Reviewing 2023 and Goals // SIDE HUSSELEN no.26

[@anitahebert1511]

🎉Mood Fabrics has an affiliate program!! 🎉. Click on thumbs up if you want TCH to join so we can help her achieve her goals for 2024!

[@theverbind]

I would be totally down to support this! I really like mood and trust the Closet Historian

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

I already spend WAAAAAYYYYY too much money at Mood! I'd love to toss a bit of it Bianca's way. ❤

[@marybethpowell4876]

I'm gonna add my voice to those saying 1) don't put off therapy because of a potential move. A good therapist will help you get ready to switch to another one due to relocating; 2) i don't mind sponsorships. I don't know if it would reduce your workload any, but I would watch the design/drafting and sewing as separate videos.

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

Concur. I've kept my same therapist for the last 8 years, through 3 moves. She the only one that I'll Zoom with on the regular. ❤

[@jeanlinder1310]

I absolutely get that "waiting to live" feeling. I'm going to be 40 this year, and I'm still thinking "what do I want to be when I grow up?" I have goals that still haven't been realized yet and I've put a lot on hold (relationships, projects, education) because "WHERE WILL I BE?!"

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

My grandson gets really upset when I say that I don't know what I want to be when I grow up!

[@amber_kitty8782]

Eyy, fellow 84 baby 🎉 And yes, I so don't feel like someone turning 40 in 2 months...

[@Gandellion]

Same here, I’m in a town I just ended up in that’s a total backwater and I’m craving so much that’s not available here, but also I don’t want to invest in a life here because I don’t want to be here, which means I have no life and am pretty flippin depressed

[@cherylmccutchan1282]

I finally figured out what I was going to do when I grow up at about 55 years. I've always been a bit slow.😁

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

@@cherylmccutchan1282 your up on me cause I’m older lol. Congratulations on figuring it out!

[@lindabardes9974]

Years ago when I was self employed (I’m retired) I had a tax person who did my taxes and told me what to do tax wise. The second year I told her what I my expectations were income wise and asked how to handle taxes. She said to continue like I had been doing. Meaning the amount of money put aside. When I saw her the next year I owed an additional $10,000. I asked her why and she said she didn’t believe I could generate the business I said I was going to. That set me back financially as well as emotionally for years. It took a long time to set new expanded goals. I wasn’t as angry at the tax expert as myself reasoning that I should have figured out for myself that I needed more savings. But a few years later I was astonished that I still went back to her the next year! It took me a while to realize that the tax preparer was at more fault than I was. So I hope for you that you are looking for a new preparer. If you need to pay more it will be worth it in the end. This is your year. I look forward to seeing what you have for us this year, and for yourself. You inspire me.

[@michellecornum5856]

Yes! Very much so. If your tax expert is causing you back taxes to 2022!!!🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩Get a new person!!!! Or do it yourself. You're getting screwed and this should not be happening. This is a tax EXPERT, why are you paying back taxes for 22?!?🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩 Do something different, you are headed for an Audit 🚩🚩🚩🚩

[@Kera.S.]

Taxes are a slippery slop. My good friend is a tax accountant and he does my husband's self employed business stuff. If your taxes are done by an expert and anything is wrong with them at an audit, the expert is at fault not you, that's why you pay so much to have them done. It's a sort of like plausible deniability. Lol

[@oldkittykiyru]

And make sure to get a tax person who is familiar with your job. My husband works in the film industry and one year I just went to HnR block last minute. Big mistake they had no knowledge of certain write offs that could be done as a self employed person in the entertainment field. Told me we owed a ton when we didn't.

[@bourgeoisbarbie7734]

Taxation makes us poor. It does not help "poor people." It does enrich politicians friends. I know things.

[@jaybee4118]

@@bourgeoisbarbie7734I’m not sure you do know things. Taxation can be mismanaged, but managed well it can, and does, help the poor.

[@Arlene-1313]

I can relate so much to this. I'm 47 and currently sitting in my childhood bedroom. I moved back home to help my Mum care for my Dad who suffers from brain tumors and severe brain damage. My Mum passed away quite suddenly last year followed by me being made redundant from my job after 18 years. Doesn't help that I am living like there is still a pandemic as I can't seem to break free of my self imposed isolation and can barely step outside the front door. Its very hard not to see the future as bleak. My time is running out and I'm still waiting to live too. A friend who has not yet given up on me sent me a New Year card recently with the CS Lewis quote "You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream" I am going to try to live by that. 2024 will be my year.

[@emmadavey3892]

You can do it! Wishing you all the best.

[@blackhellebore89]

I shot archery competitively with a woman who started when she was circa 82 (she was 85yo for a couple of years lol). And my violin teacher had a woman that started playing when she was 63. She enjoyed playing in the local orchestra. You are not too old to do what you want.

[@anandamontoly5705]

I'm rooting for you - you've already made it through incredible adversity

[@bunhelsingslegacy3549]

For what it's worth from a rando on the internet, I'm sorry for your loss, that's got to have been really rough, on top of whatever dents the pandemic and lockdowns put in your mental health, I'm only just now finding some of the holes chewed in mine...

[@dawsie]

You can do it, it’s hard but it can be fun as well. As Dad told me the other day, make a new dream so that’s what we both have done, it’s been slow but we have started on it this year. 🤗🤗🤗he’s 79 and I’m 60, but I started sewing again and designing

[@charlenasutherland]

John Lennon once said, Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans. I’m glad you had the money in savings to pay the taxes and not go into debt or incur penalties. I’m glad you have the opportunity to spend quality time with your folks. I’m glad you didn’t let the circumstances throw you for a loop. All we ever have is today. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow hasn’t come. Take care. I enjoy your channel, you brighten my day and open my mind

[@dawsie]

So very true, as me Mom once said to me years ago, “forget yesterday, it’s done and dusted, tomorrow is always there but today is for ever changing.”Took me years to figure it out😹😹

[@elizabethross6895]

I don't know how you feel about taking sponsorships, but I will say that as viewer, I never mind when my favorite content creators do sponsorships. I'm always happy for them that they're able to make some more money with their content.

[@michellecornum5856]

YES! By all means! Take a sponsor. You are not selling out. You're just hurting yourself. Bernadette, Nicole, etc. have one. No shame, no harm.

