Falling in love with...fall

If you think that once summer is over you will only stay home falling slowly into winter lethargy, you are wrong! Philadelphia is a place where you can really enjoy all four seasons needless to say that fall is maybe the best one.  My third expat fall in Philly is well underway and I want to share with you its best moments.

Weekend IN or weekend OUT of Philly?

If the Memorial Day kicks off summer season and weekend getaways at the beach, with the Labor Day it all unofficially ends.

Did you know...?

Ice cream, baby !!!

I am an ice-cream addict. I can have ice-cream every day. And now that I have confessed it, I will share my favorite places in Philly with you:

The high price of living away from home

Over the past weeks I had my twin sister visiting me in Philadelphia. For the first time she was the one leaving when we said goodbye. While I am the one who would be away from our family and happenings, I experienced this time all the bitterness of driving back home from the airport, with my mind filled of flashbacks from the new memories we made. I sighted entering my now empty house, already missing the fun and energy my sister and her kids had brought in. Not knowing when we will do the same again. The following article fell on my lap right after, while I waited for my husband to arrive, and get my mind an easy, since my thoughts were racing back replaying all the decisions we made and make everyday, as very normal expatriates. It is so perfect written, since 2 days ago I have been making its translation from Portuguese, so I could share it with you. If anyone is interested in reading the original, here it is.

By Ruth Manus:

The High Price Of Living Away From Home.

Costs that go way beyond rent.

Flying: the eternal jealously and frustration mankind experience every time a flying bird cuts the sky. We learned to do a million of different things, but being able to fly... That's something life didn't allow us. Maybe for knowing that we, humans, belong to places and people too easily, and in this case, flying would bring crises hard to handle, between the temptation to leave and need to stay.

Well. Then man created the wheel. The Kombi. Skateboard. Harley. The Boeing 737. And we discovered that we could fly without wings. But things got complicated when we realized we could leave without a date to return.

After this, all the braves began to arise leaving behind their poor cities full of misery and hunger to feed their families in capitals filled with opportunities and monsters. These braves left the comfort of their own home to study and dream of an incredible and hypothetic future awaiting them. They left beloved cities to live opportunities that can't happen twice in their lives. These people in the end left behind the lives they could held in their hands, flying to new lives they decided to face with an open heart.

The lives of those who go flying elsewhere are paradoxal, every day. It is a constant heart on the fence. It is crying for wanting to be there while not willing to move from here. It is seeing heaven and hell on departures, and dreams and nightmares in staying. It's to be proud of the choice that offered you a thousand treasures, and hate yourself for the same choice that took from you another thousands precious things.

Living this life is a classic routine: laying in bed thinking of your old home, in the miles away, in the beloved people there, in what they are doing without you, in the laughters you didn't participate, and the hard times you were not there to help either. It's trying to hide a tear without success, and sight knowing you are the only to hold responsible for your decisions. In the next morning, it's wake up feeling alright. Life makes sense again, even though you know other nights like that will come.

But do we ever learn to... get sick without being taken care of, smell food with our eyes, make empty apartments into homes, transform coworkers into friends, pain into resistance, strongly missing someone into just thinking of one?

Will we learn to... be a son/ daughter from far, love via Skype, see kids growing by videos, pretend that Whatsapp can substitute a bar table, be a friend through emoticons instead giving hugs, laugh out loud while typing HAHAHAHAHA... to swallow up the crying and move forward?

I wonder if that will always be the fate of those going through this. Will we be still asking ourselves if we should be here or there? Is this sort of a test, a choice, braveness or karma?

Wondering if we will ever know what's the right place to be. After all, is there a right place to be and live all the uncertainties of life that we insist on pretending we can control?

I know it is not easy. And admire those who face all this, every day. Those who left Vitória da Conquista, Sao José do Rio Preto, Floripa, Juiz de Fora, Recife, Sorocaba, Cuiabá or Paris to build a life in Sao Paulo. Those who left Sao Paulo to go to Rio, Brasilia, Dublin, New York, Aix-en-provence, Brisbane, Lisbon. Those who left Bolivia, Colombia or Haiti to live in Brazil. Those who changed Portugal to Italy, Italy to France, France to Emirates. Those who left Senegal or Marrakesh to pursue happiness in France. Those who left Angola, Mozambique or Cape Verde to live in Portugal. My admiration to those who try, face things up, and go.

