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Can’t believe we are at this point. On July 15, we are two years into our three year commitment in Goes, Netherlands. The province of Zeeland has treated us well, and the Zeelanders have guided us by answering our many questions. Many locals have contributed to any success we have here. 

We have moved once, traded cars once, become very familiar with the train system and biking, learned to survive without Air Conditioning (notice how I capitalize this important modern convenience), tried most local restaurants, visited 9 other countries, and met many special people. 

Last year at this time, life in the Netherlands still seemed like a special adventure. I tried to soak in every day, marveling at the architecture, language and culture. I had a mental list of foods I wanted to try or places I wanted to experience. It all seemed new and exciting. I loved it!

At two years in, it feels more like a blessed, every day, normal life. Still special, but more settled. My routine is set. Every week I meet with a friend or two. Dutch language classes are a focus.  I enjoy cooking supper. I don’t necessarily notice the wonderful buildings around me anymore, or the unique habits Dutch people have, or the food I haven’t tried yet. I just live life. 

I just had a revelation. Up until just now, I lamented the fact that I don’t necessarily notice all the special things around me anymore. I never wanted to get to the point where I took living abroad for granted. But as I was typing the paragraph just before, I realized that I am exactly where I wanted to be at this point. 

When I moved to Goes two years ago, I wanted to build a life here. I wanted to fit in. I wanted this to feel like a home.  There have been ups and downs in the process, but I feel like Jeremy and I have been slowly accomplishing those goals. We no longer feel like we are on vacation every day. In the midst of the many adjustments, some settling in has occurred. And that is a blessing for us! I am so thankful for our settled life here!

The Final Year

First off, I have to say that the “one year” we have left is approximate. Jeremy’s work contract is for three years in Goes, but his job might require a slight change in that timeline. We have both agreed that we are fine with any changes that might be necessary. 

So what is to come during this last year? More of the same! Enjoying what we have been given in the Netherlands. Loving the people around us. Seeing a few more new places. 

Jeremy and coworkers are already starting to talk about how to set the company up for success in his eventual absence. They know that adjustments need to be made and roles need to be evaluated, so the conversations begin. But they don’t look forward to Jeremy leaving. 

For me, I hope to volunteer somewhere in Goes. I want to practice the Dutch conversation I have learned and help my community at the same time. We will see where I land. 

Thank You

As usual, I want to thank all of you who have taken an interest in our lives abroad. I so appreciate those who read my updates and take time to ask us about our recent events when we are in Iowa. I also appreciate those who have supported my kids while their parents live in Europe. It makes being away just a bit easier for this mama. 🙂