Expat Blues

It’s a real thing guys. While you’re sitting at home or maybe in a classroom at school wishing for a life of travels-it’s not always fun and games. Yes, Derik and I have had an AMAZING travel experience and have loved every moment together (difficult and easy).

There are down moments. After living abroad for almost two years without familiar company coming to visit or us going to visit them, it gets difficult. Especially when friendships come and go so quickly on our little island. This last week I was feeling particularly down (could it also be due to the fact it was the week before vacation-that week is always killer), and couldn’t get my act together over anything. But instead of dwelling in the sadness of my situation (I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have a good cry, but EVERY girl needs one of those every once and a while right?), I decided to cheer myself up a bit.

How to Kick the Expat Blues (girls only)

1. Throw on a fancy dress (wear it around the house all day). I don’t know why, but there’s something about throwing on a dress for no particular reason. Not only does it make you feel good, but…well ok that’s pretty much the only reason. I always love it when D comes home and gives me that quizzical look that says, “What am I missing?”

2. Send an encouraging/thinking-of-you note to your best buddies from home. When feeling down and out, I love showering others with love. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy, and I know I’m lightening up someone else’s day. Who doesn’t love a personalized note? Even if it is just a viral one?

3. Watch an old favorite movie or TV show. Confession-I love FRIENDS. Sure I love friendships, but I’m talking about F.R.I.E.N.D.S the TV show. Ask Lisette, she knows all about it. My college roommate and I were pretty much addicted to the show and would watch it when we had a bad day or were stressed about school. It’s still my habitual ‘feel good’ show of choice. When you’ve found something that keeps you laughing even after the 100th time of watching the same episode, you have a keeper.

4. Clean your house. I actually do a good deep clean when I’m sad, mad, depressed, or stressed. Nothing like working out all those negative feelings, and what do you have to show for it? A sparkly house! I always feel a sense of accomplishment when my house looks spotless and smells like cleaning supplies. Heaven-like.

5. Go workout. If I need to get some happy, positive, endorphins flowing through my body real quick, I hit the gym. Yes this is the same gym that I forgot to wear my uniform in and where the treadmill (s) kept shocking me. I like to run a couple of miles and then do a long stretch session.

6. Drink a glass of wine or the whole bottle. Yes, it’s no small secret that I love wine. After upgrading to ‘Big Joe’ I love it even more (Derik has a matching glass lovingly named ‘Big Bertha’). Bonus points if you can guess that TV show. After a stressful day, a glass of wine is just what I need. I have no color preference – I love them ALL.

What do you do to beat your Expat Blues?