You'll never guess where I'm writing this. Well, actually you probably will. I'm in Texas! I was supposed to fly home on August 8th and stay for three weeks. But as the birth of my first grand baby approached, the possibility of not being here for the birth took over my thoughts. All signs point to this baby coming early and I had to get here.
So after changing my flights and getting off work early, I flew from London to Dublin to Chicago to Austin. It was a long travel day made much better by an upgrade from Aer Lingus. My first eight hours in first class has completely spoiled me. How will I ever go back to economy? #firstworldproblems
Because no one should have their Mother in Law move in for five weeks, I'm staying in a little apartment just around the corner from Jessica and Johnny. Close enough that I can walk over but far enough that they have plenty of space. I get to stay for five whole weeks and I couldn't be more thrilled. Matt will be joining me in a few weeks.
Jessica is doing great considering she is in her last few weeks of pregnancy. She looks fantastic and is in good spirits (mostly). I was so worried that I wouldn't get to see her pregnant and feel the baby move inside her. I can't keep my hands off of her belly. He's a big active boy and it's absolute joy to be a part of this.
I was able to join her at her latest appointment and I love her doctor. Things are progressing along and we hope to meet little Michael within the next week or so. We are all ready.
In the mean time, we're trying to stay busy and distracted. In one 24 hour period I went to Target twice and Walmart once. Reverse culture shock is a real thing. I just walk up and down the wide grocery aisles in awe. And I drove a car for the first time in years. It's been over 100 degrees every day since I've arrived. I also see some pool time in my future.
I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with family and friends. I'm also looking forward to more blogging time. I'm hoping to get caught up a bit. I'll try to get out and show you a little bit of Texas on my Instagram feed.
It feels good to be in Texas and it feels wonderful to be with Jessica. I'm going to be a grandma!
These photos were all taken in the gardens of the Grim's Dyke Hotel just outside of London. In my next post I'll tell you all about my Afternoon Tea and weekend getaway at this beautiful country house.
Have you experienced reverse culture shock?
