The Ridgeback Review: When September Ends

Living abroad for a finite amount of time lends itself to a lifestyle in which it helps--when you are feeling far away--to mark dates and events to anticipate. It kind of keeps you going when you need a boost.

But, I try very hard--I mean, I really make a conscious effort--to not always count toward things that have to do with leaving my current expat location or coming home to visit.

And don't get me wrong, I love the expat experience. The things Nate, Kyle and I have done and seen and the places we've traveled are awesome. I mean, a 21 month old with passport stamps like China, US, Vietnam, Japan (ok, that was a layover), Bali (ok, that was in utero) and Germany, how can I really feel blue!?

I do have moments where I miss home so much that I can't see straight. I have learned to acknowledge these moments and move on. No biggie. It's alright to cry.

When I came across the cards from my bachelorette party with everyone's favorite memories, I had a good cry on the edge of the bathtub and moved on. When I saw Jessica's girls on skype and they look like different people and have grown an inch, I swallowed hard and smiled. When my family emailed me the video of their drive past my lonely tree on the way to the cottage--well--that one was worth a good sob in Kyle's arms, actually.

I treat missing home like a mosquito bite: Don't itch it. Ignore it until the sting goes away. But sometimes you brush against it and it stops you in your tracks.

So I have lots of countdowns to inspire me to focus on all the good stuff. Like:

XX weeks until we move into the Königstein house and make it our home
XX weeks until we start our European travels (Italy, Spain, Greece...yes, please!)
XX weeks until we come to the States for a summer visit
XX weeks until Nathan turns two
XX weeks until College Football starts
XX weeks until Opening Day (right around the corner now!)
XX weeks until Christmas

Of course, the key is to keep the list interesting, adding new things as older ones pass. Events recently retired from the list include the number of days until we leave Korea and relocate to Germany; and--very exciting--the number of days until Natey and I get to see the Bupp and Crockett extended families on an unexpected March Madness visit to Michigan.

Kyle and I learned we have something new to add to my list of things to count down:

XX days until the arrival of Baby C, Junior. Nathan is going to be a big brother!

True story.