Location, Location, Location

Image via VisionMobile.com

Having just moved from one city to another—and then another—and landing in Fort Wayne, Ind., I have spent a great deal of time thinking and explaining what is important about where you hang your hat. There are several things that can draw people from place to place. George Straight makes a very strategic decision for New Orleans in this song. But after much consideration I wanted to share with you my top 5 when choosing where to settle—at least for now.

1. People. You know how LA-folks are sort of known for being rude? Well, I have found that around the Midwest, people are for the most part very down-to-earth, honest and genuine to the core. Oh, and also this is number one on my list because wherever you are, if you’re with people you love and can have/make fun with then…you’re home.
2. Community Involvement/Investment. Is your community investing in itself? Working towards improvement? Are there ample opportunities to get involved, lend a hand & give back? The answer should be a resounding yes. In Fort Wayne, it certainly is.
3. Accessibility. Wherever you are, you want to be able to travel and see other places. Nothing fun about being in one place all the time. What’s around you? Can you get there for a weekend get-a-way?
4. Weather. For some this may mean the unchanging 60-degree weather, and for a while that’s what it meant to me. But I eventually got homesick for the winter white experience, and bug-infested scorcher of a summer. (Yes, you heard me right. Bug bites and all.) Go where you can appreciate and love the climate—or else you’ll spend the majority of the year complaining about temperature. For me, for the time being, that’s right where I am.
5. Affordability. This goes along with number 3. In Fort Wayne, cost of living is low enough that travel is a bit more affordable for me than if I lived in San Diego still. Wherever you live, whatever home or area it may be, don’t strap yourself. Give yourself the room (and cash flow) to get out and about.
6. Water. This is the one I had to give on a little—or a lot. It was extremely tough for me to move away from a coast. Growing up on the cliffs, and having a 5 second walk to the beach most of my life, this is what I get homesick for. However, Fort Wayne has over 100 lakes just north of us and during the warmer months it can be an every weekend destination.

   So… where do you hang your hat? And, why?