City Lights to Mountain Heights: Our New Life in The White Mountains

by Jonathan Austen

Amidst The White Mountains, a landscape as if brushed by nature’s hand, our lives have settled into a new tempo. With three years on this path, the city’s noise is now a far-off echo, swapped for a tranquil hug that comforts and ignites our spirits. These mountains, steadfast and reaching, stand as a testament to transformation, evolution, and the close-knit community that now feels like kin.

Every morning, there’s this wonderful calmness that comes over us, a nice change from the busy city life. The sun casts a soft and warm light over the mountaintops. Instead of annoying alarms and noisy traffic, we wake up to the sound of pines gently moving and the soft touch of the early morning light. Every sunrise tells us that a brand new day is here, a new part of the story ready to start in this incredibly beautiful place. And you know what’s even better? Enjoying a cup of coffee while sitting on a rocking chair on the porch, taking it all in.

But these mountains are not mere witnesses; they’re catalysts that shape our story. My journey began with a camera, a pursuit I had never considered in my city days. Through the lens, I capture the raw energy of rodeos, the courage of cowboys, and the essence of small towns. And it’s not just the photography that has blossomed here; inspiration has ignited my writing too, as if the mountains themselves are whispering stories that demand to be shared.

And then there’s my wife, a dreamer turned actress in the most unexpected of places. Though she’s only graced the stage once so far, she eagerly awaits the next opportunity, her passion ignited by the very air of this place. It’s a transformation that’s as heartwarming as it is unexpected – a reminder that sometimes the most fulfilling roles are the ones we least expect to play.

Our community is more than just people; it’s a tapestry woven from shared experiences and laughter. Potluck dinners have become a regular affair, where recipes are traded like precious gems. Neighbors have become more than just faces; they’re friends who share fresh eggs and gardening tips.
Speaking of gardening, I must confess that my attempts at nurturing plants tend to end in rather unfortunate outcomes. It’s as if my touch has the reverse effect, sadly burying my green aspirations. But, let’s steer back to the main topic at hand.

Camping, a newfound adventure for us, has become a cherished escape. We may not be wilderness experts, but there’s something liberating about trading city comforts for starlit nights and crackling campfires. It’s a dance with the great outdoors that we’ve come to enjoy, even if we’re still learning the steps.

Looking back, these three years in The White Mountains have been nothing short of a symphony of change and growth. The city’s tumultuousness feels like a distant memory, replaced by a landscape that has become an integral part of our story. Amid these mountains, we’ve found not just a place to live but a place to truly belong. As the days continue to unfold against this majestic backdrop, we remain in awe of the journey that brought us here and the community that surrounds us.

As we look forward to life in The White Mountains, it feels like the next chapters of our story are just waiting to be written. These mountains have become more than just a backdrop; they’re a part of us no I’m excited to see how my photography and writing will evolve in this environment that never ceases to inspire. Our life here is a gift, not just because of the stunning landscapes, but because of the friendships we’ve formed. From neighbors who feel like family to strangers who become friends from the get-go, the sense of community is like nothing we’ve ever experienced. The White Mountains have this amazing warmth about them, and we consider ourselves truly lucky to live here. It’s a place that’s not just about where you are, but who you’re with. If anyone is looking for a place that’s not just picturesque but also welcoming beyond words, they should definitely consider coming here to experience it for themselves.

See Jonathans work on display in the White Mountain Gallery.

Discover more about Jonathan Austen and his work here.

Pictures of Jonathan and his wife Elizabeth.