been in this house 8 years next month. I’m feelin’ the itch.
[email protected] says
I am at that point where I am saying “never again”! But never say never, right?:)
Hailey says
I love the view from your house! I’m not so good with change though, so I totally understand how such a big change can be emotionally draining. You will settle into a new routine and start feeling back to normal soon enough 🙂
[email protected] says
Thanks! And you are definitely right, it will just take some time:)
Sara @ Lake Shore Runner says
Hi Lisa!! Last night when I was going to bed I thought to myself I wonder how Lisa’s move is going. Glad you are in the new house and for the most part settled. I know it will take sometime. When I moved in September I had a similar feeling of feeling overwhelmed because things were outside of my control and it was messing up my routine. But overtime I developed a new routine and love it way more than my old routine. You will get there! Just like anything it will take time. I am so type A that it was hard for me to just let things be how they are going to be, but that is life and sometimes you have to do it. You will figure it out soon, and feel back to yourself! Cant wait to see more of the house – love the backyard ha!
[email protected] says
Thanks! I have missed everyone and it felt good to start to reconnect today:) Moves and changes are tough, but I think that things generally work out and Im sure the stress will pass.
Amber says
Oh my gosh I totally feel you! I usually like preparing for change mentally & imagining “life on the other side” after said change happens & I’m settled again. But I have the hardest time adjusting, and it causes (unnecessary) stress. I would definitely struggle with everything you mentioned & it sucks when you wish you could just skip ahead & have it all figured out.
Take your time though- soon enough, this will just be the past, and you’ll be able to look back & be glad you got it all figured out. 🙂
[email protected] says
Yep, you are totally right! Im sure in a few weeks this will all be my new normal, it will just take little time:)
Charissa says
It sounds so stressful but I’m sure things will fall into place soon. It sounds like you’re learning a lot through this process though and it will only make you a stronger, more adaptive person moving forward. I love that quote about acceptance by the way. Just keep living it out 🙂
[email protected] says
Thanks! And I do think its been good for my OCD personality to relax a bit and stop trying to control everything:)
Beth @ RUNNING around my kitchen says
Oh I can so relate! It takes me awhile to adjust and get reset after big changes and I know the feeling of exhaustion you are talking about. You will get there. A house is a big deal and anytime you move into a bigger space, it’s a lot of change. I also think it’s hard too because you are supposed to be excited and love it immediately, but your new place doesn’t really feel like ‘home’ yet. It will though 🙂
[email protected] says
You are definitely right about that. While I do love it its almost like I feel bad complaining about the things that aren’t ideal. But I think that over time I will get used to everything and all the stress will pass.
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
I am a roll with the punches kind of gal. Moving is pretty tough, but look at it as a new adventure. And think of all the new running routes you can find!
[email protected] says
I am really excited for new running routes! I am a bit jealous that you can just go with the flow like that- its definitely something I am working on!
Jennifer says
Slowly, but surely you will eventually feel settled. I probably would feel the same way if I were in your shoes. Good luck!
[email protected] says
Thanks!
Jen@jpabstfitness says
Prior to my 4th child being born, my life was pretty golden. My 3 older kids were old enough to get themselves up and ready for school (well, the kindergartner needed assistance) and they could entertain themselves. While they were all at school for 7 hours during the day, it was my time to do whatever, whenever. Baby #4 just turned 1 last week and this last year has been a HUGE adjusting period. Some days it’s 5pm and I am just able to load the dishwasher…and other days I’m totally on top of my game. I HAATTEE feeling out of control and not having exact plans, totally feeling your pain!!!
[email protected] says
I could only imagine what that felt like! I think that any major life change can be stressful, especially for those of us who like being in control of everything!
Nicole @ Foodie Loves Fitness says
Hang in there, adjusting to big life changes takes time sometimes! Give yourself a break too – it’s okay to feel a little lost in getting it all together… but you’ll figure it out 🙂
[email protected] says
Thanks! You are definitely right. Slowly things will come together:)
Sara @ lifebetweenthemiles says
I am so far behind on getting caught up on reading blogs but I just want to say, it will get better. When we moved into our new house 1.5 years ago, I felt all the same things as you did, but eventually things like commuting, schedules, etc fell into place, it just took a few weeks. You will get there!!
[email protected] says
Thank you! I am so behind on blogging too. Slowly things are falling more into place and I know as the weeks go by I will get more and more comfortable. Thanks for your support!