On my S*** List

I have the blues.

About five months ago, I moved halfway across the globe to a place where I didn't know a soul.

I haven't seen my best friends, family, or pugpug in what seems like forever... and the novelty of leaving everything I know for an exciting (but also scary) adventure has somewhat worn off and I'm realizing just how "distant" I really feel.

I'm gonna bitch for a bit, ok?

Ok.

1.  My mattress: I've inherited an IKEA extra-long, full-sized bed (does that make sense?).  It is basically a droopy pita pocket.  Each night, as I lay for hours like a sleepless piece of schwarma, I plot my revenge on the Swedes...and think about how nice it must be to date a chiropractor...or tiny Asian woman.

2.  The Dutch Postal Service: Eight weeks ago, my mama sent me a replacement digital camera for Christmas (the one I brought got smashed at Julie's going away party...).  After Elena payed a trillion dollars for shipping and insurance, the Dutch postal service (TNT) held it for almost 6 weeks in customs.  When I finally received it last week, I had to pay them 30 Euros in value added tax.  Yep, I paid for my own present.  I'm not happy, Mr. Postman. :(

3.  Weather/Lack of Daylight:  Short days, blustery weather and my unusually late work schedule make it very hard for me to get the crucial, energizing sunshine I crave.  Rain makes riding my bike--which is usually a joy--absolutely miserable.  And Lord knows my hair texture can't cope with 120% humidity.  I went from 70 degrees and sunny to 9 degrees and which-way-is-East.  I'm turning into Eeyore!

4.  Money:  Applied for Raakvlaak in order to be paid for that Eneco energy commercial I shot in September.  Was denied.  Because I am a "knowledge visitor" (when they hired me, Boom had to prove to the Dutch authorities that I deserved this job more than a native Nederlander...), I'm not allowed to work for anyone else.  Hopefully this will get sorted soon... I gotsta get payed!!

A haiku:

Alone, damp and cold

Dutch customs can S my D.

I want my mommy.

I'll feel better soon.  Mom and Dad are coming in 3 weeks for my birthday and I can't wait for us to explore Barcelona together.

xxxxxxxx (hold me)

Jess