It's that time of year...and not only is it a New Year, it's the end of a decade. Tossing a calendar just tends to make one ponder.
The 21st century has seen huge changes for me personally: two international moves with Phoebe the Expat Cat (who unfortunately passed away in 2008)--I lived in Mexico and then moved to Buenos Aires. I had cancer for the second time. I made six trips to Cuba. My Argentine partner and I started teaching tango together. And I fell in love.
Those are the dramatic points. The decade was full of lots of other ups and downs that had to do with living and adjusting to other cultures and language. I'm still trying to adjust, and I don't think I ever will. Living in Buenos Aires is not easy for me; it's a daily challenge and sometimes I rise to it and sometimes I don't. The truth is, without Ruben's help, I don't think I could.
So here I am working on a new decade, the 'teens of the 21st century. Would I do it all again? Yes, for all the difficulties and tears of the past 10 years, I'm thankful for the opportunity of growth and the grace of the love of a good man, which might not have happened in Los Angeles.
But there is a price to pay. So far it's worth it.
5 comments:
Dear Cherie, I've been reading your blog for a few weeks now and have really enjoyed it. You and the other expat's blogs keep me closer to mi Buenos Aires Querido, the city where my family and I would like to go back in a couple of years, this time for good! After twenty years in Orange County, California, it's time to come back a la patria. I wish you a healthy and happy 2010. Keep writing, I'll keep visiting!
Marcela
Cherie,
You bring a dose of reality to your story. Sometimes it seems everyone thinks "the grass is always greener..." and then they are surprised. It's what you bring to it, and you have brought a lot of light to your journey, and you have shared it with us!
Happy New Year to you Cherie, and to Ruben.
Big Hug,
E
If it weren't for love, I doubt I would be living here in Argentina; however, as you point out, the love and support of a partner is priceless and makes everything worthwhile.
I hope the New Year brings you continued health, happiness and success. And tango too! ;)
Un beso,
Katie
I fell madly in love with Buenos Aires when I was there and it was love at first sight. Then again, it's different being there as a tourist. However, I'd dearly take on the challenge to try and become a porteña...
Please give my love to San Telmo!
Thank you, ladies, for your warm comments. You are why I write this stuff.
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