Meetup.com

So apparently this app is the best way to meet people abroad now. I learned about this app when I first moved to London, courtesy of Debbie:)

It operates in a similar manner as Facebook, in that there are groups you can search for and join and they host weekly/monthly gatherings. There's just about a group for any type of expat, so you can easily meet like-minded people. I've joined several groups but haven't been able to attend the afternoon wine tastings or midday breakfasts and coffees because my toddler just doesn't like to sit still. Imagine that. Well all that's changed now that she's in school part-time and I actually have 4 Riya-free hours, 3 days a week...that is until baby boy is born (9 weeks left)!!!

So my goal has been to partake in at least one coffee or breakfast a week and spend one day exploring an area I haven't experienced yet. And the third, resting, because all this moving about is exhausting on my pregnant body:/ So far I've attended a few coffees and have a breakfast coming up this week. Its been so nice to get out and do adult things and connect with people (it only took 10 months).

I still struggle as a mother of a 2 year old with a baby on the way to find a group that I actually fit into, but that's what happens when you live in such a big city that is so spread out. I have discovered a group that meets weekly in my area for pregnant and new moms, so that has been helpful. Hearing stories about delivering here has also been, lets say, interesting. Although it doesn't look like I will build everlasting friendships with a lot of these new people I am meeting, I am thankful for the opportunity to get out and be me. 

September happenings

August and September have just flown by! I cannot believe its October already. That means, my handsome hubby is about to join me in the 3-5 club!!!! Time to be on the wrong side of 30 with me babe :)

Sorry my posts have been non-existent lately, but I haven't exactly had any inspiration for writing when I've had to deal with teething for the greater portion of the last 2 months:/ Mostly, I'm just trying to catch up on sleep whenever I can!

Anyway, I love September. Its the start of the school year. The start of football season. And most importantly, the start of fall. Everywhere I go I see the leaves changing color. I'm fall-ing in love with London all over again.

View from our patio

Fall weather is picture perfect and suits me well. The sun still provides the warmth you need to keep that coat stashed away and its a lovely 60 degrees outside. Riya and I love our afternoon strolls where we both quietly observe the beauty around us.

Riya is on her 3rd week of school and staying for four hours on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. I'm still working on making sure I don't spend the entire time at doctor's appointments or doing my chores. But so far the time apart has been so good for my soul. Having this alone time before baby boy comes is so precious to me and I'm thankful for it. I'm determined to devote at least one of those days to exploration each week. I plan to discover new areas and places and get caught up with this beautiful city.