deep thoughts

Our new house isn't "home" yet, but the neighborhood couldn't have given us a better welcome.  There are open space entrances on 3 sides of our neighborhood and this weekend I hit the trails and enjoyed one of them.  It was no Wash Park run, but it was quiet, uncrowded and with mountain views to kill for. 

The neighbors are overwhelmingly fun and kind and a well-timed move scored us this sofa and ottoman for the basement.  This space would've been empty until we get a sectional for the upstairs family room, so-score!

The kitchen is very dated and while we have big reno plans for it, it's already a fabulous gathering space for out family and guests where I can cook or clean and still watch everything and Ben can sit and chat with me while I prep instead of sitting alone around the corner like he used to.

I spy the head of a prince.

In general, more space means people can stop by anytime and I'm not feverishly picking up because we've just gotten home or done a project in the only small space we have. 

I really miss the charm of our old neighborhood and I REALLY miss the curb appeal of our old house.  We have big plans for the Spring, but our new house is very lacking in that department.  I also feel a little bit of missing out or disconnection from the big-city happenings but that's not really rational.  I DO NOT MISS COLORADO BOULEVARD TRAFFIC. 

Day-to-day life, though, of which I spend most at home, is much more relaxed and calm.  There is room to breathe and a big lack of stress about crime and about the constant solicitors and whether they were to be trusted.

We've already had more stop-by guests and I know it will only get more common.  A big motivation for the move for me was the ability to entertain in the non-summer months (or have a place for refuge when mother nature wreaks havoc,) and my heart is happy with that instant ability.


Finally, there's this.........

All the dad's out in the street, chatting and beering (or recovering on this day,) and the kiddos happily riding bikes on the quiet cul-de-sac.   While Ben didn't complain about our previous busy street and we still made bike rides happen, this room to roam without worry is so soothing to my mama soul.  The readily available playmates are already apparent, for the dads and kids alike. ;)