I am going to like it here

It's been just a few days, and it seems I am settling in to my new life pretty well. I rode my brand new red bicycle to the farmers market for the first time. The bike was a very thoughtful -and hopeful- gift from someone last Christmas. It has a cute wicker basket that comes off at a touch of a button so the basket can go shopping with me while the bike waits. How cool is that?

Santa Cruz feels far more like a small village than a good size city that it really is. It probably helps that we live so close to downtown that everything is either walking distance or riding distance. Mind you, everything here is nothing much compared to what's up in the city but I think I'm going to like it anyway.

Adding to the village-y feeling is the fact that our best friends in town, Eric and Cill, live right across the street. They checked on me to make sure that I was fine on my first night at the new home, when David was gone on a business trip. They took me to dinner at Eric's bistro, Oswald, the second night, and earlier this evening Eric was here building bookshelves. It's like we've got our own little Mayberry going over here.

The new house is agreeing with our little cat pretty well too. I don't think she's ever lived in a house with a staircase: she has been so captivated by it that she spent all day today sleeping on this step and that. She's also been peering outside the huge Victorian windows, soon she'll even muster enough courage to venture outside.

I am really going to like it here.

Comments

[shuna fish lydon]

From one new home and unpacking person to another, welcome to a new life.

I walked to the Cheeseboard this morning to watch the early hustle & bustle of North Berkeley life and eat some yum brioche. It feels like a little town here too with all the blossoms abloom and Meyer lemons to pick everywhere.

[sam]

Sending lots of happy housewarming vibes in your direction. So... I am dying to know, did you make the pancakes for dinner in the end??
I recently purchased some manresa vouchers so now I have NO EXCUSE not to go there for dinner one day in the not too distant future.

[Bea at La Tartine Gourmande]

Ah nothing beats being able to run your errands with your bike! Superb looking bike you have!
When I lived in New Zealand, my bike was my car, and such was the case in France while living in the city.

[Mangeur]

Welcome to God's country, Pim. You will love living in Santa Cruz. I grew up in the county, and whenever I revisit its beautiful coast, hills and valleys, I have to wonder why I left. Callow youth, I suppose. Enjoy.

[Barbara Fisher]

I adore Santa Cruz, Pim. The last time we were in the Bay Area, we visited there, and fell in love with the place. I like it even better than I like Berkeley and the city.

Enjoy yourself!

[matana]

I love Santa Cruz.
It's one of places I can always go back for a visit.
I have a favourite coffee place downtown where there's a little garden with red-brick wall at the back. Forgot the names though.

I'm sure you will have a great time there but a little wish wouldn't hurt. All the best!

[barbara]

Cute bike. Happy housewarming Pim.

[Gerald]

Good luck to you in your new 'hood Pim, you're much closer to the beaches now!

[Fatemeh]

Welcome home, ma chere.

[SamanthaF]

Pimcess,

Have fun in your new home.

S. xx

[Tejal]

best of luck Pim, sounds lovely--your bike is very cute too! Can't wait to hear more about the food scene there.

[Barry]

Ahh, Santa Cruz. Many of my best hippie memories come from there!

Enjoy your new home!
Cheers
Barry

[Lisa]

when I saw the pix, I thought you moved to Holland! Great bike+wicker basket. Have fun in your new abode, Pim!

[lee]

Once I road my bike down the coast. I was in Halfmoon Bay and found out that Bonny Doon's tasting room wasn't that far away. I got there after they closed so I camped in the woods nearby. I remember the hill to get there was a bitch. Then there was Santa Cruz. I remember stoppping at a pay phone by the water to call my parents and let them know that I had shipped them a case of wine. Aren't I a good daughter?

[J. Kinch]

Happy to hear you are enjoying Santa Cruz..
It is a fun place..

[joe]

heyz.....greetings from malaysia.....student chef currently...u do have nice pics...glad to find your blog

[Jetset]

Congrats on settling in. Bikes are always the best way to get around. Unless of course you live in hills, in which case you need a moped

[Juls]

Great news, Pim. Lots of happy housewarming vibes to you!

[jimmy-in-Seattle]

Hi Pim......It's been awhile. Hope u r well...Go to Franklin point and walk, and breathe deep. Go out to the end, and take a nap on one of the dunes facing the ocean! I often think of that place.....After a awhile when you move back to the city you will be soooo very very happy!!!

[Sweetnicks]

Good luck in your new home - sounds like you're settling in nicely. Love the picture!

[Ulterior Epicure]

welcome back to the states, pim!

u.e.

[Pim]

Thank you so much everyone for your kind wishes. I got sick pretty much after this day and just got properly recovered this past weekend, so I am so far behind in answering these comments. My apology.

We are now going full steam with unpacking...wish me luck!

thanks again,
Pim

[minipanda]

A random question from a usually silent observer (albeit a bit delayed): Where is your wonderful wicker basket from?? I've been looking for something like that for years!

Congrats on your wonderful site and your new home. -From an ardent reader.

[Brett]

Don't know if you'll see this comment, but I want to thank you for mentioning Oswald in this post. N and I just spent an impromptu night in Santa Cruz and had a wonderful dinner at this 36-seat bistro. N commented afterwards that it was one of the better meals we'd had in a while. The food and wine selection were equally innovative. We were saddened to learn that they have to relocate soon, because the current space is charming. When I get a chance, I hope to post about our experience in more detail on my blog.

[victoria]

Hi! I am in love with your bike, but especially your basket! Can you tell me the maker? OR any info on how to/where to purchase one?

Much appreciated.
~Vic.