This is my new little zippy European (actually it’s Korean, but it’s small and manual transmission so it fits right in here) car. It has a tortoise-shell steering wheel and I just think it feels ever so very European. If it was convertible, I’d wear silly scarves and look like I was out of an early 1060s movie. Note the mountain in the background (and Mufasa in the back seat).
As for where I am with this whole moving to Europe alone thing… I am ready for friends. For community. To create a life here. I’m not sure how to find people who have a boat so I can waterski and who can accompany me on the piano and who are single and around 40 and hot, single and kind. I don’t want all of that from the same person. The hot, kind, around 40 and single part, yes. I can find a waterski boat and a jazz pianist elsewhere, though.
It’s strange to live in a culture that so values communities (especially on Sunday — nothing is open and there’s nothing to do and it’s clear most people are at gatherings of some sort) and be so alone. It’s good I’m busy unpacking and working, but I am able now to look ahead to a time when I will want friends and family and community here. Something new to create. Adventure abounds.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
An assignment for you:
What kinds of friends do you want while you are in Europe? Define and you shall have. I am serious, I want to know.
Bec,
The shoes are oh-so-Italian! And the cute little car…what is it? And the frescoes, no less! I still can’t quite believe you live where all those pictures are, the mist rising from the lake, the flowers in the sun. WOW! The community will come. With time, I’m sure. Is there any sort of expat community there? Not that you want to meet so many Americans, necessarily, but just curious.
I miss you!!!!
Hi Rebecca,
Wow, it’s been a while since I checked in with your blog and it’s amazing to see what you’ve been up to – your new life. I think you are so brave and wonderful to move to Europe on your own. It all seems so romantic and exciting. I know that the reality is often very lonely and it takes time to settle in and make friends, as it has for me here in San Francisco. Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures and experiences. Can’t wait to watch it all unravel. Love to you.