So 3 weeks from today we’ll be on an airplane to the Netherlands. I think it was about 4 months ago that this crazy idea began to germinate. We’ve done so much to prepare and most of the big items are done. When I agreed to this idea of being expats, I told my husband that I am happy to go and that I wanted to do everything I could beforehand to enjoy all the goodness that surrounds me. The crazy thing is I think I’ve packed more excitement into the past 4 months than I have in years. I’m thankful for this amazing gift of appreciation and time and awareness and for my supportive family and friends. I’m awestruck to say the least!!

When I started this blog 100+ days ago and called it: Here I Am, it was to commit to being fully present and living life in the moment. I like this feeling. I feel fulfilled and wish everyone the same joy. Remind me of this if I ever falter.

Being here and being the Fourth of July and attending the USA gymnastics Olympic trials this week and playing outside makes me aware of how much I love being an American. I love the flag, our patriotism, our national anthem, even our money. I’m aware that I will miss our American Holidays even though I look forward to the European ones. I’m excited and accept the changes that are to come and know this is an amazing opportunity yet I’m aware of the costs even though I know I’m coming back one day. Ying and yang. It’s all good.

The kids and I took all the coins we’ve been saving around the house and brought them to the Coinstar machine to be sorted and counted. We had over $200 in random coins! It was fun for them to feed the machine and watch the ticker count away. They were happy because they got to divide up the proceeds.

So with that, I hope you celebrated with BBQs and watermelon, friendship and sparklers, fireworks and dessert and had an amazing day!

P.S. I’m taking a fitness vacation over the next few days and may not have internet access, so will catch up again as I can. xo