One Month

One month in already and it simultaneously feels like it's been months since we were in Belgium and that we just got here. We have been to seven countries, seventeen cities / towns, three currencies and eight languages. We have eaten roughly four pounds of chocolate, an entire bakery of croissants and baguettes, a pig in the form of various cured meats, one hamburger each and approximately an acre of potatoes, in a wide variety of forms and flavors (early on, dipped in mayonnaise). We have made mental, and now literal notes, as to how we would have done some things differently. We would have packed lighter, in smaller packs. I should have heeded my brilliant friend, Renee's, advice and only packed the very bare essentials and purchased as needed along the way. I have already ditched a pair of pants, my face wash and between us, three books (that we both read within the first ten days). I tried to leave a fourth book on the train today, and a spry young thing chased after me and let me know that I had forgotten it. I'll try and ditch it elsewhere.

We are finding that Airbnb's are the most affordable way to go in Europe. They are significantly more affordable than hostels. We learned that we are being reviewed, just as we review them. Currently we have stellar ratings. Most have provided a washing machine, with detergent; shampoo, body gel, towels, sheets and coffee (either instant or Keurig). Part of our plan was to take advantage of the book exchanges at hostels so that we were never empty handed. I am almost embarrassed to say that because we have yet to encounter a book exchange I have been reading from the kindle reader app on my phone. I am a diehard lover of the written novel. I love the smell of books. I love bending the binding. I love folding the corner to remind me that there was something delicious on this page. I have one book left that I am coveting, reading slowly so as to not part. It brings me joy everytime I see it in my pack, Jane Eyre, my first Bronte!

Travel changes all of us. From my perspective, you can not travel and not be challenged to review your way of life. Ever so slightly you begin to view your routine, the things you eat and drink, how you sound when you talk, the things you hold tightly to (beliefs, job, house, status, etc.) differently. I for one feel my heart become more full. The world feels smaller, friendlier, safer, tastier and brighter. I am reminded that I am just a particle on this planet and I need to stay open to learning from differences rather than judging or hastily assuming that my way is best.

Travel changes relationships. In our case it strengthens. We laugh often. We listen more and bicker less. We are more supportive and forgiving. We hold hand more often and even have perfected "the train kiss". It's silent. This does take some practice. The motivation for the creation of "the train kiss" came after sitting in front of a lovely couple who simply could not get enough of one another. They kissed through the countryside. They kissed through the seaside. They kissed down the aisle and they kissed as they floundered out the doors. I still hear them kissing. Jason and I have perfected "the train kiss". No one will have auditory remnants of our sitting near you on a train. You're welcome.

Cravings for home: hugs from my little love bugs. I have nearly requested to borrow several children, just for a hug. Trader Joe's. No particular cravings, I'd just like to wander the isles with my free coffee and food sample, checking out the end-caps for fun and exciting new products. And I'd love me some Body Pump. I have yet to come up with a regular workout routine...eating takes up a lot of my time. Otherwise I'm staying connected to friends and family through text, phone calls (thanks to WhatsApp...those of you who have not yet download this free app, please do so! I'd love to hear your voice), e-mails and Facebook stalking. We do have the greatest and most supportive group of friends and family. Thank you!