and enjoying every minute! :)
Ryan did an amazing job of scheduling flights so that my trip back to the States was as easy as possible. When I say easy, this includes 33+ hours of travel from the time I left my apartment in Novo (midnight, Monday, Chicago time) until I arrived in Chicago at 10 am Wednesday. My trip consisted of 3 flights, Krasnodar-Moscow, Moscow-London, London-Chicago. I had a 4 hour layover in Moscow and a 9 hour layover in London. Ryan was great, and booked a hotel in London so I was able to sleep for a couple hours and shower. But, regardless of how long it took, it was worth it when I stepped out of O'Hare to a beautiful summer day.
I have had numerous moments where I pause and enjoy the moment. I left the States from Houston, March 7th, and I have not been back to my parent's, Michigan City, since last Thanksgiving. I feel it is appropriate to share the moments I have enjoyed, when in the past I may have taken for granted.
*Driving. It has been over 4 months since I have driven. My parents are actually enjoying the "new" driver in me. I am much more cautious with my driving and my inner rage has been greatly reduced. I credit this change to the fact I am driving my mother's car, which is much larger than my previous car (miss Emma). Also, since I am used to having a driver, I find I have the tendency to talk and forget to continue pushing on the gas peddle, luckily, I continue to remember to steer. :) Oh well, my parents enjoy the lighter lead foot.
*Target. I remember mentioning my displeasure of Russia's lack of Targets. I happily saw a Target semi during our drive home from O'Hare and I made a shopping stop earlier this week.
*Shopping. If Michigan City Lighthouse Mall has an economic boost during the month of July, it is most likely due to me. Luckily and unfortunately, I have to limit my purchases so I do not have too much in my luggage. I find myself buying just as much for Ryan as for myself. :)
*Small town Indiana. I used to complain about the people of Michigan City and small town life. Now, I think it's so refreshing. People are so nice. Checking out at the store, people have a conversation with you. Driving in my parent's subdivision, people smile and wave. Passing homes in the early evening, everyone is sitting outside on their front porches and patios.
*Country music. My roommates (Maire and Jenn) from Indy can affirm my appreciation for country music. After living in Russia, where the only American music I hear is the latest pop songs, it is very nice to listen to country music. I guess it just adds to my small town Indiana surroundings. Ryan should be thankful he is not being subjected to the country music.
*Food. I have missed a few food items, Kashi, vanilla yogurt, cottage cheese and baby carrots, to name a few. It is also very nice to go to a grocery store and see such abundant displays of produce. The amount of selection for every grocery item is also very pleasant.
I think that wraps up some of the major items. I am enjoying time with family. I look forward to spending time with some friends too. Returning to the States has really reaffirmed my understanding of how fortunate Ryan and I are. Ryan, at such an early time in his career, has an amazing opportunity with an incredible company. Living in Russia provides Ryan and I with an opportunity to not only test our abilities to adapt, but to also grow closer as a couple. Our travel experiences have taken us to so many incredible places, with more to come. I am truly blessed and am so thankful for everything I have, and everything I have to come.