[@megmagruder7124]

Yes, I do not mind sponsors. Several have been products I’ve bought and love. 😊

[@lynneozzyblackbeard]

I agree! And I'm also a yes to ads in the videos. If it helps you out, then it helps you out. 🤩😍🤗

[@annlidslot8212]

Hi, I've been on this channel for a very long time, and one thing she has always been very adamant about is that she'll never do sponsored content or even sponsor placement. She has also been very clear and vocal about not having more ads. She might change her mind in the future, and I wouldn't mind, but from what she's always said those are out of the question. I think she takes great pride in being a, payed by people like us, channel. Yours, Ann

[@rd6203]

I vote no ads. It's a big part of why this channel is better than all of the ones mentioned in the above comment. There is nothing worse than being mid-tutorial and having some awful computer voice come on and tell you "this one trick" Also, I loathe sponsorec content that is not directly related to the actual vibe and content of the channel.

[@StephanieCanada]

Oh my goodness! “Waiting to live” resonates SO HARD with me. Thank you for articulating it. Also, heads up for Massachusetts the taxes are HIGH. Check out some in New Hampshire instead.

[@valtarrant6527]

I really enjoy your side husselen videos. I am happy to use them as a podcast when I have some crafting to do. I have been plying some handspun wool while listening tonight. It would love for you to have a side husselen video each month to hear about your town and house hunting and other stuff that you don't mind sharing with us.

[@megmagruder7124]

I too would love this. 😊

[@Eliza-br2so]

Out of those towns, I vote new london. Small town vibes, but it’s right on the northeast regional amtrak line, so you can easily dash over to New York, boston, or DC whenever you want. And the Amtrak station in nyc is literally only a few blocks from the garment district, so that’s a bonus, too. Plus you could come visit providence (that’s where I am!), and we could be busy creative WFH buddies!! There’s actually a bunch of New England social media sewists, and it’s a lovely community that’s kind of ready-made for ya. Wishing you luck in the new year 🎉

[@fayewhite-willinger8068]

I agree with @Eliza-br2so. New London. Maybe look at North Hampton MA. College town, so lots of activity, openness etc. close to transportation to Boston and NYC. Springfield MA is mostly casino

[@sewknitmake4796]

I’m in Providence too (though planning to move this summer)! Any recommendations for events to meet other sewists? I’ve mostly done these in my own little cave but would love to meet people!

[@m.mccolgan2250]

So, I TOTES encourage you to look at WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS! I’ve live 40 of my 55 years in Northampton MA (6 yrs Boston/9 yrs San Fran), and I’m gonna make some suggestions as a native: Although I am Wicked Pro-Massachusetts, I’d still say I’d move to Boston before New London. Boston is an International Small Town. Lots of art-type, academic-type, historic (both touristy & local) stuff going on! Although billed as a city, it feels like a small town after about a year or two. Springfield: has the highest murder rate in the state. Some neighborhoods are totally fine, others are on the local news for shootings weekly. If you don’t know someone familiar with the city’s neighborhood set-up, I wouldn’t move there. The MGM casino is in the city center, near the opera house and civic center ( GO THUNDERBIRDS!) There IS some amazing food/restaurants and the Dr Seuss museum (Theodore Geisel was a Springfield native. Unfortunately they tore his family home down in the 90’s), but you can easily get there from Amherst, Easthampton or Northampton. Northampton: We had WAY too many New Yorkers move here during the plague, and housing costs have skyrocketed🚀 I wouldn’t be able to live here myself (dog walker) if I didn’t live in the Apt above my parents’ garage. Give it a few years to calm down before thinking of purchasing here. Amherst: Home to three of the Five Colleges (UMass, Amherst, Hampshire). Thriving with an extra 30,000 students 2/3 of the year, kinda dead in the summer. 20 min drive to Northampton. Plenty of music, art, academia and politics to be had here. Expensive, but not as expensive as Hamp. I’m thinking about moving there myself… or to… Easthampton: although the school in this town is for Middle & High school (Williston), Easthampton is VERY similar to what I remember Northampton being like in the 70’s, before our downtown got wicked developed. You should be able to get a small home with a decent yard for a fair amount of money. They have good restaurants, a smaller but decent art scene, & it’s the next town over from Hamp! Amherst, Easthampton & Northampton are all 1 1/2 hours from Boston and 3 hours from NYC by car. Both are available by bus & train from Northampton (and I think by bus from Amherst). I moved back from San Francisco 17 years ago & I still L💖VE living in Western Mass!!! I know you’d at least love to visit, which I would do in October, so you could double dip by visiting Salem during the season! Good Luck with your adventure!

[@inasKnit]

@@fayewhite-willinger8068 the problem with North Hampton is it's expeeeeeeeensive. But western Mass is the best in the world.

[@Rosiebud82]

I have live in New London, I would suggest not moving there. It's a small town but it's also a college town and really run down. Unless it's changed in the last few years since I've lived there. Most people who I knew there lived in Providence, Mystic, or Stonington

[@beckymiller6703]

Give yourself grace, what you have done is really remarkable! It's so easy for us to be hard on ourselves (our own worse critic) My daughter still lives with me, I consider it a gift she's still here. - she's saving to go back to school for her MS. I Still think you would like VT. It's always been LGBTQ friendly and the houses are really beautiful - Victorian.

[@knittingghost]

As a fellow pmdd sufferer, I truly feel for you. It's a horrible cycle. It's basically emotional whiplash every two weeks. I hope this next year is better for you. Also, my husband and I moved via driving from Denver to Washington state almost two years ago with our cat. We watched a bunch of Jackson Galaxy videos on KZbin about moving/traveling with cats. We got a kennel that would go in the back of our car and started getting her used to it weeks before we moved by putting her favorite bed in it and giving her treats when she went in. She still didn't like it when it came time to be in the car, but at least she knew the kennel was for her. The kennel fit her bed and travel litterbox and had a little attachable water bottle. And she got here safe and sound (she's head butting me right now, perhaps to pass along kitty support). It's not going to be fun to move them, but it definitely can be done. I also recommend going straight to your destination rather than taking the long way and sight seeing to help reduce stress. I hope this helps!

