July has finally come to an end, bringing closure to a chaotic yet enlightening chapter of our lives. After moving out of our apartment, we’ve embraced a lifestyle of intentional nomadism. We are temporarily staying with kind-hearted friends. We keep shifting from one home to another. We’ll continue living in these “digs” until at least the end of 2025. While this arrangement is far from the stability I’d envisioned, it has unexpectedly offered valuable insights.

First, this transient life has starkly revealed how much unnecessary clutter we’ve accumulated. Facing the reality of packing and moving frequently, I was shocked by the sheer volume of items we’ve collected over the years—clothes we never wore, kitchen gadgets gathering dust, and miscellaneous knick-knacks without purpose. Letting go was initially overwhelming, but ultimately liberating. Donating these items to local shelters serving both humans and animals has made me appreciate simplicity and purposeful living even more deeply.

Also, I’ve come to view some items, such as physical books and art supplies, as precious privileges. Despite my resistance to digitizing these beloved possessions, practicality has compelled me to adapt. Physical books and tactile art materials symbolize stability and comfort, luxuries that a nomadic lifestyle doesn’t easily accommodate. It’s been a bittersweet realization, underscoring how owning a home—or simply having permanent living arrangements—is increasingly unattainable yet deeply desired among millennials. Homeownership symbolizes not just stability but the freedom to cultivate a personal space filled with meaningful possessions, a reality sadly elusive for many of us who navigate financial constraints and uncertain housing markets.

Throughout this upheaval, Cookie has truly been an anchor. Her adaptability continues to impress me. Although this situation undoubtedly impacts her, we’ve maintained a gentle routine filled with play and learning new tricks indoors. Limited outdoor activities, exacerbated by our current lack of transportation, haven’t dampened her spirits or ours.

Meanwhile, Dog Dad continues his diligent job search while I steadily progress on my dissertation. The highlight amidst all this uncertainty has been the acceptance of my article for publication, a milestone that fills me with pride and renewed optimism. Our current mantra is simple yet powerful: stay grounded, productive, and focused on building a brighter future, one day at a time.

Although I’ve enjoyed petsitting for supplementary income, logistical challenges without a car have made it increasingly difficult. I’m considering taking a break to focus more closely on Cookie and my dissertation work. Meanwhile, I’m still searching for the perfect beginner inflatable paddleboard. Recently, kayaking and paddling have significantly improved my mental and physical well-being. Once I secure that elusive paddleboard, Cookie and I will undoubtedly spend even more rejuvenating hours together on the water, finding peace amidst life’s unpredictability.

Love from Cookie & Seda ❤️