In no particular order, these are the lists I made when I was stuck in my dilemma of what now, what next, what’s best.

Of course, that decision is now made! But I thought I would still share, for those of you enjoying this experience vicariously, or those who wonder whether the grass would truly be greener if they made the leap they have been pondering.

Things I love:

– Sunshine
– Whole weeks off
– Long walks along the promenade
– Space (no crowds, no busy tubes!)
– Amazing skies
– Cost of life
– Affordability of eating and drinking out
– The comfort and ease of island life
– Lie ins
– Sitting by the sea with a book
– Living in casual clothes and flat shoes
– A non-judgemental / non-materialistic world

Things I miss:

– Boots
– Holland and Barrett
– Oysters
– Really good sheeps cheese and soya yoghurt
– Edamame beans
– A not restricted selection of vegetables
– Scented candles
– Impromptu plans with friends or family
– Attending birthdays and BBQs
– Being able to consider flying to New Zealand or the US to see friends
– The gym
– A sensible postal service and next day Amazon delivery
– Having a car
– The NHS
– Not being allergic to the soap
– The anonymity of a city
– Occasionally spoiling myself (waxing, nails etc)
– Being there for my friends when they need me
– Understanding the system
– Speaking the language
– Life in one currency
– Owning my own flat
– Job security
– All the wonderful stuff I have in storage
– Running without being scared an injury could cost me my job.