22 Comments
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Teresa Miller's avatar

Safe travels! It sounds like you are striding into your future full of energy, self-awareness, and confidence. You are amazing. Enjoy your road trip. I like road trips also. So much to see, and explore.

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Violet Clair's avatar

Thank you so much. That means a lot to hear. I’ve been trying to stay present and soak in the in-between moments, and a road trip feels like the perfect way to do that. There really is something so peaceful and expansive about being out on the road. Sending love and appreciation your way.

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Lady Yaz's avatar

So stoked for you and your next adventures! I am, and have been, inspired by your authenticity and sense of adventure.

I'm working on moving *back* to Portland, heh.. and the change, unknowns, and how's are scary, but I feel validated and more secure in this movement from following your own journey.

Also what was the name of your Portland dentist, if you feel ok sharing?

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Violet Clair's avatar

Thank you so much, that really means a lot. And welcome (back) to Portland soon! I totally get how disorienting those big transitions can be, but I love that you’re trusting yourself through it. It’s scary and brave and all the things at once.

(And yes! I went to JRO Dentistry on 33rd in NE they are the best!)

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Lady Yaz's avatar

Yes! You know. Thank you!

And thank you again, I may have to try out that dentist! 😊

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Teagan Russell's avatar

Safe travels back to the East Coast! Thank you for sharing your highlights!

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Violet Clair's avatar

Thank you! It feels surreal to be heading back. It’s a mix of excitement and some sadness, but I’m really glad I’ve had this space to share it all. 💛

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K8's avatar

That dentist sounds like a dream! If anyone knows the name please share. Safe travels back to NY.

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Violet Clair's avatar

JRO Dentistry on 33rd in NE. The BEST!!!

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Elizabeth's avatar

Sushiritos are criminally underrated and I hope you find them in your new home!

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Violet Clair's avatar

Truly! Nothing like a giant sushi burrito to restore your will to live. I’ll definitely be on the lookout, and if not, I guess I’ll just have to start a one-woman campaign to bring them east.

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Dani O'Brien Buckley's avatar

Hiii I’m not sure where else to contact but I’m trying to become a paid subscriber but I literally can’t figure out how to. Substack keeps saying I’m subscribed but only to free version and doesn’t give me options. Just thought you might want to know. And I’d love to be a paid subscriber!

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LV's avatar

It took me a few tries to figure this out too, but you have to become paid in a browser, not the Substack app (apologies if you’ve tried that and it also hasn’t worked for you, then I’m out of suggestions). Not the fault of Violet Claire, it’s really annoying that Substack doesn’t make that more accessible in the app.

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Dani O'Brien Buckley's avatar

Ohhh okay thanks! Yeah been only on app. Thanks!!!

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LV's avatar

You’re welcome!

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Violet Clair's avatar

Yayyy! Thank you for helping to sort this out! Idk why Substack makes it so confusing!

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Violet Clair's avatar

Yay! Welcome to the paid tier <3!!

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thaíssa's avatar

hey! I am reading your post from a tiny city in the middle of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil called Belem - which also happens to be my home. I moved back home in January after 10 years abroad (living between San Diego for awhile and then Lisbon) I share some feelings that I don’t know what’s coming next - maybe feeling a bit lost? I can’t really name how I’m feeling, and reading your post made me feel so much. I hope I can put into words my love for these cities just like you did to Portland. I loved every line of it and wishing you the best luck in NYC. great things are waiting for your on your way back! xx

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Violet Clair's avatar

Thank you so much for this. I got goosebumps reading it. It sounds like you’re in such a tender, in-between place, and I really relate to that feeling of not quite being able to name where you’re at. Coming home after so long away is such a layered experience. I hope you do write about your love for these places when the words start to come. And thank you again for your kindness. Wishing you so much ease and clarity as you settle into this next chapter.

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Jess's avatar

If you happen to still be in Bozeman, and love a soft pretzel, the sticks from Mountain Walking Brewery are the best I ever had. Stopped there on my XC move TO Portland for a road snack and it delivers. Enjoy the sights! After one year living here, I too share the sentiments in your love letter to Portland. Good luck on what is next! x

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Violet Clair's avatar

I just left Bozeman and I already want to go back. I didn’t make it to Mountain Walking Brewery, but now I’ve got the soft pretzel sticks at the top of my list for next time. Thanks for the tip. And I love hearing that Portland has worked its magic on you too. It’s such a special place. Appreciate the kind words so much.

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Javier's avatar

Nice article….you made the right choice though….as Portland is in a doom loop unfortunately.https://www.portlandtribune.com/business/urban-doom-loop-likely-fueling-regional-governnent-deficits/article_3fee897a-f956-11ef-a698-237635a78c4a.html

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