That was fast...

So, it’s been a full year since I left the comfort and familiarity of the US (and DC in particular) and decided to make a chance of lifestyle and live in the Netherlands. I was a bit hesitant at first, having never lived aboard before, but I figured it couldn’t be that bad.. they speak English! Turns out I was right (besides about just speaking the language)! The move has been fantastic decision. I’ve been enjoying myself completely and I have no regrets or concerns in having moved here.

The people have been fantastic.. friendly, helpful and willing to work with a new comer to get things done. It took a bit of time first to get used to the pace at which things happen, but once things where set up.. life has been good.

Some of the great benefits about this place has been the travel that this location provides. Since I’ve been here I’m been out to: England, Sweden, Austria, Turkey, Germany, Belgium and France. Plus, I’ve got plans to visit Dublin, Denmark and Poland, just for starts. Once my car arrives I’ll be heading back down to France to visit some of the World War II sites and I plan on going back up to Germany to hit Berlin and see some of the things up there (and give my car a nice workout on the way!).

The weather really is fantastic.. better then DC (by far) and I would even say better then Seattle, in just the fact that it doesn’t rain as much and on average stays a bit warmer then Seatown.

I’ve been able to pick up some toys, enjoy the relaxing environment and basically enjoy life to the fullest. The food is good, the sites, colorful and the experiences, completely ‘once in a lifetime’.

I don’t know how long I’ll be out here (it’s all defendant on the contract) but I do fully intend to continue enjoying this life and not taking any of it for granted.