[@angelaobernesser9167]

AHH Syracuse is my home city!! It's such a wonderful city and I love it there so much. Don't move there if you're not okay with snow though.... but the nice thing about the winter is that everyone is so used to it that they don't really let it slow them down. If you're looking for a place with lots of art and culture, Cuse is a great place for that. The old architecture that exists is incredible. Definitely check out the Westcott neighborhood (Recess Coffee has my heart forever despite having moved away years ago).

[@susandickerson2663]

Suggestion - bring us along on your travels in house hunting. Dont show the houses, but explain what you like/dont like, concerns.... about what you saw that day. You also might get valuable feedback from those of us who have bought houses before. Curious if anyone else would like this content.

[@CandiceLemonSharks]

Watching as a podcast: “I finished my sleeve!” Me: wait what, she’s finished so many sleeves though Me, looking up: OOOOOH.

[@CandiceLemonSharks]

Ok, also, parasocially speaking you seem super neat and my best guess your is off camera real-person persona is *also* neat. That said, I gotta advocate for the midwest: check out chicago for affordable housing that meets your specs on the south, west, and western northside. (I’ve been looking not at listed but at sold properties for market vibes.) The outer neighborhoods *are* basically small towns as well. Western and southern Chicagoland/illinois more generally is great for state level safety and queer support, though you’ll want stick either *to* chicago/land or to a city with a large university of good reputation. For taxes, surprisingly ohio, could be good? They just legalized ~recreational hemp~ and amended “right to abortion” into their state constitution. Though the columbus area, which is the best part of the state, has a crap housing market for buyers right now. Great goth scene and nerd scene, though. Best bet for moving cats is box them up in the car and drive them yourself, either in their carriers or strapped into to a seatbelt harness.

[@lindak8664]

Hahahaha! Only that my daughter loves getting tattoos is the reason i knew what she was talking about without having to look 😂

[@kathleennewton9854]

When I tell you I have never rooted so hard for someone to be able to buy a house ... I've started to put money into savings for a deposit but it's gonna be years before I get to the point where I can even start looking. You're so close and I'm rooting for you!

[@IAmCraftingAgain]

Oh Biana! 😢 get the counselling now! Or get one online? Don't wait, won't it be a relief to finally get some? It helps me so much. Sounds like you've got a lot of feelings right now and need ways to let them out and learn how to process them. Lots of love

[@kah597]

Well said! I second this.

[@pmclaughlin4111]

Upside to the house purchase saga: Mortgage rates are predicted to float down over the next 12 months (several large organizations are predicting up to 1.5 points by year end-watching for the spring meeting of the Fed) (Try north of Springfield in the Bershires more toward the Amherst, location of University of Massachusetts, everyone I have interacted with from the area would love you)

[@maggierobertson2962]

I felt like 2023 was my year of "patterning refinement" (largely thanks to your pattern block guidance). I'm planning on making 2024 my year of volume. I'd like fill out an entirely self-made wardrobe and now with patterns that fit me, I'm ready to chip away at that.

[@katynosework]

Very Cool!

[@laurenloo]

as a fellow 32 year old living with her parent waiting for their life to start, i feel ya! wishing you all the best in the new year

[@ThatisSewSilvia]

I am an accountant (not in the USA) and in the name of all accountants I am sorry. It could have been worse, no money at all to pay the taxes. It sucks! I hope 2024 will be better! Please don’t try to downplay your dissatisfaction because you are the most important person in your life. Even though worse happens in this world you see the good in your life. How about Europe? Our healthcare system is good and, if you come to Germany you’ll have better accountants 😂 like me 😂😂😂 P.s. love you make up!

[@pmclaughlin4111]

Quarterly estimated taxes are based on estimated income. The idea is to not owe and not get a large refund at year end. However, if you are more successful, you can end up owing-

[@ThatisSewSilvia]

@@pmclaughlin4111same here. 😊

[@raraavis7782]

Our housing market kinda sucks, though 😆 Can you even imagine finding something like what she's looking for (an old and interesting looking house, that's also in reasonably good shape) for under 500.000€? Especially somewhere near an interesting city? I wish... 🙋🏻‍♀️ from Cologne

[@katynosework]

Europe would be perfect for her. I hope she doesn’t get tied down to a new house then realize she could have moved overseas.

[@ThatisSewSilvia]

@@raraavis7782greetings from near cologne She could find something in the Eifel 😊

[@geri-annquinlivan8620]

If you're thinking of Springfield, MA I would recommend looking slightly North in the Amherst or Northampton areas. Very artsy and creative communities. Springfield does have some nice historic neighborhoods, and it's actively working to revitalize its downtown area. I grew up there and my mom still lives in the area. A major pro is that you can day trip to either Boston or New York City from there either via bus or Amtrak, and you are no more that 3 hours from anything of note in New England really. If you do visit, I recommend stopping at Osgood Textile in West Springfield. It's a dead stock fabric store with a fantastic wool section. I always bring a larger suitcase with me when I go visit family just to bring back a few yards.

[@elizabethross6895]

Northampton would be perfect for you!

[@reeseoroni]

I thought Osgoods Textile was mostly upholstery fabric, no? (I haven't been there in many years.)

[@rlavelleSLP]

Haha, came here to comment about Springfield MA 😂 Honestly, Springfield isn’t the best. It’s the third largest city in Mass and has some great history and culture, including the Basketball Hall of Fame, but it’s a higher crime area, like most big cities. Think like Detroit. There are some decent neighborhoods, but I agree with others that you would love Northampton or Easthampton because of the arts scene. The home prices are much higher there, of course. Springfield is your “more reasonable house prices” area, but the house won’t be nice and Mass is expensive to live in overall. I also second Osgoods in West Springfield if you visit! This area is the “crossroads of New England” and has the intersection of two major highways north/south and east/west, so it’s a great location. Easy access to all of the best New England places. Come be my neighbor! Mass is very heavy in higher education and all of the thinking that aligns with educated individuals, if you know what I mean ❤💫

[@margot2239]

I go to college in the Pioneer Valley! (Amherst/NoHo/etc.) Lots of cute small New England-y towns strung together, with lots of queer, intellectual, artsy folk :)

[@andread.7245]

These comments are spot on re: Springfield. Northampton, MA or Putnam, CT may have a better artsy feel. And you can get nearly anywhere in New England from Springfield and Worcester in 1-2 hours.

[@mohmeegaik6686]

Well done Bianca. Happy New Year.

