Honestly, Jordan’s relocation to New York has been a roller coaster for both of us. At first, it was exciting. We got the keys to our Brooklyn apartment and felt like we were starting a whole new life. It was stunning, the kind of brownstone apartment we never thought we would actually get. For the first time in our lives, we were designing a home without worrying about stain resistance or childproofing. We did not have to think about the kids destroying everything. It felt new and freeing and fun.
Then I flew back to Idaho, and reality set in. My life was the same, except now it was without my partner. At first, there was some fun in that. I could make cereal for dinner without judgment, watch Bachelor in Paradise whenever I wanted, and spread out on the bed like a king. Over time, the grass got long, the weeds crept in, and I started to notice how much Jordan had always done. His absence made it clear how much of a team we really were.
After months of trying to keep up, we decided to sell our house. I did not want the responsibility of keeping it up alone while working full-time as a nurse. So I sold it. It felt good. It felt like relief.
Now I am in an apartment with just my daughter since the boys are out of the house. It is simple and beautiful with the right amount of upkeep. Cleaning takes a few hours, and the space feels like mine. It is feminine, calm, and creative. I finally have a home that supports me instead of weighing me down.
Looking back, I did not realize it at the time, but that decision was progress. By letting go of the house, I was making room for something bigger. I cleared my mind and my space so I could start imagining what is possible. It was not only about downsizing. It was about preparing myself for the next step in building the life I dream of.
About the Author
I am Summer, a nurse and mom of three, building the next chapter from Idaho while Jordan grows his film work in New York. I write about real life in the in between and the path that leads toward a future in Portugal.
Next Steps
- Create simple routines that keep our Idaho home calm and easy
- Build online income experiments that feel creative and like I’m working towards the next step
- Research D7 and D8 visa steps and track the needed documents
- Outline a content plan for this blog so I keep showing up
