Part of me wants to keep my blog upbeat and happy, to reflect and record all of the great adventures and fun times I have, and those only. But if I really want to have a blog that is honest and encompasses completely my adventures abroad, then I need to include the adventure that I'm dealing with every day since I got here.
I'm homesick. Homesick like I never thought I would be. Some days I get through it better then others, but I can only ignore it or push the feelings aside for so long before it hits me again. I miss my parents. I miss my friends. I miss how much I could get accomplished in one day because I knew where to go to do this or find that. I miss driving my car BLEE. I miss Dairy Queen ice cream and Fuzzy Peaches.
It hasn't been easy to get settled here. While I know I'm lucky because I didn't have to worry about finding a place to live when I got here, and I arrived with a good career job, I still have had my own challenges. Getting a debit visa card from HSBC bank here has been a nightmare. Tomorrow will be day 21 and I may finally have it in my hand. Internet access is manageable, as you can buy dongles (mobile sticks) with limited data which is good for daily use. But I miss downloading music and watching my North American tv shows online. I miss being connected constantly on an iPhone to Facebook and Twitter, not only to keep up with my friends, but also things in the world of Hollywood and local news. I was counting on Skype to keep me in touch, but with limited internet I haven't been able to do that.
Don't get me wrong, I am enjoyed seeing the sights of London. I'm also enjoying living at 106 Finchley Road. I think the greatest group of young individuals lives here. Every one is super nice and friendly and I've never felt so comfortable in a house I've shared. Teaching is fun too, and I have one week of experience under my belt so far.
But, those great things don't take away from being vulnerable and easily brought to tears from an email from my mom or friends.
I know that this adventure is a great lifetime experience, and hopefully I'll start to feel settled in time. Plus Christmas isn't too far away and I'll be home for a visit then. I just never thought I was going to feel homesick like I do. It's yet another thing about living in London that I wasn't prepared for I guess.
just take a deep breath and smile, it will get better and better and better... thinking of you and envying you too!
ReplyDeleteYou are amazing and even though you are having the challenges of being homesick, you will realize that after this adventure is over and you are on your next one, you will have skills and talents that no one else could ever match. You Katie, will always be the one who did it, who lived it and we are all so proud of you. Let yourself miss home because it is natural...but don't let anything steal your happiness!!!
ReplyDeleteMiss Gail (words from experience!!!!)