[@sandrameza1644]

Three cheers for people living in basements! Like you, I feel stuck living in my sister's basement with no friends or therapists. And yes, I too feel lucky, that I can sew (not nearly as well as you) and I write, and it's therapeutic for me. I write to my Guardian Angel, for One, and they respond with love and light.

[@annadrake5203]

Best quote ever “I’m only pretending to know how to adult.” I can absolutely relate to that!

[@MorganDonner]

Vermont has (most) of the things you want! 😏 Plus me! (Only one Target though)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

One Target!! That is indeed wild to me, I have three just near me here 😂

[@Kats163]

My spouse and I have been looking for a house in our budget for four years. Please do not get discouraged, the market is so difficult. You will be able to achieve it when the time is right. Take time for your feelings, it is important to take care of you. I love your content and appreciate how real you are with your audience.

[@adanice49]

I totally understand feeling like your life hasn’t started yet. During the pandemic, when having online friends was the only option, I finally felt like someone. I hope you get a chance to meet more creatives in your area or finally get into a new environment this year. For what’s it’s worth, over here in Canada, the housing market is incredibly expensive and inaccessible for under 35-40 year olds. So it’s very normal for folks our age to want to stay with parents until they can afford to move out. If it weren’t for this pricing issue, I’d highly recommend you try a spot in southern Ontario hahah. Cities like Hamilton have older homes but are also full of creatives and is quite liberal in terms of women’s and LGBTQ+ rights

[@raraavis7782]

Yeah, when she talked about 5000$ being a sizable chunk of a down payment, I kinda cried a little. I'm mid 40s and have completely given up hope of owning a house. With one income, it's just not doable, these days.

[@annekelly8168]

Thinking of sequins would be a great title for your PBS show! Here are some recommendations for New York. I’m the mother of a trans 30 year old so I hear your trepidation about where to live safely. I’m right outside Geneva which is quite blue in a rural area. Ithaca, Seneca Falls, Trumansburg are also small but lively. Buffalo has some great history and has reinvented itself a bit. I think Albany is a little more conservative than Syracuse. Syracuse does have a lot to offer. Rochester (where I’m from originally) has some great houses; my last one was a 1910 house on a street Olmsted designed and because it was in the city was quite affordable. Rochester, though, is a bit more expensive than Syracuse housing wise. Good luck and I’ve been there with IRS and yeah it will suck the joy out of a year.

[@ciaratalley9206]

My husband and I drove from Oregon to Alaska with our cat when we moved. We got her a large dog crate, put her litter box and some water in it, and covered it with a blanket. We also got some kitty calming pills at the vet and just put them in a little wet food in the morning. It wasn't a perfect solution, but so much better than the incessant meowing every other time I've had to take her on a car ride.

[@emmadavey3892]

Dear Bianca, wishing you and all the lovely people leaving such kind, wonderful and helpful comments a most marvellous 2024. ❤🎉 we’ve got this! 😊

[@maggierobertson2962]

I'm from Syracuse and I love it desperately. But those winters are long and hard and the winter daylight hours are VERY short. I don't live there anymore and the idea of going back is hard to think about. BUT, it is a beautiful place with lots of personality and history. Also, I HIGHLY recommend college towns in general. The activity and cultural enrichment is so lovely. I've lived in 7 cities total, the top three are college towns. I have decided that I will always live in a college town. (and not all towns with college are "college towns" if that makes sense.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Alas anywhere I can afford seems to come with serious winters I'm afraid 😂 Stocking up on groceries and heated blankets for me and the cats ✨

[@maggierobertson2962]

@@TheClosetHistorian I get that. If you are going to live somewhere with winters that hard, Syracuse is lovely. If you are okay with living in the middle of nowhere, look at the Finger Lakes.

[@leciamay7584]

I live in Spokane WA.and would be proud to be your friend. Your personality alone has probably inspired seamstresses. You dodged a bullet. Wait till interest rates lower. Fire your accountant and have a great year.

[@TL_oS]

Your painting is so beautiful. Please share more with us.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@amytuite7449]

Just wanted to pop in and say that I'm so proud of all you have achieved. We love you!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amy!

[@Kera.S.]

I'm 53 and my favorite cozzy tee says "So when's this growing up thing supposed to kick in". I don't think we ever Get Where we think we could right now. I'm finally okay with that! Decided where I am is where my living is and I can carry it with me anywhere anytime. But I totally understand your situation and feeling like you're on pause, which isn't a bad place to be sometimes either. It quiets the noise so we can think, make decisions, and when we're ready, go for it! 💙 GOOD LUCK with the town and home search! TN isn't the best place to live but my daughter has found a fantastic LGBTQ+ community in Memphis. I love that town too, it's got it's rough spots for sure but also Such a Fantastic Vibe and the food! Wow! Proud to support you and your channel and more than anything, I'm so Proud of You ❣️ 🤗 Big Hugs, 💙 PS... My vote is to show whatever older Patreon videos necessary to help you do what needs doing. I'm sure there's plenty I've missed even though I spend time going back thru them lol

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@chelseamortensen6573]

On the upcoming content front, something I'd be happy to see on a busy week would be a pattern draft only-maybe showing how to do a vintage design that you wouldn't find flattering on yourself or that is a little outside of your norm. I don't know how much time the drafting/filming/editing takes compared to the sewing or how that would work with your creative processes but if it's something you could pull off on a busy house hunting week I'd love to see it!

[@lynn858]

It makes my heart happy to know that an older house will be bought to be lived in and loved long term by the owner, and not for the purpose of speculation and profit, based on the imagination of what someone else might be willing to pay the most for.

[@beckycollier-burgess1568]

Please don’t underestimate how much people love to watch the occasional house hunting vlog….

[@wendyhale2189]

Have you considered learning to dance? It might be a good complement to your interest in retro fashion, especially swing, blues and tango. You’ll encounter a lot of people around your age and the activity gives everyone a low-pressure reason to socialize. Dance groups also tend to be safe places for all types of people. Not serial killers though.

[@blackhannahofficial]

Happy New Year 🎉 New 2023 subscriber. You could a fooled me that you weren't 'reaching your goals'. BE GRACIOUS to yourself. We're ALL just doing the best we can

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@maryartberry]

I relate to the house hunting debacle so much. I had a plan; it had been going for years. But the final part of the plan was to do my taxes in Feb 2020 and start looking, and well we all know what happened in 2020 instead.

