A New Islander’s Perspective About Moving to Bainbridge

I thought readers of my blog might appreciate another perspective on island life.  I am lucky enough to have Trish Bittman as a friend and a client.  She is a writer and today, being her one year anniversary on the island, she wrote a piece on just that topic, her and her family’s first year on Bainbridge.  She gave me permission to repost it here.  I thought it was a realistic look at moving, transitioning and adapting to the Northwest.  I also appreciate that she too is a California girl.  Enjoy!

The First Year is the Hardest

by Trish Bittman

Today is one year since Big Daddy and I packed up our home, kids and life and moved to Bainbridge Island. Like most things, I can’t believe it’s been a year and on the other hand it feels like we’ve always been here. I think I’ve said once or twice that I love it here. And I do. This island and this life is pretty much exactly what I was envisioning when I first dreamed of leaving San Diego for something new and different. The first time I saw Bainbridge Island from the ferry I looked at Big Daddy and told him with tears in my eyes that he had made my dream come true. I know that’s completely corny, but it’s true. When I looked across the Sound at Bainbridge, it was exactly what I had wanted.

Of course it has taken some adjusting. To the weather (do you known when it sprinkles in San Diego they call it rain? And in the first hour there are 233 accidents? Also, they don’t let their kids go out to play in the rain), to getting up so early(in the dark) to catch the school bus, and to our new surroundings. But adjusting has been fun. This is exactly the life I wanted when I decided to leave San Diego.

We all love the rain. Such a nice change from what we were used to. The cozy weather inspired me to start cooking more and baking. To learn to sew and knit. Big Daddy told me just today (as I was at my sewing machine) that he knew he’d domesticate me sooner or later. Some of my old friends raise their eyebrows and ask what’s happened to me?! But I’m the same girl who dances on tables and gets outta hand. I just have a few other skills now.

My beautiful girls made friends easily and quickly and their friend’s moms have become my friends. I’m so thankful for those friendships. I have friends to help me navigate island life, to drink with me, commiserate with, and to have fun.

We can’t wait to see what the next year holds. Hopefully a new house!

Thanks Trish – I had never picked up knitting needles either until I moved to Bainbridge.