As I sit here in America with anticipation of New Year’s Eve, I can’t help but think about this past year but also returning to Holland and putting into place resolutions that come with the tradition of this celebration.
This past year has been so tumultuous for my family. It was a year ago that my husband and I took a trip to Europe that would change our lives. Within weeks of the interview for a new job, we were being offered a chance for an exciting new chapter in our lives. So many things had to be considered. This decision was not only about a job, it was about our family and totally uprooting our lives. Well-meaning friends that were in the know, were so excited for us and kept prodding… do it, do it, just do it! I finally had to “explain” to one friend, that this was not a European vacation, it was my life!
Real life did move on. The house was sold “Thank God!” and a new place to live was found in The Netherlands. We said goodbye to one of the best schools in America and moved onto an amazing International school and all that entails. Belongings were crated up and shipped across the ocean with only a china cabinet getting a little damaged in the move. And lifelong friends and family gathered to say good bye and wish us the best of luck. They only had one request… find all the best places so when they come over to visit I would know where to take them.
So with that task in mind, that has become part of my resolution. Love God, Be Brave and Step out the door and go have fun!
So to all my friends and family.. I love you! Out with the Oud ~ In with the Nieuw! Happy New Year!!
Hi - My husband's company has just asked him to work in Amsterdam for two years. Like you, everyone is saying, do it, go for it, and that is my first instinct, but there is so much to think about. Not least of which is getting my 11 year old beagle over there and finding housing that will take him! I just started reading your blog and look forward to reading the rest!
ReplyDeleteHI! It is a huge decision but one I'm so glad I made!! There is a huge international community over here to help you with all of your questions. Amsterdam is by far one of my favorite cities. Very very different but just oozing with charm. Not sure if you've read about my dogs yet but so happy I brought them with me. Lisa
ReplyDeleteHi - Thanks for the reply! I did read about your dogs and so sorry you lost one after you moved. But goodness that little puppy is darling! Any suggestions on relocation companies that can help with housing? The more I read, including your blog, the more I want to come! Kirsten
ReplyDeleteHi Kirsten,
DeleteSadly we've lost both of our dogs we brought with us but we knew that would come since they were both older. Our lab is a year old and we now have a new puppy. Dirk is an English Mastiff. He is adorable! He's almost as big as Bear.
The relocation company we used was Crown. I'm pretty sure it was assigned to us by our company. They did a fabulous job and took very good care of our belongings. Can't wait to hear if you make the move. Best of luck in your decisions. Lisa
We are coming for our discovery trip at the end of this month and if all goes well we will be moving mid-August! During our discovery trip we'll be looking for a furnished apartment. I am getting very excited! I just looked and saw that the sun doesn't set until 10:00pm in June - that's awesome!
ReplyDeleteYea! And.. it's 10:05PM and it's still light. Not sunny but not dark either. :)
DeleteYou have inspired me to start a blog of my own!
ReplyDeletehttp://adamnamericaninamsterdam.blogspot.com/
Yea! Good for you! Have fun!! Hippopotamus :)
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