[@janeprufrock]

I’d definitely echo what others are saying here: of your list of to-dos that you’re considering putting off until after your move, finding a therapist could definitely help you now. If you can find someone you get along with who is in your budget, they may be able to help you unlock some of these other things like where to move and how to find your community. Therapy is also a great place to complain without guilt, to put it brashly. I used to begin every therapy session with, “I know other people have it worse BUT this has been bothering me this week.” And finally my therapist said, “things that are problems for you are still valid problems, even if they seem small compared to other troubles.” You also realize how quickly an hour goes by, so it’s best to get to the point of what you’d like to discuss each week, ha! In short, a great therapist can help you organize your thoughts on some of these big life questions, and they may have a network of colleagues who will also be able to help you once you do move. Wish I could give you a suggestion on east coast towns! I live in Kansas City and also hope to move east in the coming few years. Good luck!

[@lizzystrande4203]

Also I moved my cats halfway across the country and I road tripped. I got an XL dog crate for two cats, they are a bonded pair and get along very well, set that out about a month before moving and put their fave blankets and toys in it to get them used to being in the crate. Then I started locking them in it for only minutes at a time, then 30 min, then an hour. Once we got to the hour mark I felt comfortable they would be good in the car. I did some test drives with them in the car. And once the trip came round I sprayed a little bit of a cat calming spray in the kennel and got them inside and in the car. At hotels I only let them out in the bathroom to not overwhelm them with too much. I had offered a makeshift litterbox in the car but they were too stressed out to use it on the road, but once in the hotel they used it just fine. Then once finnally in the house I moved into I limited them to one room, then opened it to one floor, then both floors, and now a couple months in they are the king and queen of the house. 😊 hope I could help a bit

[@annasobkowiak3885]

You are a beautiful creature ❤ May 2024 (and next years) be wonderful for you ❤

[@valeriea.gladstone6440]

It is just a dream deferred! You are really good at this. Be proud! Sew forth!

[@victoriawu6551]

I understand too well the feeling of not accomplishing as much as you'd planned, but as strange as it may seem, you've changed my life and the lives of many others. I never could've dreamed of making my own clothes if it weren't for people like you. So thank you! You've accomplished a great deal.

[@stitchywitchybee]

It can be surprisingly difficult but very rewarding to start being more intuitive about your overall workflow, instead of scheduling it out and trying to be orderly and organized. It just feels so chaotic and makes it seem like nothing's actually going to get done. I've been on that path this last year or so, just trying to listen to what my motivation/energy levels/capabilities tell me I can get done at a certain time instead of trying to force myself to do something I just don't feel up to in that moment, purely because it's scheduled or I "should". It's been a real game changer for me because I'd end up getting locked in, telling myself I should be doing project A, so I couldn't work on project B even though it was what I felt more interested in at that moment, only to ultimately not do either out of guilt and frustration. Now I'm giving myself more grace and it's really, *really* helped a lot with actually finishing projects, making progress on things, and overall making me feel better about enjoying the things I love instead of attaching unnecessary guilt or stress to them. This is a very rambling comment when ultimately the point is, I fully understand that struggle and that difficulty, but I also really encourage you to at least give that more intuitive, follow-your-inspiration/motivation path when it comes to your hobbies and extras, it might feel chaotic in the moment but it can be very rewarding and good once you let go of some of those ideas of should and shouldn't.

[@kirabrzeczyszczykiewicz2456]

I'm about your age and in a similar spot -- waiting for specific things to happen so that I can start a life outside of living with family! But between the pandemic, health stuff draining my savings, logistics.... It's HARD. The life I imagined I would have as a teenager and then in my early 20s hasn't happened yet, and it may never happen exactly as I imagined it. But I'm trying to make my current space as nice as possible -- more along the lines of plants, colors, little things that will be easy enough to pack up. But you're absolutely not alone in living in this weird liminal space.

[@carriesunshine5742]

As far as moving a cat. I got my cat use to the car first. Then when it was time i put a mid size dog cage in the back set for her litter box and let him walk around the car. He did amazing on the 2 state drive. Now my older cat she when we moved later had to be in a cage with a blanket over it to help

[@corallumbley7722]

2023 was also my year of house-hunting despair. The system is so terrible-hang in there! Also, I have moved 3 cats across the country multiple times, and road-tripped with them many times. It’s totally possible and you can do it! I put them in 2 carriers with comfy padding and always a T-shirt or piece of clothing that smells familiar. I often add a handful of their favorite snacks and a sprinkling of catnip. I keep paper towels and cleaner in the car, for any accidents. My cats have always been good about “holding it” while in the car, so no box necessary. In hotel rooms, I set up a litter box and food station. I’ve never bothered with pet sedatives, as I hear some animals just get upset and nauseous. My cats got really used to road tripping and even enjoyed exploring hotel rooms and new places.

[@radioactiveivy]

I absolutely feel the same way with the whole "waiting to start my life," and finding a house with the market right now

[@TheZeyre]

Hi Bianca, I think alot of people understand 2023 was a heaping bowl of disappointment for alot of the world. Glad you got to London. Like Paris, London is always a good idea! 🎉❤to a better Year of the Dragon, Feb 2023.

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

I was just thinking last week that you hadn't done a side husslein video for a while and i log in and its here. I know it feels like a huge setback but you had the money to pay for the tax bill. Yes it sucks and puts you back in buying the house, but at least it didn't put you back with having to look at getting a part time job or something to have to pay the tax bill. I am hoping that you find what you are looking for soon and that you can move and we can start seeing you doing diy and decor!

[@thissettlefashion]

I love the texture and retro style of your painting. Very beautiful!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@yvettet9855]

I’m sure you know this but talk to a lender - an fha loan only requires 3-5% down - which could sound scary if you’re worried about a large mortgage. But there’s a bunch of first time home buyer programs and grants. I bought a very cheap house, put 3% down, got an extra $5000 from a home buying grant and another $3000 from a grant - so an extra $8k for a downpayment. Just bc I was a first time buyer; my lender found both grants for me. A lot of small towns and rural areas have soft second mortgage programs and rural land grants. It’s very very doable and my mortgage (in a large urban area) is half what rent would be. Buying a house is daunting but it’s actually achievable.

