I'm Moving...

... to a new blog.

Since starting A North Star in an Eastern Sky about seven months ago, I've learned a lot. I've learned about branding, growing a readership, some basic HTML. I've stretched myself as a person as I've explored blogging about different categories: cooking, budgeting, crafting. I thoroughly enjoyed the learning process. But, I've also learned what I'm not. I'm not a food blogger or DIY blogger. I don't like the ball of envy that fills my stomach when I see the success of other bloggers or the ways in which I've tried to emulate that success.

About a month ago, Manda started an interview series on her blog. I let her know I was interested in participating, and she sent me some interview questions. While it wasn't the right time for me personally to participate in an blogger interview, I've been reflecting on one of the questions she asked me: what do you wish you knew when you started blogging?

What do I wish I knew? I wish that I knew that my blog doesn't have to look like someone else's. My markers of success will be different than someone else's. It is okay if you don't: post daily, have lots of pageviews, or participate in link parties. Create something that you are proud of and that inspires you, the rest will follow.

So, I'm starting over. I'm so excited to create a new space that feels more authentic and personal. I sincerely hope that you'll join me.

As Always, Kara

Life Lately

Hi Friends. Things have been a little sporadic here on the blog, and I think that trend might be continuing for a little bit. I was promoted at work, which was pretty exciting. Proof that my hard work is being noticed and is paying off. However, this also means that I'll be working extra over the next few weeks while I'm training for my new role.

So, lately we've been:

• treating ourselves to cones and milkshakes when we really didn't want to do our laundry, but did it anyways.
• playing lots of board games since I finally own Settlers of Catan (thanks Mom!)
• I've been obsessed with putting fresh fruit on salads. Mango, any type of berry, and kiwi over salad greens with walnuts... delish.
• I've really wanted a sleeveless chambray shirt. Since I'm not shopping, I decided to risk cutting off the sleeves of an old long-sleeved chambray shirt that I had in the back of my closet. Success!

Hope all is well with you, chickadee. Hoping to get back into my blogging groove soon.

He Doesn't Owe Me a Ring.

In the course of meeting someone new, like a coworker or a friend of a friend, one of the first things I'm asked is, "why did you move to New Jersey?" After explaining that my boyfriend found a job here and after two and a half years of long-distance we were ready to be in the same place, the new person will inevitably respond, "He better put a ring on your finger soon."

Sigh.

This statement creates such a whirlwind of emotions. Frustration: this move will only be "worth it" if he marries me. Disbelief: would you want someone to marry you out of obligation instead of feelings/commitment/desire to? Sadness: this person does not recognize my ability to choose a path nor do they see the personal growth that comes from this type of decision. So, let me lay out my feelings on the subject.

I am incredibly lucky to be in my relationship and to be so deeply cared for by another person. I am also incredibly lucky to have friends and family that supported me to take this risk. But, here's the thing: it's my risk. Keith didn't force me to move here. I was the one who said, "I'm going to move to New Jersey." While he was the only thing drawing me towards New Jersey, it was my decision.

Even though I've only been in New Jersey for six months, I have gained so much. I've grown as a person as I've learned how to stand on my own feet, conquering goals I never thought I'd accomplish (riding the NYC subway alone? check! Living without a car? check!) I've learned to take care of myself. I'm learning how to get by on less. I'm learning how to make new friends as an adult. These skills will last a lifetime, regardless of who I marry.

And, frankly, I don't want someone to marry me because they feel obligated or guilty or like they have to. I want someone to marry me because they want to marry me.