He was everything I needed to feel again—a glimpse of light in the depths of my grief. He gave me laughter, hope, and the feeling of being needed. I am grateful for him, for showing me I can trust myself and choose my own needs, no longer allowing fear to control me.

Going to London with a partner who in the end simply wasn’t a good fit made me feel incredibly lonely, even though we were together constantly. I realized that the feeling of loneliness while being in that partnership was far more unbearable than being single at 38.

After surpassing my three-month mark since leaving Canada for Split, Croatia, I’m reflecting on the surprising ease of this transition. The high tourist season has made the adjustment feel like an extended vacation, while I gradually build a new network and adapt to local customs. Embracing cultural integration is crucial, as simply carrying over my Toronto habits doesn’t always work in Split. This journey has also highlighted a significant shift from a chaotic past to a more serene lifestyle, prompting a reevaluation of my relationship with stress and tranquility. As I navigate this new chapter, blending my Canadian background with Croatian life remains a key focus, balancing personal identity with the evolving experience of living abroad.