[@k1tkat-kate]

I turned 30 last year and I also have that lingering 'waiting for my life to start' feeling - still living with my parents, changed career paths, went back to school, don't go out much. Feel very much like I did when I was 23 :/ It's a thing that's happening to a lot of us, you're not alone! Your sleeve does look lovely, though!!!

[@theverbind]

One thing I would recommend is going to wherever you want to move when the weather is at its suckiest. Especially if you're buying a cheaper house, it might be harder to sell it if it doesn't work out, and Seasonal Affectation Disorder is a real thing that doesn't impact Colorado as much due to all the sun. I'm really excited for your adventures

[@vivianagutierrez1966]

And while life give us ups and downs, goals unfulfilled, and curves we did not intended to take, just know that at least from this one follower if your goal was ever to have a beloved channel, to be admired and respected for your knowledge and craft , to make a positive difference you got my vote. Keep those dreams strong

[@thayet]

Wishing you all the luck for 2024, you deserve it

[@marytwiggs7473]

If you're ever finding that a DIY house project you want to do is taking too much free time, I know I for one would love to see vlogs or videos of that process! I don't know if that's something you'd ever want to do, but it could make really fun alternate content to your sewing vids, and help pay for the time spent doing it :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Oh there will be so many decorating videos I promise, I have been dreaming of decorating all my dang life 😂❤️

[@wendydana8642]

I moved from California to Bangor Maine and I am soooo glad I did. I moved here as a single woman introvert so I knew I didn't need to know anyone lol. I bought a house built in the 1880s in a very pretty and safe neighborhood for $180k. I enjoy working on the house myself and am pretty self sufficient but yes there are times when it's necessary to call someone in. I know you will find an amazing place. Just always be searching and it's good that you're leaving it open as to where you will land. Good luck to you!

[@nicolewiles927]

I’d definitely recommend western New York. I think it can check a lot of boxes on the government, small old town near a bigger city, Victorian houses, small town price point etc. I and my IRL sewing friends would love to have you out here!

[@aliciafarnham5616]

Advice on moving cats: move them last! When things are moving out of your old space, keep them shut into a smaller space so they don’t get too stressed and freaked by all the changes. Then get all the stuff moved into the new place before you bring the cats in. I’ve either left mine with my parents or in a pet friendly hotel room or a cat hotel if it’s a long move, or in the bathroom of the new space if I absolutely have to. They don’t like being enclosed when they really want to know what’s going on but they also settle so much faster. For my last move, I kept my cat in the bathroom while everything got packed up, then let her out to sniff all the empty space while I brought everything to the new space and set up her food and litter box, then I made a special trip to bring her to the new place. since she hates being in the car, it’s much better to have all the clutter and chaos taken care of before she has to endure the drive. Just me, my cat, a purse, and the car. Another time, we moved far enough to have to fly there. I booked a hotel room, spent the weekend moving into the new place but sleeping in the hotel with my cat, and then only moved her when I checked out of the hotel. I found a discreet, soft shelled travel carrier was ideal in that instance because any time I was at the airport no one even knew I had a cat with me until she meowed. They couldn’t see her through the black mesh unless she wanted them to see her. Plus a soft shelled carrier can be taken on board the plane and tucked under the seat, so I was always with my cat. As a bonus, if there are flight delays you can pretty much depend on finding a fellow cat lover working at the airport who will go the extra mile to make you and your pet more comfortable. I’ve had that happen more than once! To sum up, the key to moving with cats is to plan ahead, shield them from as much chaos as possible, and schedule lots of time for the actual cat moving part so you’re not rushing or feeling panicked because kitty will NOT believe you when you say they’re going to be okay if you are not actively okay yourself. :)

[@ruthlynnsavoy6680]

We moved from Texas to the Missouri Ozarks with one rabbit three cats in carriers and one dog. We drove in two vehicles on this trip. Left at midnight and arrived in Missouri vet for pet boarding the animals at noon. Worked out great with stops for dog pee breaks.

[@MarianneTownsend-t7q]

You are so awesome. Please be kinder to yourself 🙏. You have made such a difference in my life. I find you so inspiring and enjoy everything you post. Try to enjoy every moment 😎. If you could handle a hotter climate I’d say move to Australia. Melbourne might work for you. Lots of culture and couture and valuing of diversity

[@gavannapatterns353]

Good luck with everything, and of course it would be great to see some old patreon videos when you're busy travelling and looking at houses. Its important that you take the time that you need for this 😊

[@sinndymorr6358]

Blessings and I am wishing you reach your goals!!

[@aksez2u]

Well, that IS probably the most beautiful tattoo I've ever seen, so there's that. I hope 2024 turns out to be a great, positive year for you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@AidensEmpire]

lol I live in Syracuse NY and I think depending on where you move, you would LOVE it here! It’s a smaller city, but not too small & there’s just so many small town things to do and also bigger attractions that come here too like the state fair ect. I think you would enjoy your life here if you don’t mind cold winters and perfect summers lol.

[@craftingwithcasca]

Nice one finishing the sleeve! Also I'm 40 now and still don't feel like I'm a proper adult and like my life has begun. I'm also going to be house hunting soon too so I totally feel you there. You're doing great and have achieved so much, wishing you all the best for the year.

[@amandawright2388]

It is a beautiful sleeve though! I do wish you the best of luck in finding home, it is rarely easy, but totally worth it.

[@janeunion8748]

You might consider Port Jervis, NY. I don’t know it well, but in the 2010s it was getting a bit of press as an up and coming place for aspiring artists who were priced out of NYC. It’s possible to make day or weekend trips to NYC pretty conveniently. It does have some old housing stock that could be promising. I do hope you find a house and community you like. You give us so much joy (and useful information) you deserve it!

[@paintingwithnicole]

wishing you all the best in your house hunting dreams this year!!!! i'd love to hear some about your writing sometime if you would be interested in talking about that more publicly, im always in awe about all of your various talents(/skills bc talent isn't really but you know what i mean lol) it seems we're into all the same things haha

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nicole!! ❤️

[@marcco44]

thanx for your hard work on this great channel Ms.B!!🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@NadoCrowFriend]

I know this may not be of comfort at this moment t in time ~ I do think you will see the value in it later: Not buying the house in 2023 may actually have been a “blessing in “disguise” … Sometimes we don’t recognize that a disappointment may have spared us from something worse… Hopefully this new year will fuel you again, & push you towards your goal.