It is a high price to pay. We ask ourselves, blame ourselves, stress ourselves. But destiny, life, and our own gut sometimes say we should leave. Some don't go. Those like me who did, are not free of fear and many weaknesses. But we are forever free from fearing to never have tried. Keep walking.

Philly is (finally) in blossom

I have never enjoyed the arrival of spring as much as here in Philadelphia. Guess why? The winter is just so long and seems so endless that at the first warm sunrays people go literally wild. Myself included. There is no point in staying home in spring.

Where will I do my hair again?

It's been a while since our latest review feature. And because finding a good hairdresser can be tricky,let's see some other hair salon we tested for you.

Run like an expat !

What do you think about running? Do you find it energizing as I do? Actually, I wasn’t a runner before I moved to Philadelphia. I used to run around the park in Milan but I only started to run seriously here in the US. It may be because Philly boasts of a great number of running trails or simply because it is an easy and a low-cost work out option. But the most curious thing is that Philly is a running city!

There are run races in every season, of every distance and accessible for everyone. If you are not familiar with the races at all, you may want to know that: 

usually the races are distance races of 5k, 10k, half-marathon or marathon 

there always is a registration and a registration fee

you always run for the cause. In fact, most races are charity runs.

Whether you are an experienced runner or you have just bought your first runner's shoes, here is a list of Philly's most famous races:

The Color Run

Famous in all world, it is also known as “the happiest 5K on the planet”.  It was my first run ever and guys, it was a huge fun. You don’t have to be a runner as no particular physical preparation is necessary. All you need is a willingness to wake up on a Sunday morning and have fun with your friends tossing colors at each other (a little alert here:after the run, you will find colors in the most hidden parts of your body). If you want to do something different from a Sunday brunch or if you are starting your career as a runner, you will definitely enjoy the Color Run. So check it out and get ready for the next one on 25 April!

And, something for expat moms: the run is also child-friendly! 

More info at The Color Run website! 

The Graffiti Run 

It is another colorful 5K with the very similar concept of having fun while you are running. Color explosions of powder wait for you at the green, red, orange, pink zone and finally at the finish line. Again, the purpose is to have blast with friends and so everyone is welcome. Save the date if you are interested because the next Graffiti Run will take place on Sunday, May 18 in Philadelphia/Camden Waterfront.

More info at The Graffiti Run website

Rocky Balboa Run

How should a race held in Philadelphia be called if not after his legendary movie hero? Every year in November, thousands of runners and walkers join the famous Rocky Run. You have two options here: 5K or 10K. Registration is required and the price range is $45 to $65.

More info at the Rocky Balboa Run website

The Broad Street Run

This run is the Philadelphia’s special run. First of all, it is not measured in kilometers but in miles. It is, in fact a 10-mile run along Broad Street passing some most important landmarks of the city. Second, it is the largest 10-mile race in the US. The Broad Street Run, named also Blue Cross Broad Street Run due to its sponsor, is held in May. 

If you want to participate, you will have to be selected in the lottery starting as early as in February. Don't lose hope if you are not selected, though. There are also other charity bibs you may purchase until they all are sold.

More info at the Broad Street Run website!

The Philly 10K

This run was established by Philadelphia Runner, popular running stores in Philadelphia. After its debut last year, the next Philly 10k is coming up on 30 August, 2015. It is a road race through the heart of Philadelphia with the starting point on East Passyunk. You may admire the Philly's most beautiful neighborhoods while enjoying the run! This is what I call combining business with pleasure.

More info coming soon!

Half-marathons 

For all seriously running expat wives, there is a bunch of half-marathon races held in Philadelphia. Here are the most famous one: The Love Run (March), Odyssey Half Marathon (June 14), Rock’n’Roll Marathon Series (October 31). Ok, I am not that far with my work out yet. But if YOU are, you can share some running hints with me...

So girls, are you ready for some expat wives run ?

