Hard to believe, but it's been 290 days since we left our little Céret, and it's just 7 days now until we are on our way to resume the French half of our lives. We've reached the point where we are very keen to be off.
Céret will be very different for us this year. We are so looking forward to just living and working in France, without renovations taking up much of our time. Our command of the language is way ahead of where we started last year, as we have been listening to French lessons at least three times a week, speak only French on our 2-hour-long Saturday walks, and try to think in French as much as possible.
Back in Nelson, almost all of our house contents now live in the garage, and we won't see them again for almost 8 months. Even then it will be only fleetingly, as we return to pick up what we need while we rent in Nelson for the 3 months (February, March & April) until we head back on our 2014 return. Compared to our normal departure for an overseas trip, this one has been hard work. Last year we rented the house furnished, but this time it is rented unfurnished, for at least a year, which has meant a lot of sorting, packing and carrying of boxes.
It does feel very odd to be heading out of our own home for nearly 17 months, after almost 10 years living here! At the same time it is rather exciting, not knowing what the future holds for us next year in Nelson. We are thinking we might rent an apartment on the waterfront.
We can't see ourselves moving permanently from Walters Bluff for some time. Having been away 5 months last year gave us a fresh perspective on Nelson and our home. Nelson's location on the sea, the weather and the feel of the town are really pretty special. We have so enjoyed the gorgeous summer, and the perfect clear days of autumn. On the other hand, Europe is finally warming up after an unusually cold spring, and some hot weather will be most welcome.
