England1971

Hi again...

Well after getting back via the QM2 and starting to drive again in December, I don't know what made me stay away in the USA for so long. I love being back.

I have just managed to get a job, starting in a week's time, it has taken me that long to get a job. I didn't realise just how bad the economy was, and thought I can get a job, no worries. I had to apply for Jobseekers Allowance for the first time in my life and managed to get that in January. So at least I am getting £65 a week. Not much, but at least something.

My pooch is getting fat!! My parents absolutely adore him and he is happy. He finally had his teeth removed which I was offered to go on a Payment Plan in Ohio just before he left but couldnt afford it. The Vet I chose over here actually lets me pay weekly!!! (you would never get that abroad!).

But all in all, I am happy to be home. Love the food, the pub and just hanging out with friends. I still have a slight American accent and still stay restroom and trash but I don't have a problem with the driving now!!!

Much love to everyone.

bandrui

Glad to hear about the driving. That's one of my big worries

Sarah

Ahh Kent sounds wonderful. Think I'd swap my basement apartment in NY for somewhere, anywhere in Kent in the blink of an eye.

DeadVim

Anywhere?

charleygirl

great to hear another happy ending! I have family in Hythe and Folkestone, love that area.

Derrygal

Glad you're settling in and have finally found a job. Just wondering - how long were you in the US and what part of Ohio did you live in?

quoll

Good to hear that things are working for you too! It's good that you have managed to find a job at last!!!

sallysimmons

Thanks for the update - glad you're doing so well!

England1971

I was in the US for a total of 9.5 years. 7 years in Santa Rosa, California (Northern Cali) and then I was in Salem, Ohio for the last 2.5 years and really didn't like it there at all. I am not really a snow bunny so I found it quite hard to deal with the snow for 3 months out of the year (when it was bad). I prefer the sunshine and I know being back in England I won't get much sun, but now I get alot more holidays so I can go somewhere warm for 2 weeks!!

Derrygal

Yes the snow here can really get to you - we had over a foot last Friday and it's mid March!! It's supposed to warm up later this week - just in time for St Patrick's Day!! I hate the winters here, but I love spring, summer and most of all fall.

sallysimmons

I hate winter but I hate summer more. It just gets unbearable and I don't do heat well. I do love Spring and Fall here. I don't know if anywhere is better in Fall than New England.

bandrui

Yes, Sally, I used to be a sun worshipper. Now I am more of a shade worshipper . From my short time in Boston I agree with you about the Fall (but we had better get used to saying Autumn). I have a Quebecoise friend who goes back East every fall just to experience the colours.

Sarah

I'm with you on that, I'm dreading another NYC summer this year, not looking forward to living in a convection oven.

sfcelt

We've been back since Nov and have to say, feel alive again! I've had some days of aching for the sun and the clear skies but nothing that I would sacrifice seeing my folks when I need to and having my crazy nieces and nephews around us... the things that make a difference!

bandrui

That's what we like to hear