OK, so I’ve been in Portland for not quite a week now. I have an apartment (if not a bed or a couch yet), and I’m managing to settle in. Now all I have to do is to get used to the change in climate and a whole new set of allergens (my sinuses seem to have gone on strike). When I left Houston, it was 95 degrees. The high here in Portland yesterday was about 65. I feel as if someone stripped me down to my skivvies and force-marched me into a walk-in cooler. I’ll get used to it, of course- like there’s another option. For now, though, I’ll have to enjoy being the only person in my office with a suntan.
The most annoying thing I’ve noticed about the change in scenery is that my allergies are running at full speed. I’m not sure what’s in the air here, but I’ve been stuffed up, achy, and feverish since I rolled into town. Ah, but change is good, right?? Besides, this gives me the opportunity to get acquainted with my new best friends, Green Tea and Alavert.
After being away for 10 years, it’s difficult to describe just how odd it feels being here again. In a lot of ways, it’s not unlike stepping out of a time capsule. I find it difficult to comprehend how Portland has changed over the time I’ve been away. In may ways, I dont even recognize the place. Oh, I still can find my way around, though I’m admittedly a bit rusty in that regard, but this area looks nothing like what I left behind. I find that tremndously exciting, because it reduces the temptation for me to reminisce. It really is like being in a brand new place, even though I know my way around. Yes, there are a lot of memories for me here, but I find myself not really indulging in much in the way of reminscing. I’m excited about the future and what it holds; I’m not too much concerned with the past.
Today’s my first day in my new position. Same company, but a new office, new people, and a new environment to adapt to. Professionally, I think I’ll be better off here in Portland than I was in Houston. Personally? Well, that’s going to take some work….
