Guest column by Kira Sable: 20 years in Friday Harbor - A love letter to my community
It’s hard to begin a letter like this. How do I explain why I’m leaving the most beautiful, close-knit, supportive community I could ever dream of? After 20 years on the island, I’ll be moving to Minneapolis the second week of March, to be closer to my daughter Audrey. I’m hoping for great job prospects, better management of my Crohn’s Disease with a top-notch GI specialist nearby, a chance for romance, and a fresh start in an exciting and vibrant city with a lower cost of living. But before I go, I want to say thank you, for the best 20 years of my life.
I moved here from Oceanside, CA with my family in July 2003. I had never lived in a small town before. I never imagined how wonderful it would feel to be accepted and welcomed into this perfectly beautiful place. My kids grew up here, and are better people because of it. Every family has struggles like divorce, illness and injury, deaths, and things you could never predict. Going through those things in our supportive community not only gave me strength to keep going, but inspired me to try my best to help other people going through similar troubles. You taught me how to be kind.
I’ve enjoyed so many adventures and rich experiences on San Juan Island, and my emotions are heavy when I think about what I’ll be losing by moving to a big city. There won’t be nice people I know on the street, or in every store or business I go to. It’s going to take some time to feel established and to make new friends. I don’t even have a job yet. I’m going from a place where I know everyone, to a place I don’t know anybody.
However, I’m going to do my best to make a name for myself in Minneapolis, and have lots of plans to get involved in the musical community there. Stay tuned!
Let me also say that there are exciting, amazing things to do and see in the Midwest. It’s not just cold. It’s beautiful, and the sky is blue almost every day. It’s the home of Prince, the Vikings, the Twins, the Timberwolves, the Mall of America, and so much more. Please come visit me. My new apartment has a beautiful view of the Mississippi River.
My new address is 115 2nd Avenue South, #1601, Minneapolis MN 55401. kirawak@hotmail.com Please come to my goodbye party at Brickworks, with the Chameleons and Tommy Dale and the Dangerfields. It’s for 21 and up only, on March 4, from 6-9pm.
Don’t forget about me. I’ll always remember you.
Love always,
Kira Sable