Toto, I don't think we're in LA anymore

And so begins my "or some other town" portion of this blog. I realize it has been too long since I've posted anything (and to the few who check this regularly... Mom and Jamie ;) I apologize. This morning I traveled six miles to the closest Starbucks with Nick so he could use the internet and I could get some homework done for the week. From having Starbucks in the same building in Seattle, to down the block in LA, this small portion of my daily routine is already in shock.

I have been in Las Cruces for almost a week now and feel no closer to being "home." However, in an effort not to be a Debbie Downer, here are the redeeming factors I have found New Mexico to offer:

• A house: Yes, I realize this may be obvious, but I'm not sure any other location would have allowed me to be a homeowner so soon. I also get to take part in homeowner-ish things like painting, landscaping, and problems my guest bathroom seems to be having
• Antiquing: This is the part of the country where antiques are just old things to most residents, which is GREAT for me because I'm finding pieces that would have cost much more if found on Melrose
• Alcohol is still sold in grocery stores: Although my mom was less than enthused to hear my excitement for this discovery, it is still a big plus for NM to be selling hard alcohol in stores, preventing me from having to scout out a liquor store (any bars worth visiting still have yet to be discovered)

The list is short, I know, but at least there is one. The glass is half full, right? I also hear it's snowing in LA right now. Getting stranded on the 405 is something I definitely do not envy.

As mentioned to Amanda, I've started my 24 month countdown calendar until I move back home to LA (think those old advent chains you used to make as a child). I can't wait until Feb 1 to take off the first link!