Sustaining Through Change

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Sustaining Through Change

September 1, 2009 by samsonblackwell

So. I’m moving. To Austin. As in Texas. Packing up the family and leaving in two weeks.

Yes, this is a big deal. We’ve lived in SLO now for a little over 10 years. Both of my children were born here; my sister has lived her for six years; and, of course, my mom is here. It will be hardest on her.

I don’t make this decision lightly. I know what I’m leaving behind: the weather, the beach, our friends, Bellevue Santa Fe Charter School (where both Logan and Kaia were slated to go), and my family.

But, when I shift my perspective a little to the optimisitic (which is my tendency), I can see that I’m only really leaving behind a few things, fixed by geography. The beach and the weather are a total loss. It’s hot and sticky in Austin; the beach is 3 hours away–and it’s more like a lake so surfing is out.

But everything else comes with me, thanks in large part to the wonders of the Internet. Although talking to my mom over iChat isn’t exactly the same as having a cup of coffee in her living room, it’s a damn sight better than corresponding with handwritten letters sent by snail mail. And Facebook will keep us connected to SLO in ways that we couldn’t have been 10 years ago when we moved here from Grass Valley. (I have NO idea what’s going on in Grass Valley).

There are also many things that excite me about Austin: the progressiveness of the people and the local government; my sister in law and her family; the job market; the outdoor opportunities.

I’m also excited about the opportunities this presents Hole in the Fence. Imagine how cool it will be to observe the similarities and differences between sustainability programs and services, philosophies, approaches, and attitudes. In many ways Austin and SLO are similar, in others they seem very different. I can’t wait to explore and learn. I hope you’re as excited as I am and that you’ll make the journey with us. Virtually, at least.

Posted in philosophy | Tagged austin, challenges, change, digital revolution, facebook, family, future, garden, internet, love, movement, perspective, priorities, renting, san luis obispo | 4 Comments

4 Responses

on September 17, 2009 at 2:32 pm | Reply Jen

I’m so sorry to see you go!!! You are an amazing resource to our community!! There is definitely a bright side though, I also hear that Austin is awesome. I have a few friends that live there now (all from SLO actually) and besides the heat, they LOVE it there! I know you’ll find your niche there…. don’t forget to keep us updated ok?
xoxo
Jen
- on September 18, 2009 at 1:05 am | Reply Samson
  
  Thanks so much, Jen! Austin has been awesome. And SLO still has my mom �who I learned EVERYTHING from. It’s gonna be fun re-engineering the show to accommodate two cities, and to explore my new surroundings. So far, I’m very impressed.
  
  I will totally keep you updated, and I will totally keep checking out your amazing blog. All the best!
on September 2, 2009 at 12:14 am | Reply Yo is Me

WHAT!

was my first response.

and then immediately after, i got happy for you. i’ve only heard good things about austin. there are SO MANY things to do in austin. i’m excited for your austin garden. this is great.

we’re fb friends, right? now i’ll really have to steal your mom. my evil plot is working!! mwwaaaahahahhahhaaha!!
- on September 2, 2009 at 2:58 am | Reply Samson
  
  That’s pretty much the response I’m getting.
  
  And my mom would love to be stolen by you. She thinks you’re one smart cookie. As soon as I get the Austin garden up and running, you’ll know. Probably sooner, actually, as I seem to like publicizing all my missteps to victory.