Acclimation

    As I have chronicled, living in a foreign country is challenging – language, rules, cultural norms, but I noticed a shift in the early part of December, so four months in. That was the point when I think I was getting really adjusted. If we were planning on staying longer, that would have been the point I could have taken on language classes without feeling entirely overwhelmed. I could have made more concerted efforts in developing friendships for myself and the kids, I would have tried harder to really fit into the neighborhood. Before that it was very much survival. Since we arrived I have thought about surviving vs. thriving and how my goal has been to thrive. There have been many moments when I have stopped and thought to myself- “this is surviving” and many moments when I have thought “this is thriving.” But if the goal were to really live here long term, four months was my acclimating period.

    Now that it is February, and about 3 weeks past the writing of the first paragraph, I look back on what I just wrote and wonder how that would have worked out in that alternate universe in which we live in Switzerland. (For what reason, I don't know.) Because we have been sooo insulated- with illness and the weather and the school holiday- it has been us in our house and that's about it.  Being on the tail end of this adventure, I think I simply haven't seen the motivation to make more effort. Especially when the effort would have to come dominantly from me, as Kenny has been swamped with tests and a huge project. I hope I don't sound as though I am complaining - being home and isolated HAS been difficult at times, but also good.

   So we ARE on the tail end of this adventure- less than 2 weeks to go. And social plans are going in the calendar. I'm working on arranging for pre- school for the remainder of the year for Jackson.  We are certainly looking forward to our return to Illinois.  It is so pleasant, and comforting to be returning where we are known and where we know family and friends and even how to live- the cultural norms etc. So looking forward to seeing some of you soon!  (Really, would love to see all of you, but realize that may not be realistic.)