Thinking about it

Can you hear it?

I can hear it.

Shhh..... Listen.

Can you hear it now?

It's Cleveland.

And I think it is calling me home.

I moved to Minnesota in 1998. I didn't know anybody here, but my tribe was here and countless relatives I had never met. It would be the perfect opportunity to raise the kids in the culture my grandmother taught me. Plus, I could finish college and make everyone proud.

Lately, it feels like my stay here in the Too Cold, Minnesota is ending. I miss my family and friends in Ohio. My mom is still holding my beautiful Meeko Da Moo cat hostage there. My best friend, Kelley just bought a house outside Cleveland and is making the area her permanent home. I am almost done with school. I have no where to live as of the end of August and places here are pretty expensive and crappy. My kids want to go back and be near their grandparents and friends. Like I said, all signs point to the Buckeye.

Now, there is the flip side. I have family connections in Minnesota. I enjoy the Native culture here. I"ll have my license to teach soon. I am employed. All of us have friends here. I like my job and the kids I work with. I still can learn much by staying here.

I guess when it comes down to it, Ohio looks more promising. Still, there are two things that need to happen to leave. First, we need a place to live. It needs to be decent, reasonable and near Kel since she is one of my greatest supports. Secondly, I need to find a job that can support my family. I have already started looking, but I have mixed emotions about the jobs available. In general, I am very excited, but very uneasy. It all seems so quick.

Do you know what one of the things I dread the most? Packing and moving all our stuff! Either way I have to move. That means I have to pack. I have 9 years of buildup in my house. It is time to downscale in a major way. The neighbor and I are planning a large sale in July. I'll be on ebay soon to get rid of some of our other items. Hopefully, this process will be successful and leave me feeling relieved and not regretful.

July is the big month here. I need to decide where my path leads. Minnesota or Ohio? I guess we will all see soon. Wish me luck!

Stay sweet 'n smile............................Mz.