Well, we’re back. Returned in a whirlwind trip in November and I’m STILL adjusting. I guess there’s this thing called reverse culture shock and it’s pretty common. I didn’t expect it, tho. I had no problem coming home for a visit and driving on the right for two weeks, but this time it took me more than two months to really feel comfortable. (Plus some luck that there were no other cars on the road when I DID drive on the left!) And that’s not the only thing that’s hard.
Indiana: flat, brown, straight roads, the same stores and restaurants all over, bland American accents. On the other hand, Kim and John are close, Bryan came out for Christmas, and I spent a couple weeks with my parents in January and will be going back in May.
Ireland: green, hilly, winding roads, lovely Irish lilts interspersed with unintelligible West Cork accents, fun phrases like half-seven (7:30), Tuesday week (next Tuesday), and “don’t get your knickers in a twist.” On the other hand, the winters are are gray and rainy and, oh yeah, my family was way too far away.
So . . . we’re in Indiana again, most likely to stay. House sitting for a friend right now. Blaik’s sort of on TDY at the company – does make-work and gets paid while he waits for a permanent position, which aren’t so plentiful right now. Some good interviews but not the right one yet.
I love being with my family, I love seeing old friends, and I enjoyed the snow up to a point (could have skipped the ice storm, tho). But oh do I miss Ireland!
Of Writing and Wandering 