When Reality Hurts

Time is too short when you are having fun. This is always the case when I go for my yearly visit to the Philippines. Our vacation this year was quite memorable. For one, hubby had to be admitted to the hospital for a few days. We also celebrated our first wedding anniversary. Although I was able to avoid the traditional Dutch birthday parties, I was quite moved to receive long distance calls from my MIL, and my two BILs and their families to greet me on my birthday. Overall, my vacation revolved around family, friendships, reunions and endless celebrations . Hubby even mentioned how much impressed he was by the fact that I still keep in touch with some of my grade school, high school, and university friends, work colleagues and friends I have met in London. Definitely a month was not enough to be with all of them. I was also pleased to see my former German and Austrian classmates in London who are now both working in Manila. Admittedly, there was not a single day when I even thought of being back to the Netherlands. Now it is time for me to face reality again -- cold, gloomy short days and far away from my family and good friends. Although I have been living abroad for the last six years, leaving the Philippines after my yearly visit is always heartbreaking. Hubby and I discussed that perhaps in the future we could consider staying for a year or two in the Philippines. We were inspired by two of our friends who managed to move back to Manila with their British husbands in tow after finding some job possibilities. If only there are immediate job opportunities for hubby, I would gladly pack my stuff and settle back home. If only, the distance between the Netherlands and the Philippines is not too much, perhaps I can visit more often to resolve my longing for home. If only... On the other hand, there is always something to look forward the following year. At this early, we have already planned for our next trip to the Philippines with my family and friends. I also do look forward to the visit of my mom and sister this year, and show them around the Netherlands. For now, I have to settle for relieving the wonderful memories of my recent trip, until it is time to head back home again. Paradiso. Sea, sun and fun. Winding down City life is cool. There is always a reason to party... and celebrate more... but there is a lot of space to be alone as well, and enjoy the beauty in life.... underwater... or inland. Happy faces....even when life is difficult.....