Settling Down?

I landed in this town a year and a half ago, expecting it to be a stepping stone. Now I anticipate building my career, my family, my life here. This environment is much different from the urban lifestyle I had imagined, but I think it may be more suitable. In many ways I suspect that my desire for urban living is based largely off consumerism; often I will wish for product availability, a better selection at the cinema, an ethnic restaurant. Another dream of mine has been to reside in a somewhat utopian community where I can promote recycling and adopt a highway, buy eggs from my neighbors, and provide/improve education in the local school system, university, or within the community. Why do I feel torn, as though my future were tour package options and I have only one Great Vacation? Sometimes I feel as though my wonderful opportunities have placed expectations on me. Because I have traveled far and experienced great things, I think my family, for example, assumes that I would not find happiness doing anything else, or that eventually I will end up in a loft apartment where I belong. Yes, I am still young and fabulous, but things that sound appealing at 21 are lonelier at 25. It is time for me to start establishing roots and growing strong. I believe I can continue traveling and learning while living a modest, happy home life in the sun the rest of the year. I believe I can accomplish what I want, have it all, and be well, and this hope has brought me peace.