Moving is not fun, moving with kids is painful and moving to a new state or city no family or friends is downright terrifying. I speak from experience. Two years ago I moved from Northern California to Dallas. I have lived in numerous states and experienced countless cities, however after having kids I was finally feeling happy and secure about settling down near family in California. Just like all things in life, right when you become comfortable, that’s when things change. My husband received a job offer that we knew he could not turn down. So, we packed our bags, I quit my job and moved our expanding family to Texas. The transition was not perfect, but I worked hard to make my new life one that would make me happy and in turn my family’s life. You know what they say “happy wife, happy life”. I know the summer is coming up, which means moving time! I have come up with my transplant survival list that I hope brings everyone transitioning to a new city some solace!
Wait NO Time
Prepare for your move before your move happens. Look for mom groups, study neighborhoods, find Facebook groups. It is amazing what you will find when you really look. I remember sitting at work one day back in California researching moms groups in Dallas and I came across Transplant Parents of Dallas, a Meetup.com group. Are you kidding me? This exists? A Meetup group just for Transplants! I signed up before I even arrived in Dallas, and attended my first Meetup gathering within days of arrival. I had never been one to take chances on meeting anyone online so this was out of my comfort zone—but wow am I glad I did this. I made my closest friends through this group; our kids hav
e grown up together. We became family for each other knowing that none of us had anyone nearby. This is a must for moving to a new city. This group has a blog and Facebook page as extra resources for all of us transplants! Remember, if there is no group similar to this in your new city—start one yourself!
Find a New Passion/Hobby
I knew I would not be working when we arrived in Dallas. I had been working since I was 15, so this would be a huge adjustment. I decided to take this opportunity and think about what would be a fun new hobby. I always enjoyed writing, and trying out new things so I decided to start a personal blog as an outlet for my new life. I never thought I would have time to blog about fun life adventures, but now I did, so I took advantage! This new passion led to fun new opportunity, getting to be a part of Dallas Mom’s Blog, attending blogging conferences and working with brands from numerous markets. I never knew how much fun I could have just by following a passion I never thought to explore! Use this time to take a chance!
Use Your Kids!
It is time they start giving back to you! Having kids is a fantastic way to meet other mom friends. I strongly suggest attending classes such as music, sports, dance etc. It is amazing how many parents you will start to see on a regular basis and begin developing close relationships with. Even better, some classes can be found for free through your library! If you are moving during the school year, I recommend going in to pick up your kid from class (unfortunately, this means avoiding carpool if offered to you) and spend some time after school at the school playground- there will always be other parents doing the same, and eventually you start having unplanned play dates. Bonus points- these families go to the same school! Lastly, if your kids are pre- elementary age check with your neighborhood elementary school, many have Early Childhood PTA groups that start meeting when kids are tiny babies. These babies grow into close friends by the time they start kindergarten. It’s a fantastic way to meet other parents with the same aged kids in the same neighborhood!
Try New Things
When I first arrived in Dallas it was January and FREEZING. I had no idea how to keep my son entertained, so I took him to the aquarium. He was still too young to fully appreciate the place but I still purchased a membership because I felt so desperate to have a place to go and escape the cold. Little did I know, we would never go again and in time I found many other indoor venues he loved so much more. I recommend not committing to any memberships to zoos, aquariums or museums until you have time to fully explore the city. Trust me, your bank account will thank you. While on the topic, if you are allowed the freedom I recommend renting your first apartment or home in your new city. It takes time to learn the ins and outs of neighborhoods, and renting allows flexibility!
The Golden Rule
“If all else fails… go to Nordstrom.” There have never been wiser words spoken. My dear friend told me that whenever I feel homesick, just go to Nordstrom. They all look, smell and feel the same with a way of making you feel right at home. So for all of us Transplants making a life in a new city, remember that it does get easier and you do find your place. However, when you need it the most Nordstrom will always be there waiting for you, with open arms and a cappuccino for you and a balloon for your kid.
