Exactly a month ago, I arrived in Paris with two heavy suitcases, a large backpack, and the kind of naive optimism that comes from stepping into a long-held dream.
This was lovely to read. I hope Paris feels like home soon! I’ve experienced the “default” language in the “other language” part of the brain phenomena as well and it is frustrating hehe. In my case, it was Dutch that dribbled out instead of Italian. I’ve lived in Amsterdam for 5 years before I moved to California recently and pieces like these always make me feel conflicted about my move. I agree though that I never truly felt like I belonged there and neither do I feel that way in my new home. So I’m just in for the ride I guess and grateful for the experience.
I love this combination of Dutch and Italian. Do you maintain both languages now that you’re in California? It is a ride—good description. I read something recently that told me I need to follow the rhythm of my life, and that resonated.
This was lovely to read. I hope Paris feels like home soon! I’ve experienced the “default” language in the “other language” part of the brain phenomena as well and it is frustrating hehe. In my case, it was Dutch that dribbled out instead of Italian. I’ve lived in Amsterdam for 5 years before I moved to California recently and pieces like these always make me feel conflicted about my move. I agree though that I never truly felt like I belonged there and neither do I feel that way in my new home. So I’m just in for the ride I guess and grateful for the experience.
I love this combination of Dutch and Italian. Do you maintain both languages now that you’re in California? It is a ride—good description. I read something recently that told me I need to follow the rhythm of my life, and that resonated.
Beautifully written — yes, building a sense of home takes time, patience, and small everyday moments.
Thank you, Sindy! You are so right!