The longer we vacation in the states and the more questions people ask, the more strange things I remember about my new home in London.  For instance, toilets are shaped funny.  I had forgotten all about that, but in describing house cleaning to our cousin, that thought came to the forefront.  I can just say that when you visit, you might want to drop two sheets of toilet paper in the bowl before you sit down to help avoid a ginormous splash.  The dust that collects in corners and all along the floor boards each week is baffling; we are completely unused to radiator heat and open-the-windows cooling.  Trying to do dishes in a single sink and cook in an oven with nobs that I can’t figure out had previously faded into the background of my London adjustments…  Using a real, live, full-size clothes dryer reminds me of the things that have been naturally assimilated into my daily routine.

As strange as I found my life to be upon setting up house in the big wild city, I am realizing how quickly I formed habits related to a very delicate rotation of wet clothing between washer, radiator, chair, and drying rack.  In conversations with family and friends about world issues or current events I am already able to see how my short time living exposed to the casual social drinkers and national healthcare (among other things) has influenced how I feel about politics, social responsibility, and my place in the world.

Only time will tell what the lasting effects are on me –  on us both, really.  Whatever the case may be, I am still thankful for the encouragement of our beautiful family and friends.  I am grateful for the support and excitement you have for us.  Realizing this opportunity would be all that more difficult without it.