expat

Last year I was stuck in Cambridge, unable to travel because of immigration restrictions, and I decided to make a list.

I sat in a cafe I disliked in a town I hated with a piece of paper and a bleary pen. I outlined where I wanted to be, and what it would take to get there. The specific destination was less important than the philosophical imperative of change - profound, brutal, transformative, necessary.

Back then I didn't like my life, so radical departure did not pose a threat. Transgressions are immaterial if you have no expectations.

The big day is here - strictly family invited this year - drum roll please:

We have achieved pie. And it isn't even 2am yet!

Other fixins are stacked in the fridge preparatory for an early start. 5kg turkey? £54. And a bargain at that! Because, remember, turkey is not a November bird. . . we Americans stranded in Europe this week have to cajole out of season slaughter.

There are many aspects of this new London life that I like, but I am absolutely infatuated with the British Film Institute.

The film premieres, retrospectives, special events, and extensive archives provide incalculable delights. Iain has wondered if I actually live in a cupboard under Southbank, since I'm there so often.

If only.

I became a parent before I was officially an adult, and have devoted the better part of twenty years to that project, in fundamental and fierce ways.

It took ruthless and heartbreaking commitment to launch this family on our grand international adventure.

Of course I suffer from the classic complaint of immigrant intolerance, and have a tendency to ask my eye-rolling offspring if they understand how good their lives are, compared to mine at the same age.

Yeah, whatever, cancer cancer poverty poverty blah-blah!

Bonfire Night: the first time since moving to the UK that I do not need to move & guard my boat on the holiday!

I would say I miss her, but she sends postcards.

Instead of festivities and fireworks I found myself consulting the internet for guidance on subjects such as best or favourite emergency room then whisking my charming companion away for a night of frolics in the A&E.