…… it’s time for me to tell you, my first NY apartment, goodbye.
And while I feel a bit emotional …… there are no tears in this goodbye.
That’s because I have nothing but great memories with you.
You were my first NY home. And while you were small-ish, you’ve slept over 10 people at a time.
You turned out to be in a terrific building where I’ve made some great friends. You even welcomed one of my widow friends last month, making my life even fuller.
I didn’t think that was possible.
You were never just an apartment …… you were home.
You helped me fulfill a dream that Jim and I started talking about …… but never got to do. Together.
You made it easy for this “Texan” to make the leap and start her “Second Plan A” …… all on her own.
You been a home to two of my children, a couple of cats and a couple of dogs.
You’ve hosted Christmases and Thanksgivings. All very full and somewhat cramped, but joyful and memorable.
I only have one regret about leaving you.
And that’s because of your name.
I wish I could take your name with me.
You see, your name is more than a letter and a number.
To me.
And to our children.
Your name immediately told me that this was the apartment for me.
Your name took away any nervousness I felt about choosing you.
I will never forget you …… because of your name.
8J.
J for Janine.
And Jim.
8 for our family.
There were 8 of us.
I love the number 8.
So thank you, 8J.
Thank you for helping me to know, and feel, that New York is my home.
My Second Plan A 
Wow, apartment 8J was meant to be! As a fellow widow I’ve certainly learned to embrace my Memories. Life is full of changes, and as a widow I think I feel change more deeply than I did before. I’ve certainly had lots of change in the last 11 years of widowhood. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this next change in your life! 🙂
Wow that’s pretty cool and such a sign that it was a great step. Although I still prefer Texas to NYC ( I guess cuz I always had my and you always had Texas) I wish you love into your new home
Congratulations. Love your story. Are you in the same area of your old apartment?
Yep! I’m in the same building. 😃
Congratulations on the new place. Even though I haven’t met you, I have been following you since “that” happened. You have been and are an inspiration to all of us.
Thank you, Bev. You just made my heart smile. It’s nice to “meet” you. ❤️
I love Godwinks like your 8J story. I’ve never met you either, but I’ve been following your journey for a long time. You helped me through some really rough days!! I can’t wait to find out what the future holds for you!!
Sharon, Thank you so much for commenting and telling me you’ve been following my journey. People like you and Bev touch my heart more than you could know. I really have no clue as to the people who are out there, cheering me on, so when you comment I’m surprised …… and so very blessed. It’s nice to “meet” you, too. Thank you for being there. ❤