When I came to Vermont it was only to be for one
ski season… that was almost 20 years ago. At first I was in love with Vermont enamored with this
whole state.
Then I married a Vermonter, and quickly realized
it meant we will always live here. The
distance from things – the sheer miles– began to bother me, things like
shopping, jobs, the practical part of daily life. This was very different than my Seattle roots.
Now we have 2 daughters. I worry about all the things that many adults
worry about in VT… But I take great
comfort in my children’s childhood here – they feel safe, they’re in a good
public school, they eagerly learn about the land here through their phenomenal
outdoor experiences.
Life is Seattle has changed by leaps
and bounds, my parents tell me. But not
so, here. It’s nearly the same safe
small growing up experience for my kids as it was for my husband.
Living here, and staying here, is the smartest
thing I’ve ever done. That, and
unplugging the TV. My husband grew up with
one channel, and he turned out pretty good.