ready to nest

Rusks and tea, just like I used to have in South Africa. Interesting how my "comfort food" reflects the places I've grown familiar with, not just my homeland.

In other news, I'll be saying goodbye to hotel living come Saturday. See pictures of our new place over on the other blog.

how fickle my heart

The moments of melancholy expressed in my last post didn't last long, nor were they as intense as they've been in the past; I sort of expect those feelings now. But I did make a concerted effort to cheer myself up:

The tub here is amazing, and the soap provided by the hotel leads to lavish foam (very, like something you'd expect of a Marilyn Monroe movie). And yes, my rubber duck was there, too. I bought it at Daiso the other day, because I don't cope so well without whimsy.

Later I put the iPod on shuffle and danced around my room, which I hadn't really done since high school. (Even better, I used to buy rolls of bubble wrap and spread it out on the floor, then dance around. Fantastic.)

All in all, I'm happy. And so thankful.

in a swarm of bees

Feeling a little lost and stumbly, like the typical expat in need of a hug - and not just any hug, but the smothering, all-encompassing hold of someone who knows and has known me. You know?

And yet out I go, into the world, thankful for new experiences and a little adventure. I'm getting better at kicking myself out the door, knowing that getting to the party is often the hardest part.

Still, after a quarter century on this planet, you'd think it'd be easier to sink into a sense of belonging, that I'd get over not feeling quite right or good enough. Sometimes I wish I could slap a label on what I am, other than "sensitive." I take refuge and find gratitude in quiet mornings by the pool, long conversations over shared meals, and many cups of strong coffee.

In that way, being here is a lot like being at home. After all, wherever you go, there you are.

genius project

from The Indigo Bunting via Cup of Jo

How excellent would a personalized version of these be? I'd say as a gift for someone else, but let's face it, I'd be making them for myself.

need an update?

Here it is :)