[@anahitadjanatsarai63]

Yes maybe you did not do all that you set for yourself at the beginning of the year, but you have accomplished so much that was not planned, that deserves recognition and acknowledgement! i.e your channel grew, you collaborated, you experimented new techniques you influenced me in starting to sew and try out pattern drafting (I am so proud of my all in one sleeve blouse). you are doing great, be kind with yourself❤

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!! ❤️

[@cherylmccutchan1282]

Sometimes life just gets in the way of goals. It's not your fault that someone else calculated your taxes incorrectly. I tend to keep kind of a loose hold on my goals and just keep trying to steer the ship in the right direction. It's interesting that you mention a need for community. I work from home and the pandemic definitely constricted community involvement. Being an introvert, I like being alone for most of the day but am also feeling the desire for community. (And I am just up the road from you. 👋)

[@katynosework]

I will miss her, in a way, because I also live close. I will miss her talking about the weather and such. It makes me feel like her neighbor.

[@cherylmccutchan1282]

@@katynosework I know! The ice dying tutorials often mentioned going outside and getting snow. And I'm like, yep, snow here too.

[@blackmirrorprisoners]

thanks for the update! your videos and general presence are so wonderful that i’d watch whatever you put out, because i know it’s going to be quality. if you need to take a break at any point, we would completely understand. you’ve been doing youtube for years now and you deserve to take some time to yourself while you secure a house.

[@amandakestenbaum9720]

As a rule, I’m not keen on tattoos but yours is absolutely beautiful.

[@MariaFrancesca]

Congratulations on the sleeve, it's one nice thing to have done, and it looks amazing! 🙂 I am very jealous 😀 I'm sitting here with two half done sleeves because I suddenly developed Psoriasis during 2023 and was forced to take a break from tattooing, which is not easy, taking a break from getting tattoos, as I'm sure you know 🙂 Well, here's for 2024 being a better year, and I hope this time the house will happen for you. I'm really looking forward to see what you would do with it. With a canvas a big as a whole house, I am sure you would create something really fun and special.

[@lydiasims6412]

im so proud and admire all the beautiful work you've done this year. i definitely recommend visiting each city and surrounding areas before moving. as an ace afab southerner, the northern east coast is likely more safe but it depends on the local community and your neighbors.

[@molnotmole3428]

I think you are doing great, and I’m sure you will have plenty to tell us about as you continue to journey through house finding

[@LRWdesign]

Congrats on your channel and Patrons. 🥰❤ I enjoy all your content and look forward to what you share. Thanks for all your hard work also. 😘

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@emmadroste8493]

Oof I feel that PMDD struggle. I just chatted with my doctor about all that. Since I'm a graduate student, I'm so busy getting work done that my sewing falls to the wayside. Especially when I'm busy too I miss taking the medication that really balances my mood out and it becomes a whole ordeal. It feels weird to have to plan my life around the rhythms of my body but I totally understand the cycle of lows and highs. I always love tuning in and I've learned so much from your channel!

[@PolyvoreThea]

Omg your sleeve!!!! I love that moth!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Thea!!

[@janebithell9662]

I have been watching your Channel for a few months now from France. If life has taught me one thing, it is that things never quite turn out as expected or planned. That feeling of "my life will start when I do this that or the other" is so relatable but in truth your life is now so don't be harsh on yourself. I am rooting for you on the house hunting. Happy New Year. 😘

[@catlova567]

I just bought my first 1905 philadelphia rowhome and I fully support you moving over to a historic jewelbox on the east coast. Im about to join your patreon - one thing I love is your insistence on NOT taking sponsorships. I understand the hustle but great content like yours should be and can be supported by your community.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Congratulations on the house!!

[@AuthenticallyKee]

I'm rooting for you to find the house of your dreams. I started house hunting last year (my dream as well) but it has been a nightmare and I have the same concerns about what is a safe place to live as a women, poc, and with children. Delayed is not denied though and I hope you get your dream but also give yourself grace and take care of you because you work hard and you are an inspiration.

[@meagannavarre7228]

I moved back in with my parents two years ago now (I’m 33) so I definitely get where you’re coming from on the “waiting to start certain life things”. I know I won’t be staying in my current town so it felt like it wasn’t good to focus on things like dating and making more friends. I hate putting life on hold like that, but I am looking forward to (hopefully/probably) moving out this year. While I’m grateful for having a place to come back to, I’m just so ready for what’s next. But also stressed as hell thinking of all the logistics and costs of moving. I moved with my senior cat (8 years old) and she did amazingly well on the 2-day drive. I got one of the larger metal crates (a small dog crate that folds away) so she had some room to move a bit and then partially covered the crate with a blanket. She could still see me in the front and out the window. She would meow at times but was ok overall. I just made sure to give her lots of love at night and let her explore the hotel room at her own pace when we stopped for the night. Hopefully that helps some, but my cat does pretty well adapting to new environments once she gets to check everything out.

[@courtneyx9845]

Tips for moving pets: If its possible drive there yourself and book hotels that are pet friendly. Make sure to have a litterbox in your car for the cats to use when needed. Flying is also a great option since you can put them under the seat as your carry-on. But you may have to have people flying with you (your parents) to take extra cats. It depends on the airline. There are also pet transport services you can use. Just check reviews of companies, but i had good luck with this moving my pets internationally.

[@BeowulfIsMinNama]

Come to North Carolina!!! Lots of culture...theatre, history, museums, creatives and lots of festivals!! And the cost of living is so much less! Check out the Salisbury area. It's a quirky artsy historical (pre revolutionary) town! And LGBT++ cool. Completely understand the adulting thing. I didn't truly adult until divorce. I also rediscovered ME after divorce, (no longer being the mom to an overgrown and violent legally adult child, thank goodness!) And, yes, the distracting the brain with other things too! But whatever you do, love ya! And HAPPY NEW YEAR! PS. Beautiful sleeve

[@katynosework]

Reminds me of my ex. He left me for an older woman who had raised 3 sons. Now he’s got his pseudo mom lol

[@maiaohe]

I wish you all the best in the new year. I live in the PNW but I had a chance to visit western Mass. This part of the state is so beautiful.

[@sephestra.]