8 Brazilian habits I lost when I moved to America

Culture habits and relationship dynamics are very particular to every country. Although moving abroad does not change us to the core, it does shape our behavior. Here I share with you few things that have slowly transformed me ever since I moved from Brazil:

Get (un)dressed !

The first warm temperatures and sun rays made me feel so happy this week! Firstly, because everything becomes more beautiful in spring, secondly, because I don’t need to wear thousands of layers and thick winter coats anymore (knock knock knock on the wood).

So, while I was searching for some spring clothes in my closet, I thought about sharing a few interesting styles each for a different occasion.

Think out of the box

Here's a new way of shopping that has spread around America pretty quickly, setting a new trend on online purshase behavior: Subscription Boxes. As an expatriate, I can say I haven't seen the same occurring in my home country, or some of those I recently visited. It works just like signing for a magazine - for a monthly fee you get monthly services and products = almost customized evaluation + best selection + delivered at your door. Super convenient and game changing!

10 expat problems

1. Managing investments in 2 or more countries
Yes, dealing with different currencies/rates makes staying on top of investments a little bit of a piece of work!

2. Lost in translation
Have you found something super funny but trying to explain to someone else you realized its translation doesn't make sense? Embarrassing! My husband thinks I have no sense of humor no more!

3. Emotional buying
I can't leave my husband alone shopping in the Italian market, he brings everything home!!!! I mean it!

4. Missing out
I wasn't there when three of my nephews were born or when my mother passed. I missed some weddings, group vacations, birthdays, housewarmings and baptism parties...

5. Being okay with #4
I learned I can't be everywhere. Time doesn't stop and my resources aren't infinite. Life happens, and my participation on people's lives shouldn't be punctuated by milestones or anything but connection. Yes, cherish and love can be felt from long distances!

6. Goodbyes
But I didn't get numb! I cry when the vacation is over and it is time for saying goodbyes to my loved ones... Every time.

7. Cravings are not restricted to PMS anymore
Self explanatory, right! I crave passion fruit juice or coconut water like... all the time.

8. Autocorrector does not correct anymore
I have 3 languages in my phone, my Autocorrector is almost my enemy!

9. Belonging or not belonging: that is the question
When you think of yourself a little bit of an alien in your expatriate country but go back home for vacation only to find out that you feel the same way there too!

10. DIY beauty routines
It's hard for me to find a place that gives me satisfactory beauty service. Too bad, depending of where you move as an expat it gets difficult to find a good waxing studio, or hairdresser. So I learned homemade facials, to trim my bangs, wax myself... and honestly I'm happy to wax me (said goodbye to bruises and bumps, and hello to extra cash... Not a bad exchange!). In my first attempts I bought microwavable wax (super easy to find on eBay, Amazon & some drugstores), but slowly moved to making my own honey wax. Wanna give it a try, and learn for any emergency? Here's how to DIY.

Ingredients: 2 tsp Honey • 1 part Lime • 2 parts Sugar | How to: bring everything to boil while stirring non-stop until it smoothly covers the back of your wood spoon. It will be super hot! Do not touch it until is warm to the skin and have gooey consistency

Hope I brought a smile to your face, at least I had one while writing this! Go ahead and tell me what's in your list!

Peace out!
Mari

Love is in the air

     Next week most of us will celebrate Valentine's Day. There are definitely people there who thinks that this holiday is not serious enough and there is no need to do something special for celebrating it. I would agree that you can't compare with Christmas or New Year, but since the moment I met the love of my life I started to take Valentine's criticism very personally. When you are in love, you start to like all these fake red hearts and silly postcards everywhere.

 

How to spend a productive and gratifying winter

It is freezing outside and the only thing you feel like doing is...NOTHING! You are normally very active person who enjoys all different outdoor activities but now the best thing that comes through your mind is to grab a blanket and watch a nice movie. That is also an option, don't get me wrong. But for those who want to win over their lazy selves, I offer you some tips for turning chilly weekends into pleasant and self-rewarding moments.

5 things I learned from living abroad

The other day someone asked me if the experience of living in another country taught me not be afraid to try new things, and I realized that's not true for me. It's the other way around: was my experimenting mindset that helped me to live better in a new country. But then, I got trigged to list what moving has thought me so far. And here it is!

