One year today

And just like that, we’ve been in South Africa for 12 whole months.

Today some indulgence is required because this post will be more philosophical than usual; anniversaries do that to me.

Looking back over the past year, I see joy and sadness. I see frustration, contentment, trepidation, and excitement. I see achievements and failure. In short, I see a life taking shape and solidifying, and with each passing week, this place is becoming home.

The first few months of our time back in South Africa disappeared in a haze of activity. We battled with bureaucracy at all levels, we bought cars, opened bank accounts, took occupation of our house, did renovations, tried to maintain our professions, and so much more. We were so busy that we barely had time to breath, much less take time to just come to terms with the enormity of our move.

Now, as I write, I can take stock and share a few home truths:

• It’s been exhausting – emotionally and physically
• It’s been challenging and rewarding in equal measure
• It’s been scary, but inwardly fortifying
• It’s been humbling
• It’s been fun (and funny!)
• It’s been mind-numbingly annoying and gratifying at the same time
• It’s been lonely in the quiet hours

The list could go on almost endlessly, but here’s the reality: moving countries when you’re 60+ isn’t the same as doing it when you’re 30+, and we (particularly I) underestimated just how tough this would be. Changing countries somehow compresses the human experience. It strips away the invisible scaffolding you didn’t even realise was holding you up, and it takes time to re-erect that scaffolding and make it permanent.

Every reason we had for relocating is as valid today as it was when we made the decision to move, it’s just taken me a little longer to fully acclimatise to being in this place at this time, but I’m getting there.

I love our home, and our old and new friends. It’s wonderful being closer to loved family members, and being more engaged in their lives (and having them in ours). I love Africa and her people – the laughter, the music, the spirit. I’ve made peace with many of the things that frustrate me, and I’m learning to cut myself some slack and give it time.

Most of all, I love sharing this adventure with my gorgeous man. So – happy ZAversary to us!! And to you, dear reader – thanks for being on this journey with us.

Until next time, sala kahle!