Scottish Dreams

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I suppose some people may wonder why I'm willing to uproot my life and move several thousand miles and an ocean away from my family and friends. Believe me, my family and my best friend were none too pleased when I first gave them the news. I rode out their reactions and now we have everyone's support. But I know having us leave is difficult. Leaving is difficult. But here are the reasons why Steve and I decided that moving to Scotland was the right thing:

1. Steve was a young lad of 27 when he moved here on June 3, 1999, to marry me and make a life in the States. We had made a list of the pros and cons of living in the UK and living in the USA early in our engagement, and the USA won. We've made a good life here. But Steve left behind his family and friends, while I remained within easy striking distance of mine. It's Steve's turn to be closer to his family. Granted, we're still going to be about six hours away, but the travel is a lot easier and cheaper. 

2. While not a reason, the fact that my Mom is able to fly over and visit made the decision easier. 

3. The job opportunity was a very good one for Steve. He'll be working on a new project, which provides a challenge he enjoys. 

4. It's the right time. This one is hard to quantify. It just feels right to make this move now. Steve is ready to go home. Though, technically, home is England. But still . . . 

5. Scotland captured my heart long before I ever set foot there. Back in my Ren Faire days, my character was a Scot. At the time, I didn't know I actually had Scottish ancestry. I just loved the Scottish culture and history. A move to Scotland spoke to my soul.

6. The weather. Oh sure, some people have wondered how we could give up the Florida sunshine for the gray, damp chill of Scotland. Visiting Florida is great. You enjoy the sunshine and warmth for a week or two and everything's great. But living here, frankly, sucks. And I'm not talking about the state's online rep as the home of reprobates and whackos. I'm talking about stepping out the door in the middle of August and feeling like someone threw a hot, wet blanket over your head. Florida sunshine comes with insane humidity. I've lived here for just about my entire life, I'm over it. Keep the heat, give me the cold!

7. The beautiful landscape. Yes, the US has some magnificent vistas. But it's hard to get to all of them. The country is freakin' huge. You can't just jump in the car and take a day trip to the Grand Canyon when you live in Florida. Scotland has some beautiful countryside, too. And it's a lot smaller. I'm already creating a sightseeing list in my head of the places I want to visit during various weekends. And I'll be sharing all of them on this blog.

8. Finally, Scotland represents a different, better way of life. I read recently that it's easier to establish new habits when you make a major change. I think moving across the globe is a pretty major change. So Steve and I are both hoping to establish a new, more active lifestyle. That Florida heat and humidity I mentioned makes it really difficult to get outside and be active. I've already bought a new pair of hiking boots in anticipation of rambling all around the Highlands.

Yes, leaving my family and friends behind is going to be difficult and painful. But I know in my heart this is the right thing to do. And I'm excited for the new adventure.

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