Ups and Downs

7 March, 2010
It’s another bright and clear morning here in Indiana. The USA (at least here around Fort Wayne) seems to be rolling out the archetype of March weather for our return: crisp, clear, frosty nights with stars and moon; bright, warm, and unusually dry days. Surely it will rain soon!
Last week we were still in Aberdeen, receiving a heart-warming send-off from almost all of our friends from both Stockethill and Newhills. This morning I’m typing in my borrowed studio-loft apartment, watching the deer graze on the edge of the wood and contemplating the startling abruptness of today’s transportation technology.
A part of what I hope to do with this blog is chart a bit of the ups and downs of re-entry after 5 years living outside the USA. So far, I’m missing my friends in Scotland the most, followed by the castles, coastline, and decent curry restaurants. I’m missing the convenience of mobile phone technology in Europe (!) after some frustrating battles getting our (sort of) pay-as-you-go phone plan with T-Mobile up and running. I’m also missing the compactness of Aberdeen – it takes what seems forever to get anywhere in Fort Wayne. First, everything is spread out. Second, every stinking junction has a stoplight.
On the other hand… Let’s hear it for tumble dryers! One can start and finish laundry not just in the same day, but before leaving for work in the morning! And the laundry gets completely dry!
We’re currently enjoying some great reunion time with Amy’s family. Despite missing our friends and the general overall coolness of Scotland (sorry, USA, but Scotland just by being there will always be way cooler than you), reconnecting with our family here is a great joy.
Andrew