One of the most thrilling things about being in Europe is that there is usually history around every corner. I knew this to be true about Spain and France, and hoped it would be the case in England. To my great delight, it is! Just a few nights ago, I did a bit of sightseeing … More Accidental Sightseeing
I can’t recall the moment I made the decision to move abroad. It might sound cliche, but I just sort of knew that it was what I needed. I have spent lots of time abroad in the past, spending various summers in Spain and other countries on the continent. But the one thing I hadn’t … More Things I’ve Learned Since Moving to London
Ever since I decided that moving to England was a viable direction in which to take myself, I have been brushing up on various aspects of “being British.” While I recognize (recognise!) a lot of spelling differences and slang thanks to books and television, I am not familiar with using them. At the suggestion of my … More Learning Lingo
There’s a moment when, driving over the Grapevine on the serpentine 5, you feel hurtled into Central California. The road slants downhill, curving around the mountain, and suddenly there is a break in the scenery. The plain brown range disappears, and you are overlooking the great valley. From that viewpoint it doesn’t look like much (the … More Coming Home
My high school backpack is ratty. The seams are worn, but not yet pulled, and the zippers get stuck. No matter how many times I empty it out, there is still sand in the bottom from trips to the beach in Valencia. The Jansport logo is faded, but relatively legible. The navy fabric is dull … More Becoming an Expat
An American Astray 