Walking these roads, I sometimes feel like a sell-out. We are safely removed from urban life, quiet and protected on this Friday morning. I had hoped we’d be braver, move our brood into the hood, where children still play football in the middle of busy roads, but here we are.
Read moreGift-Giving for the Far Away Family
Christmas sneaks up on me every time. I don't know how that happens; it's not like it's a fixed date on the calendar or anything. But somehow I still miss it, put things off, always thinking this will be the year I plan ahead, yet I never do.
At some point in November I get the email from the parents asking what they can do for us for Christmas. This proves to be a bit of a conundrum as we no longer live across town; we live across an ocean. Shipping rates aren't exactly favourable to any of us and I spend hours racking my brain on gift ideas for my children (and, likewise, for them!) that will be thoughtful and personal, as well as thrifty and expedient.
If you're a fellow expat, or love an expat, or just live too far way from family, here are a few ideas to make Christmas gift-giving (and shipping) not such a pain in the neck.
Read moreWhen it's ok to take a [small] break from motherhood
Exactly one week ago, I was sitting on a large rock in the Mediterranean, feeling the wind whip my hair into a humid frenzy and the hot sun blast my face, more than a bit concerned that two older French gentlemen were waving and wading my way. 24 hours later...
Read moreOn Not Owning a House
Photo by Qusai Akoud on Unsplash
Watching friends buy houses used to make me sick. Not sick as in I disapprove of your life choices, but sick as in nauseous, anxious and a bit fuzzy in the head. As perpetual renters, I would wonder what we did wrong, why we could never get our act together...
Read moreWhat I'm Into {October 2014}
It is no secret October is my favourite month. It is absolutely the most colourful, versatile, cozy and outdoorsy time of the year. October for me is when the world makes sense. It's when Ella was born, and when Matt and I met in Chicago, and where I carry almost all the best memories. Which is why I haven't been here so much... there are more memories to be made.
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