Last week, my husband informed me that I'm miserable. He said the only time I smile any more is when I'm with my son. I got defensive and very woe is me like and asked is that why I can't make any friends here - because I have an air of misery?? Followed by a quick exit of the room to go and clean something (that's what woman do. We clean things when we're upset). Later when I was ready to talk, I asked him, 'Is that really how you see me?' He said, 'yes, but I know why you're miserable and I know what I have to do to change it.'
So, we're going back to the States. Wayne hopes to do it next summer, but there is a lot to be done before then so as long as it doesn't take another 2 years, I'm just glad the decision has been made.
We've talked about doing it before, but then the recession hit and our businesses suffered and the plans had to be nixed. We're doing better now and we're going to hit the ground running. Earlier this week, I started Wayne's Green Card application. Once it's sent and the money is paid, it will be the official start of our long trip home.
Maybe there is no shame in admitting defeat. Maybe me and England were never meant to be. Five years is a long time to go without friends and without family. I am officially admitting defeat and going back before I am forever changed by this experience.
My in-laws just left after a five day visit. I don't mind it being a five day visit, but then again, five days of your house not being your own is always a bit unsettling and although I don't look forward to their departure when they are here, I can't say I'm sad to have things go back to normal. As a treat for my son's birthday, we took him to the Museum of Natural History in London on Thursday. He chose to go because we took him last year (he's been crazy about dinosaurs since he was three years old). They give out adventure packs at the museum which consist of a back pack, safari hat, and binoculars with an adventure to follow during their visit. The back pack has clues in it to solve a mystery. Last year it had a dinosaur claw, a tooth and a sample of dinosaur skin he had to match up to one on display. He had a great time solving the mystery and even remembered which dinosaur it ended up being. Last year's trip was wonderful. We walked right in,
Comments
I am an American expat married to my British husband. I was struck by what you wrote:
"before I am forever changed by this experience"
Isn't this the point of living in a different country and experiencing a different culture?
I used to feel as you do but I overcame my ingrained cultural xenophobia,opened my mind and have grown to love the UK.
Life is what you make it whether in the US or UK.
All the best with your forthcoming move.
Suz