December 18, 2005
Christmas Overseas
Being overseas for the first time at Christmas has been an adjustment for me. I think it would have been a lot harder for me if I hadn’t made arrangements to see loved ones. Between having family visiting and my trip back home in a little over a week I don’t feel too isolated.
I remember when the move to Scotland was first in the works, Christmas plans came up very early on. I think it was in the aftermath of last year’s Christmas. One of the big things about Christmas for me was spending a bit of time with my Mom. That combine with wanting to take some pressure off of her in hosting led to an invite to visit for Christmas. I was even able to fly her over as my gift.
Having her here has certainly added to the feel of it being Christmas. I’m sure Trouble and I could have managed something enjoyable but this has more of the traditional feel of Christmas for all that I’m in a foreign country. Even the bit where I’m going to church to make my Mom happy.
After Christmas I fly back to Edmonton on the heels of my Mom’s departure. By New Year’s eve or there abouts I’ll be catching up with friends. It really isn’t very different than other years. Everyone goes their own way to be with their own families for Christmas and then reconnects by the New Year. I’ll be able to end off the Holiday season in very much the same fashion as I would any other year.
I know that next year is going to be very different. The trans-atlantic voyages for the holidays are not something that I can really pull off on a yearly basis. This year, as my first overseas is sort of a transition. I’ve been able to take in the lack of snow, the difference in holiday foods as well as the different sights and smells. Next year will be the adjustment of not having family and old friends around to share the season with.
Posted by Bluerevolutionist at December 18, 2005 11:45 AM
Comments
Even the bit where I’m going to church to make my Mom happy.
Shh... don't let her hear you say that!
Posted by: Anna at December 19, 2005 10:43 AM