After 320 days—and a lifetime of new experiences-- we are on our way back to Radburn. To say that I am feeling bittersweet is an oversimplification. There are too many emotions all at once.
This year was so much more than I could ever have imagined. I am filled with gratitude for being able to live here. After months of lockdown in New Jersey, we got to live in a vibrant city where every day meant a new adventure. Even mundane activities like grocery shopping and restaurant reservations were new and a little exciting. I gained a new appreciation for Asian cultures and for all we can learn from them.
I am grateful to the wonderful friends we met here. Thank you to our friends in the expat community for welcoming us into your circles and showing us a different way of living. Thank you to our Korean friends for sharing your lives and families with us and making a city on the other side of the world feel like our home.
I’m excited for many things at home. I can’t wait to hug all the people I love, to wake up to the beautiful Radburn parks, to manage the business of my life in English.
My new goal is to find ways to incorporate new adventures into everyday life. It might mean saying “yes” to things I would have said “no” to before. Or taking a class in something new. Or finding all the hidden gems in New Jersey. Maybe I’ll even try being a morning person! (Radical, I know.)
Perhaps the most important takeaway from this year in Korea is how lucky I am to travel through life with Phil. Not everyone has a husband who says, “let’s spend a year in Korea.” His openness to new activities, his ability to laugh when things go wrong, his support in the tough times and his “let’s go out and do something interesting” approach to each day are just a few of the many reasons I love him.
Thank you all for following along on my blog. It has meant so much to me to stay connected with you, to share my experiences, to read your comments. I can’t wait to see you in person!
I looked forward to each of your postings and ended them delighted. And now, I look forward to your return. What a lovely tribute to Phil and your marriage! Such sweetness...
Safe travels!
Heartfelt and heartwarming!! Thank you for being so able to convey the unique beauty and culture of South Korea-a place I never thought of much less knew about and now feel respect and attraction. Safe travels!!!!
I am awestruck by the two of you. I'd be reluctant to venture to a foreign speaking county for a year. Joel on the other hand, would pack his bags tomorrow. Fortunately, my girls do not take after me, in that sense. Can't wait to hear about your explorations.
What a beautiful post. I am in awe of both you and Phil and your sense of adventure. I can't wait to hear your stories and perhaps join you in some new adventures.