Bonjour! Bonjour! How are you?
Apologies for an extended blogging break. In short, I’ve been busy.
In long, I’ve thrown myself into Geneva life. These days I have French courses, toddler music classes, pre-school and playdates. I went out with different friends last Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights! I’m pretty sure I was in my 20s the last time I did that. After years of expat loneliness (which, incidentally, is great fodder for writing), I’m busy. I have plans. I’m booked.
Let me tell you, this is a turning point for any expat. Especially for the “trailing spouse.”
First, you move to your adopted country and everything is an adventure. Taking the bus is exciting. Going to the grocery store is a thrill. Then you’re obsessed with traveling to every country within a 500-mile radius. You scour Skyscanner and Airbnb with gusto. Instagram becomes your second reality. And finally, you’re exhausted. All you want to do it sit down with a good friend and a glass of wine.
But it takes a long time to cultivate friendships and even longer in a place where people keep coming and going. (I’ve never been to more “going away parties” in my life.) Do you know how nice it is to be out of the “first date” phase of friendships? To not be asking “Where are you from?” and “What do you do?” Do you know how sweet it is to say “Remember that time we…” to your friend? It’s hard to know how good you have it until you start over. It’s taken me more than four years to get here, so if you are just beginning your own expat journey, be patient.
As for me? Please be happy that the blog has suffered. I promise to write and post as much as I can. After all, winter is coming…. Meanwhile, a few links for your Wednesday:
I’m seriously considering buying this suitcase — thoughts?
10 ways to save money for your next vacation
A spooky idea for Halloween: Visit a ghost town
Our next international trip is a big one
This is why I’ll never write a parenting book
Condé Nast just released their Reader’s Choice Awards for Best Cities
Bakersfield Blonde 