This morning, in order to make an 8:30 meeting, I caught the 6:35 bus.
I was up at 5 am, and started walking to the train station around 6:15, in the snow. I was having a good hair day when I left and normally I’d have gone back for an umbrella, but Danish busses aren’t known for their punctuality in either direction, so I sacrificed my hair in order to make the meeting ontime. Someday, I will remember that I don’t have a car and need to pay attention to the weather before going outside.
After 40 minutes or so of riding in the dark, I got off the bus into the freezing cold morning and hiked to my office, which was about another 10-15 minute walk. It was icy. There were no sidewalks for part of the way, and I was thinking it might be a good idea to get a blinking vest or something so I don’t get rundown by a truck.
Through all of this, I was looking forward to calling it an early day at work and taking the 15:42 home, but opened my inbox to find a meeting invite for 15:00. So, I will do the reverse trip close to 5 PM and likely not get home until after 6. Exhausted.
So, this morning I got my first true glimpse of the reality of my life in Denmark, without a car. As an American, I’ve lived an easy and somewhat spoiled life, but that’s ok, I really want to live in Europe…
Anonymous says
I know exactly how you feel. I used to walk 30 minutes to work every day when I lived in Germany. You are right. We are very spoiled, and it takes living abroad to realize that others don’t live the same as we do. Good for you. Stick it out, and keep letting us know how it’s going!!
Joni says
That’s a big adjustment for you, but I know you can do it.
Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries™ says
If nothing more, it is a wonderful exercise in the art of appreciation! I’m keeping good thoughts for you Sage.
Warmly,
Tracey
P.S. Registration at 180 percent of the car’s value…insane!!