Self-development opportunities?

     There are lots of ways for self-improvement. My way is not a panacea. And my advice would not be applicable for everybody. But one thing I know for sure, if you are not happy with what you are at right now, you need to change something.

Keep calm and...detox

January 2015, welcome! If January were a human, it would probably be dragging her(him)self away slowly from the couch

A brand new you

A new year is about to begin and in retrospect is usual to name accomplishments, compare life now versus the beginning of the year... and write some resolutions short-term/ long-term.

Party in the USA! 10 dos and don'ts

If you ever get a little confused with the American party etiquette, you are not alone!

Holiday season is opened and I share with you some insight of what to do (or not to) as a guest & host. Hope from now on you please Uncle Sam, and be nice according to Santa Claus eyes too!

Guest essentials:

1. Respond invitations ahead

It's polite to show you are making room in your agenda; confirming last minute will send a wrong message (as if you were giving priority to something else). In case you can't confirm with brevity, give the heads up - and make sure to mention when you will be able to answer. Don't stress with the whys, usually nobody cares, everyone just want to better plan the party - and the number of people attending is key. Americans are okay and respectful of people having other plans already drafted, hardly you will hurt someone feelings (but ditching is a different story, be aware).

2. Do not be late

Not sure being on time is actually something only British, as far as I know Americans are pretty much on spot. So don't make people wait (unless they always make you, in which case it wouldn't be disrespectful by default!). Definitely forget the idea of being cool if not punctual - 15min window is tolerated, anything more will present you to the group as rude or careless (here it is considered very selfish to make people run by your clock. Besides, in this country time is a very valuable asset. Get it?)

3. Charm the host

Avoid being empty handed. Lack ideas? Casual events ask for wine, beer, cheese, dessert... Asking the host is not bad! But for special parties I tend to think of a special wine/ liquor, an exotic cooking oil, flowers or a beautiful candle.

4. Be ready to take your shoes off

No shoes policy inside American homes is more common than you can imagine. Most of times people will let you know in advance, but also quite often they assume you would know. Well, now you do!

Hosting Top 6:

1. Prepare ahead

Make a checklist of things to do, and prepare in the prior evening all you can: marinate meat, wash salad and fruits, set table layout... In the day of the event, less is more! So you are ready to greet your guests at the door, and most important: enjoy the party.

2. You set the mood

If you have fun, chances are the whole group will. A friend once told that a party is over when one starts cleaning, and this statement proves to be right all the time for me. Also, I tend to worry too much if there is anything missing, if you are the same... Try drinking another glass and loose it up! My worst nightmare is making people uncomfortable at my place, and I realized I do that when overthinking if they are okay.

3. Arrange a DIY drink station

This is something I have seen quite often here. It is an awesome idea to engage talk among guests, and get the focus away from you if you are busy

4. Get by with a little help

If your event is casual, it is fine to ask guests to bring wine, a side dish or dessert. Just DO NOT make individual calls - either wait for people to offer or be sure to generally add to the invitation "please bring an appetizer of your choice". If anything, you can always ask for some hands when the party starts! One of my friends purposely dont get things ready in time just to engage people, and help conversation flow. Last, NEVER ask for help cleaning up! People who would like to (help), will make their way.

5. Favors

Special events require a small favor in return, and people really expect it. By special occasion Americans mean Holiday parties, showers, children's and milestone birthdays, welcome/ goodbye parties, house-warming... be prepared!

6. Pay thanks

Always thank your guests. If the occasion was very important, try to send flowers their way. If it was a formal event, a well handwritten thank note works best. But if your party was just a casual affair, no problem keeping it as it is - an email or text message is fine.

Peace, fancy china out & glasses up ladies! Happy Holidays!!

What are you thankful for?

One of the most important days in a year is coming up: Thanksgiving Day. If you have been living in the US for a few years already, you are definitely used to it and you may well have become an expert at cooking a turkey.

English with Joy

     Yesterday without planning for it we went to the movies. It was a nice movie of a good producer and the evening was really nice. Which made me think how great it is going to the movies and understand what the actors are talking about.