We came to the UK with a one year plan. But now three quarters of that year have passed and I'm feeling so unsure about our plan.
It seems like we just got here. I've just started to make real friendships. The kids are settled in their schools. And despite our constant travel schedule I still have a long list of places to visit and things to see in this part of the world.
And as much as I'd like to be closer to our extended family again, I'm not so sure I'm ready to go back.
But we have to make a decision soon. Very soon. And that weighs heavily on my mind.
I understand your feelings. We had only a 10 month plan but extended for another year - and we'd both love to stay beyond that, though it's unlikely we will be able too. Sometimes I feel guilty - liking it here so much and wanting to stay when we have family/friends at home - but I too am enjoying friendships, the culture and this gorgeous country. Ugh...just wanted to empathize. Hugs to you!
ReplyDeleteJenny you just wrote exactly how I am feeling right now! Ugh it is so frustrating, and on top of it, every single person I come in contact with asks me "when are you leaving" So I am constantly confronted with it. The thing that keeps me sane is this: enjoy today. Enjoy this time, wherever we are living, because before I know it I will be back "home" and the everyday life won't be nearly as exciting! Hang in there...xo a fellow expat in limbo.
ReplyDeleteoh dear, it is never easy, although it is always extraordinary! I will say a prayer for peace of mind. You make it look really really fun so I can see where the "plan" may need to be revised!
ReplyDeleteI hear you, Jenny. A year is a difficult time period to be in a place-- that is just when you are feeling at home, enjoying relationships, etc. I am sure it's hard to invest on a daily basis, if you don't know if you will be here to see it pay off. And having kids who are also going through the transitions definitely adds another layer of complexity. Sending you thoughts of clarity and peace about this decision...
ReplyDeleteThinking of you and wishing it were not so crazy here with my sister visiting so we could have a chat. Thinking of you and I AM confident that you and your husband will make the right decision. Kisses!
ReplyDeleteSuch a hard decision. I know I am just starting to feel at home after almost a year. It would be so hard to weigh the comfort and convenience of home against the adventures that await here in the UK. I'll be thinking of you as you make this big decision!
ReplyDeleteI know how it feels. Especially after witnessing the beauty of the world, it's natural to feel heavy leaving all these behind :)
ReplyDeleteIf I were you, I'd stay. There's a part of me that still wishes I'd been able to live in Berlin for longer than a year.
ReplyDeleteThe uncertainty is a killer at times, isn't it!! And this country is so dense with things to see and do - I don't want to miss a single thing :)
ReplyDeleteWe also had a 1 yrs plan to live in Scotland. We hit 4 yrs in February! Sometimes I'd like to move on...somewhere...but other's I'd be happy to stay for much longer. I do feel if I went back to the States I'd go through culture shock. I know it won't be like I think it will. We only ever remember the good.
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