Uprooting the Tree……Good-bye Northampton

Hi everyone, I’m Back! For those wondering if I’m in Spain yet, the answer is no, not yet. But I am steps closer! The last few weeks have been very busy which is why I’ve been quiet online. The month of January was focused on moving everything out of my condo, selling my condo and my car, trying to get a visa appointment, and moving down to CT until I leave. I’m happy to say it all did happen although I admit that it was quite hectic and, at times, very frustrating. There were times when I really didn’t think it would all come through. But thanks to everyone involved, it did! February 7th was the magic day–the day of my condo closing AND finally, my visa appointment with the Spanish Consulate in Boston. So now I’m in CT waiting to hear back from the Consulate (hopefully by next week) and starting to put final plans in place for departure which I hope is early March. A HUGE thank you to my realtor, my family, friends and others for helping me get to this point. You know who you are- I couldn’t have done it without you all. You provided emotional, logistical and hands-on support, so THANK YOU!

I recently have begun to look at this whole process as uprooting a big tree that has been planted in one place for a long time and then is uprooted to be planted in a brand new location that is a completely different environment form where it was living before. I feel like the last 6 months or so I have been gradually uprooting my roots and now that I am completely uprooted, I am waiting mid-air to be approved to be planted elsewhere. I know it’s not going to be easy and it’s going to take a lot of sun, water and nutrients to flourish in this new environment (luckily I know Valencia has a lot of that! 🙂 , but I know it will happen. So now I’m just waiting to be re-planted! Hopefully then next post will be my announcement of a visa in hand and a date of departure. Fingers crossed it will happen soon!

14 responses to “Uprooting the Tree……Good-bye Northampton”

  1. Love this blog Katie! What a process. “And yet, she persisted.” 🙂 Can’t wait to hear about your arrival and new adventures!

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  2. What a beautiful painting Katie! I love the metaphor. Proud of you🌟

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  3. uprooting a tree is such a great metaphor for the process you’ve been going through — may your roots be surrounded by fertile soil and a cozy layer of mulch again soon!

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  4. Sonja L. Marhefka-Chapman Avatar
    Sonja L. Marhefka-Chapman

    Glad that you are in high spirits while waiting! I’m sure Mom and Dad are enjoying time with you too! See you soon!

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  5. I’m so happy for you, Katie. What an adventure for you! Wishing you all good things in your new chapter. Can’t wait to follow along. Xoxoxo

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  6. Fingers are crossed! 🤞❤😊

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  7. Jacquelyn M Jeffery Avatar
    Jacquelyn M Jeffery

    I look forward to following your journey

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  8. Glad it’s all coming together finally for you, Katie. Best of luck with the next steps!

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  9. Jacqueline Hayden Avatar
    Jacqueline Hayden

    You go girrlllll!!! Fantastic metaphor and congrats on condo, car and visa!! Impressive. Looking forward to your arrival in Valencia!! xoox Jackie

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  10. I am so happy for you!!!!! Absolutely fabulous opportunity,
    My love to you and your family

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  11. Dearest Katherine,
    You are inspiring!
    You are loved!
    You are an adventurer ready for your well-deserved rewards.
    As my sweet, late father told the four of us growing up, “Bloom where you are planted, wherever that may be.”
    Keep on keeping on!
    Xo,
    Erin

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  12. talk about an adventure, katie! how incredible. delighted to follow along!

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  13. Hi, Katie:
    Hope you’re adjusting to life in Spain, and finding your new job fulfilling. I only just found the link to your blog, so haven’t been able to keep up. I’m looking forward to now being subscribed and reading your postings.
    I am planning to come to Valencia mid-Sept and stay til mid-Dec. I will be doing a mix of language study (Taronja Escuela), hanging out, and travel with family and friends who come visit while I’m there. And hopefully seeing you!
    I’d love to talk to you sometime soon.
    Can you give me a call on WhatsApp at 413 244 1292? I have some questions.
    Amy Ben-Ezra, Northampton MA

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  14. Talk to you soon.

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