I'm officially back in the US for my first visit to my parents house in 9 months... and I can't wait to get back to England! I'm already frustrated by the lack of public transport, the way people pronounce the word 'watch' and the fact that even the crap TV is well and truly crap.

Don't get me started on the fact that my parents are driving me absolutely up the wall. It's tough being back in the same house, and giving up my independence to do it.

Still, I'm really glad I came back. It's like the decision has finally been made. I'm better off in the UK.

It's been oddly jarring to be back after so long- hearing accents that sound completely weird to me because I haven't heard them in ages (a bloke from Boston on the TV scared the crap out of me - I couldn't place his accent at all!)

Oddly enough, I haven't got as many food related complaints- most things I've eaten have been delicious, but then again, I am eating at home mostly.

Everything seems bigger though- unwrapped a burger this afternoon and nearly dropped it in shock. It was massive! Mum swears up and down that it's the same size it's always been, but I was full for ages afterwards.

It doesn't feel like I've ben away that long, but everything seems slightly different- like I'm seeing it through a lens or something. I don't bother constantly comparing it to the UK anymore, because thankfully I'm going back there at the end of the month, but it's strange how disconnected I feel from things I used to cling to over here (like BBC America...).

I'd better get used to it though- yearly visits back the states are mandatory for my family now

.............*waves*................

I love reading your posts. It always cheers me up.

Hey tel8,

So happy things workd out for you! Good reading your post

Thanks for the update, that's a great perspective into how returnees do upon going back to their adopted country.

I worry how my kids will do, they are so American. I think being British is an innate thing inside us. You either are or you're not. I always have been despite 21 years away. I'm on countdown to 2016 when I'm planning to go back for good.

Great update. Don't eat too many of those massive burgers.

Great update. Hope you enjoy the time with your family.

great update. So glad you feel settled in the UK.

Ah well, enjoy the holiday!! I guess it's good to know that you've made the right decision for you! Far better than going back and being torn apart by the angst of what you are giving up! Don't have too many big burgers!

I know it isnt quite the same but I felt the same way when I went down to my hometown (Geelong) from Brisbane, driving in was like going into a different alien world. It depressed me when I lived there and felt the same when I visited. It all looked temporary and grubby.

Awww, thank you Rebeccajo! How are things going? I need to catch up with you guys! I'm still in the US at the moment, but heading back to London in two days

I agree. When my mum came to visit me in London she complained non-stop about it: everything was too small, to cramped, to hot/cold, not enough, too expensive and so on and on and ON. I think she was born American Hopefully your kids will enjoy being in the UK as a chance to be somewhere different if not as returning 'home'.

Thanks guys! Heehee- I've been scarfing down those burgers quite happily in fact- I have to admit, a good burger is one thing the US does quite well

Yeah, it just makes me feel more confident now that I know I made the right decision.

It's odd isn't it? I guess it's one of those things that you really notice when you find the right place for you.

Have a safe flight "home". Enjoy your burgers LOL

I've been back a month now after 32 years in Arizona. And I have to say I absolutely love it! People are so friendly and down-to-earth. Months ago, before I left Arizona, I would read posts on here trying to make my mind up about coming back, and I think it was Tel8 that wrote something that really resonated in me...and then miraculously the path back to Britain really opened up for me...and here I am....!!!! It just feels 'right' to be back!!!

so happy you are enjoying your return after living in the US for so long. Whofan63 also returned from AZ and she is also enjoying herself so good to know that you made the right decision.