New Beginnings
Where has time gone? That seems to be the question we often ask ourselves. As I step back to look at my website - my poor, neglected website, I recognize I have a lot to discuss… a story to tell. The question I have now is… where to begin?
Three years ago, my wonderful partner moved to Long Island so our relationship could develop and grow - a selfless decision curated by our love. She changed careers, packed her back, and left her home state (an adventure she’d never done before) all for me. Her home state being Massachusetts - mine being New Hampshire - I made her a promise. I promised that within 5 years of her move, I would relocate us back to New England where we could be close to our families, our dogs could have a yard to sun themselves in, and we could begin a new life we can build together.
Cue 2020. COVID-19. The great shutdown. Everyones lives changed so drastically, and the time away from our families hurt our hearts. After not seeing any family for 6 months, my family allowed a visit that was done outside, at a picnic table. What a strange world that we could sit across the table from one another, smile, and laugh. But to reach out and receive a warm hug and comfort wasn't “allowed”. It was in that moment that I decided now was the time. As I begrudgingly drove home to Long Island, my mind raced with thoughts and ideas. It was that moment that I knew. I walked in the door and looked at my partner as the words fell out of my mouth: “We are moving”.
“With you, I am home.”
It has now been 18 months since I made that decision. The fastest, yet slowest 18 months of my life. Listing my Long Island home. Packing our lives. Finding a new job… 300 miles away. Moving back in with my parents (thanks Mom and Dad!). Falling in love with houses, making offers, losing offers. Becoming discouraged. Questioning my choices and decisions - and experiencing regret. And finally… experiencing the joy (and fear) with having an offer accepted on a house - our new beginning.
Experiencing my feelings has been like experiencing the seasons of New England - ever changing. I have encountered many personal challenges - including my own self doubts - on whether coming back to New Hampshire was a wise decision. Starting over is never easy. But as we just celebrated 6 months in our charming new home, I am forever grateful. What a beautiful life we have - full of vibrance, delightful energy, and love. As I am beginning to feel my inner fire return, I am excited about the adventures awaiting me and opportunities around the corner. After all, this is my fresh start — and now… I am home.
Making Our Home Ours
In true Meghann fashion, I wasted no time in making our new home everything I wanted it to be. In fact, within 12 hours of closing our moving truck had delivered our belongs and the flooring on the first floor was removed. I had a vision for our little New England country farm house, and nothing was getting in my way! I am often asked what I used in my home redesign, and figured this was the perfect place to share those details.
First and foremost: HUGE shout out to Ashley Gray at Re/Max Realty for her expertise and guidance in the home buying process. Additional thanks to Gladys White at RMS Mortgage for being my Lender Fairy Godmother and the entire sale being effortlessly smooth and uncomplicated.
Flooring: A lot of research went into the flooring to choose the highest quality materials that would withstand a life with (a lot) of dogs. In fact, I compiled my favorite samples and proceeded to stab and slice them with steak knives to see which would hold up the best. Ultimately, I chose SMARTCORE Ultra in Lexington Oak which was purchased from Lowes. Though a costly update, I know it’ll last a lifetime.
Paint: Anyone in New Hampshire who needs painting, go speak to Matthew Levreault at once! After consulting on my goals of the home, we concluded that the main color be Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray. Other accented colors throughout the home include Sherwin Williams Peppercorn and Sherwin Williams Sea Salt. The look was completed with white doors and trim, sliding barn doors, dutch doors on the bedrooms, and stunning black hardware.
General Contracting: Another shout out to the Gray family, with my realtors husband at Robert Gray Contracting who saved the day with so many projects! From decking, bathroom remodeling, and a whole new roof… he does it all!
A Celebration Dinner
It seemed appropriate to finally celebrate our home, but more so, thank my amazing parents for their many months of hospitality while we house hunted. The date of the dinner also coincided with my mothers birthday, and what is more like home than singing Happy Birthday and blowing our candles surrounded by those we love?!
To end this (scattered) post with a nightcap - per se - I also wish to share the recipe I (found and tweaked) for an amazing fall beverage. To all my beautiful friends and followers, thank you for your patience and understanding while I have found my road back home.
Apple Cider Sangria
1 bottle (standard size) of Pinot Grigio
2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider
1 cup club soda
1/2 cup ginger brandy
3 cups chopped apples (I used honey crisp)
3 chopped pears
3-5 Cinnamon sticks, shaved slightly for extra flavor
Garnish with Cranberries