Ok, moving with cats across country...I've flown with my cats on both Alaska Airlines and Southwest, and had great experiences with both. I did have my vet prescribe Gabapentin, though, to help with the huge amount of stress and anxiety they would have most likely felt otherwise. I've also driven across country with them more than a few times. Hell, they regularly ride in the car for a 7 hour round trip to go to our vet. And since they're geezers, that happens at the very least 3 times a year. We have an SUV which we let them free roam in while we're driving. They have water and food bowls, a litter box, and plenty of quilts and blankets to snuggle in. Their carriers go into a waterproof roof bag and are strapped to the top of the car. We haven't had to use Gabapentin for most car rides, but have it on hand just in case. And I know this is a little late, but as a patron, I'm fine with you releasing all of the videos here. You need to be able to concentrate on finding a town/city/whatever and getting a house. Then you'll need to establish all your utilities, move all your stuff, make sure you get updated driver's license and tags, and generally settle in. I know I don't participate in the polls and whatnot, but it's not for lack of interest. I just, well, I don't support you on patreon to get exclusive stuff. I support you there because I believe the work and talent you put into your videos on YT deserve funding.

[@ljshaw8516]

Happy New Year! Love, love, love your grand finale of your sleeve! Your Spanish moth is fabulous. I received a Spanish moth pendant for Christmas. My cousin had a rough time with PMDD so I empathize for you. The projects you accomplished in 2023 was amazing. Don't be hard on yourself as you have mad skills!!! A new home for you is on your horizon, I can just feel it. Looking forward to see your gems in 2024. Be kind to yourself girl! You deserve it. x's lj in NM born and raised Colorado😄

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!!

[@michelenorine3621]

Bianca, go for the sponsorships and ads-I won't mind at all and I Love all your content. You are a wonderful creator and maker and it will all happen "Your Life" when it is meant to be. You are doing an amazing job of "your Life"!!

[@HikiibatoHada]

Artist and writer in the Denver area here. Me and my partner are looking to move out of the downtown area into a more affordable sq ft that's still close by and it's definitely relatable knowing how future forward one needs to consider one's finances and prospective homes, but how much that can change in the same time frame. I'm definitely having to take each day as it comes and give myself only the minimum check-ins to see. I'm on track just to save my sanity. We have three pets to consider as well, one dog and two cats. The struggle sure is real! A coincidence that my partner is working on his higher degrees and is considering New York is one of his options. I appreciate the life parallels, even though we are the same age You are in a significant next step compared to me. I've been facing a shortage of social opportunities since I moved to Denver last year and so I'd like to extend the possibility of acquaintanceship your way should we ever cross paths. Maybe a local meetup is in your future? Anyway, things will work out and it looks like you're work and productivity were top notch last year. I wish you prosperity and continued success so that everything hard becomes a little easier to manage.

[@dawsie]

I think there is always a time in one’s life where we spend so much time treading water, I am 60 years old I spent 5-6 years looking after Mom helping Dad I moved 800 km which up ended my social life and marriage which has been on hold because we are both looking after a parent each, our saving grace we were never able to have children due to medical problems. When Mom passed away both Dad and I kind of shut down, then I got very sick which put me in hospital almost 5 years ago which I’m still struggling with, just as I was getting back on my feet and after the pandemic Dad suffered multiple micr-strokes which hospitalised him for over 6 months, so we were both back to treading water again, going from one medical disaster to the next. I have only just started to get back into sewing again as well as some of my other hobbies but I have no idea if I will be well enough from day to day to make fixed plans for anything past a few days. Turns out the body takes longer to recover from the size PE I suffered from almost 5 years ago, even though all the smaller clots are gone as well as the massive PE the body still acts as if its there, turns out your heart does not like being squished like mine had been and it keeps acting out as if the saddleback clot is still riding it, Dr said it takes time for muscle memory to fade after that type of stress has been placed on the heart muscle for as long as mine had suffered for. I’m just thankful that I lived through it going by the Drs in the city hospital their first reaction was to ask me “why are you still alive” I laughed think he was joking, he just said no I am serious, he said not only did I have the largest blood clot(PE) he had ever seen riding my heart my whole body was riddled with smaller blood clots from 2-3 mm, and clots 1/4inch and larger in size in both my legs. He said that because I have double the main arteries and double the number of veins in my legs and arms is the only reason I still had blood flowing in my legs and arms, so I’m double the freak lol or just plain lucky. But it also means my heart is doing double the work load keeping both sets of arteries flowing. At least I found out why I always got so tired so quickly as a child 😂 but it also meant I was the number one star patient at the training hospital with all the student Drs taking an interest in me for their end of year exams 🙄🙄🙄 to say I was well looked after was an understatement lol I was glad when the pandemic broke out I had to be moved back to my Rurel hospital to keep me away from any risk of being near a Covid patient. Which meant I stopped getting poked 2-3 times a day from Drs in training 😂😂 All I can say is live your life, you will always find times where you will be treading water rather than swimming up stream, they are your moments of rest from swimming up stream against the current. Enjoy those moments. If your passion for writing then no matter what always put in pen a time for working on it and pencil in all your other activities around it and never the other way around. Set a timer to buzz you and when you hear that buzzer go off then work at rounding off what you are writing before the 2nd buzzer goes off telling you to stop writing. This is something I use to do for set projects years ago, I found it a great way for my many hobbies that I love working on. It was my way of working on at least 2 maybe 3 hobbies in one day. I also used this as a method to get my shopping done extra fast. Only because as a rule I had to go to 4-5 different stores when shopping.

[@hln5819]

As someone whose been to Springfield, New London, and Albany...I would say New London would be my pick - its close enough to hop over to NYC or Boston. New London is so beautiful in the Fall and Spring. Ive never been so syracuse so I'm no help there.... I hear you about human contact - my 2023 has been similarly limited (for different reasons) - but i would say if you see an event or social thing that interests you - definitely go for it.....think of it less as making connections but about making conversations. Sometimes a quick chat can really lighten my mood...and if there is a stronger connection that grows so be it. Don't stop making conversations/ connections because of the move - we live in a tech world and keeping in touch is easier than ever!

[@TheEmeraldElf]

Lewes Delaware has fabulous architecture and famously very pro gay. Flags on houses and zwaandael museum has a display honoring the Drag Beauty contest they had for over a decade plus a Fiji Mermaid. I was only there for a day but the downtown was lovely and my friends from the area all had positive things to say about it.