Starting over

I have observed that it usually takes some sort of life changing event to heighten one's awareness of appreciation. Sometimes it is brought on by an unpleasant experience: the loss of a loved one, some sort of tragedy, or an unplanned event. But sometimes not. Occasionally, our choices lead us though unknown doors and for those of us who like to undertake challenges, we willingly accept the consequences. Knowing that persevering through a bit of work and discomfort, the outcome will bring growth. The process takes time and patience and requires steps/stages to elevate to the next levels. Every step is equally important as without one, the next cannot occur. When one of these steps happen, it feels monumental. This is true with just about every endeavor we take on. However, what most of us take for granted on an everyday basis, become huge accomplishments when you are starting over.

As an alien living abroad, I relish these moments of "getting it" and am grateful when they happen as well as to those facilitating the changes. As I chose to completely uproot my life (as I knew it) to start an entirely different one, I knew this was going to be challenging, but I had no idea how appreciative I would be going through the process. All the "little things" become magnified, and when even a small hurdle is jumped, it feels monumental. For this I am thankful and motivated.

One IMPORTANT step is learning the language. At this point, I am by no means am able to articulate my thoughts properly in Flemish, but can now communicate on a VERY BASIC level. With the patience of those listening, I shall progress. It requires a lot of focus and if I am tired I feel completely lost. I know this is all part of the learning process but frankly, sometimes I am impatient.

Today I joined a local bike club for their Sunday training ride. I had met one of the members at the gym and she hospitably invited me to join. Normally this would be NO BIG DEAL, but this was a FIRST. Not only was I a stranger to the group but the only other woman beside my "new friend". Even though my command of the language is quite remedial, I tried to speak Flemish and that's not pretty! Nonetheless, they were all very welcoming and for the first time, I felt like my "old self". Nice people, fun riding: the combination of the socialness of the bike world that I oh-so-miss. I explained to my friend how my weekends used to be filed riding and socializing with my friends who all were/are training for various events. I really miss that. So riding with this group gave me hope!
Unfortunately the season here is coming to an end and road riding will be far and few soon. Nonetheless, next season, I now have a new group to ride with and the doors are starting to open.

The same with my work. A couple weeks ago, I was given 2 classes to teach at the local gym. This small event was a milestone!! I am getting exposure, starting to get a following and intend to build a clientele. Once again starting over but fortunately when you start at the bottom, the only direction is up! I am confident my business will grow and with everything else it's all about taking steps and being patient.

In addition to all this, Mr X is working his a** off finishing building our house. He has been laboring for a year on this endeavor. The man is a true Flandrien as he does this after working a full day when he rather be on his bike or relaxing. We have a 2 week deadline now and it's no rest for either of us as we HAVE to be out of the apartment by Oct 31. It's a bit overwhelming but at least there is light at the end of this tunnel as well.

So on we go, all in life anew. Husband, children, home, language, career, friends, terrain, and climate! Ha ha ha! Apparently when it rains it pours..........