Day 14: Transitioning

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In two weeks and a day (due to the time change), we’ll be living in Holland. A big change for us as we’ve never lived overseas. And we’re excited and nervous and overwhelmed and anxious and want to go and wish we could stay. Yin and yang, all mixed together.

So much to do and today was the day to push through as many tasks as possible so that I can play freely tomorrow! I got several errands done since I was awake and out of bed by 5:30 am! C went on a playdate all day and the other two are off at camp. I arranged for a (mini) bus to pick us up from the airport and began to discuss furniture rental plans for the new place. I returned stuff all over town and shopped for our going away party this weekend. Should be fun!

C had a playdate at Adventure Land in Berkeley, which was a magical place for kids to build forts with real hammers, saws, nails and wood, in a dusty playing field with recycled materials. They didn’t want to leave!

It felt like his birthday today, because his friend came over after the play date to watch a movie and rest before they headed out to a night time game of mini-golf. On C’s bucket list was to play at night with all the lights and it being dark. We sure had fun and he won a free game for hitting the little ball in the tiniest of holes at the end. He was so proud of his effort and very happy.

And on a different note, I felt a bit sad today for a couple moments. Like when I went to buy milk and the expiration date was past the date that we move. And when I was shopping at Costco, seeing the same faces I’ve seen for 10+ years, and enjoying the comforts of big shopping, I kept feeling that it’s going to be different. And driving by our church and really missing it and the people. Just a couple tears for 15 seconds – just feeling the transition and ok with it but feeling the separation and change. It’s what we want but it’s still an a adjustment. But, its all good…

Are we there yet?!?!?

9May2012

Day 77: Acceptance

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The trees in front of our yard have changed and are filled with leaves and light. I love this view in the morning, and to think they were just bare a couple months ago. I like this change.

Now that we actually have committed to a house in Amstelveen, it feels more real, like now we’re really going. Not that we weren’t going before, but there was a mental shift and awareness that was good and a little uncomfortable. I guess that’s how it goes with any major change. There are layers, right? There was a news article written talking about the new offices in Holland – another layer. And the tax adviser that was hired, as well as the documents stating my husband’s new role and position in Europe – more layers of realness. I think we’re really moving. I know, I’m a little slow…even though I know, I really know.

Maybe that’s why I fill my days to the brim and over the top – so I don’t really have to think about the change. Hmm. There’s a lot to think about and do in just 77 days!!

The good news is that the kids are starting to internalize the change and are preparing on their own too, as evidenced by their conversation and artwork. Like they started arguing over which room they each were going to get and whether they would share or not and get bunk beds. Little C has been the most apprehensive, so seeing his art creation and hearing the story about how he was going to put this up in his room now and bring it with him to the new house made my eyes well up, but at least he didn’t see. I’m so proud of him and happy that he’s accepting the journey.

And my mini-me, I better remember to be a good role model. She likes to mimic me. So this week I’m working on a few things to be a better role model. I feel her watching and learning and growing up. We even went and got haircuts together at my salon today. I love her and all that she is becoming… just slow down time, please?

17Apr2012

Day 99 – Do you have your glasses on?

Posted in Uncategorized by adrianahartley

Everyone should see the world through Change Glasses, like mine. Not that everyone should see the same thing I see, but I think everyone should think about their own life changing and be aware of what they have. I kinda feel like I’ve been given a gift to appreciate my current life. Shouldn’t we all receive that gift? And all of a sudden, I’m not “busy” anymore. And my old friends are calling and we’re taking time to connect and chat and making plans to see each other. This is so cool!! I feel like this experience of choosing to move has made me take an inventory of all that is important to me – who I love, what I love, where I love and to make time for these things and people vs. continuing with the daily grind. I like this.

Sometimes we don’t get a chance to choose a life change such as when someone dies or gets sick to become aware. But what happens when you do get to choose to make a life change, whether it be small or big? Great things can happen, especially if you let go of fear.

What are you doing today? Are you happy there? If so, smile and enjoy the moment. If not, still try to see the good where you are and dream of how you’re going to make it better and DO IT! Right, Yaya? Namaste.