House Closing

[CateP]

Well today is the BIG day!! I am going to close on my new house in Wolfeboro in one hour. Incredible journey. For those of you who are thinking of moving here and living here full-time, I offer this advice:

• Spend at least a month or more in the area you think you want to move to
• Rent first if possible
• Read the local paper and go to as many local events as you can
• Get involved in community groups or activities you love
• Talk to store owners and others you meet and let them know you are new (it's amazing how people will respond)
• Listen to people
• Put on your diplomat hat and be sensitive to local ways
• Make an effort to talk to people who are not like you, you would be amazed at what you will learn
• Make sure you feel like you can integrate into the area easily and LOVE what goes on (if you feel some things are lacking, you may not be happy)
• If you are coming from the "rat race" (NJ,NY,MA) be ready to put down your sword and relax. People are generally a lot less stressed here and smiles are more common than frowns.
• If you are a "gay, liberal, tree-hugger"...yes even you, will find friends, open minds and hearts.