More after this provincial life

Just three months left of our little provincial life in the Netherlands!

A result of two full-time jobs and busy kid schedules, our two years here flew by at (what my kids would say) “ultra mega speed.” I am overwhelmed with feelings (joy/sadness; excitement/stress) as we start to close out this chapter.

We’re being intentional about participating in the remaining tourist traps and seasonal local delights - museums, castles, spring tulips, and summer weekends at the beach. Each bike ride, weekend hike, and neighborhood farm visit is/will be relished. But we're also sad (!) for all that we’re going to miss. Among our lowest feelings is knowing we’ll have to say goodbye to our teachers, friends, and the community we’ve built. A community that’s been integral to our support system abroad.

With leaving comes planning our next chapter, which brings such excitement. How exhilarating it can be to learn about what’s next, enroll in new schools and activities, and envision a fresh start with new friends and new opportunities. And in the throes of planning, enters all the stress of the impending unknown and the weight (physically and mentally) of our entire lives being packed up and shipped across the ocean.

For now, I'm putting aside my emotional whiplash and enjoying the beginnings of Dutch Spring!