Tag: Family

Parenting Abroad: The Pull of Family

lwjoefmy

Home Sweet Home

When parenting abroad there’s something magical about going back home to the UK, surrounded by my parents, my sister, and my little girl. Last week, I was there with them, feeling the familiar warmth of my childhood home. The place where my life began and part of my heart will always reside. It was a time to let go, to relax, and to soak in the joy of watching my daughter with family who love her as much as I do.

Parenting abroad. Grandparents and child

Parenting abroad has come with sacrifices. My career took me to Germany, where I built a life I truly love. But there’s always this feeling that I’ve given up quite a bit along the way. First, it was for my career, and now it’s for the life that naturally built itself around it. It’s a fulfilling life, yet I often feel the pull of home, of family, and the experiences that come so naturally when you’re close to them.

Precious Time with Family

Each visit to the UK is a reminder of the deep connections that no amount of distance can erase. For that short time, I’m able to pass some of the responsibility over to my family. I can exhale, knowing my daughter is in the loving, capable hands of my parents and sister. The joy they take in reading to her, playing with her, and sharing in her world is a kind of magic that fills me up in a way that words can barely express.

As my daughter grows, I can see the surprise and wonder in my family’s eyes as they take in her new skills, the words she’s learned, and her changing personality. Each time we visit, she’s a little more her own person, and it’s so important to me that they witness this journey.

I’ve made it one of my goals to get to the UK as often as possible so they can experience each phase of her childhood. And yet, somehow, it never feels like enough. There are still so many moments they miss. I often feel a pang of guilt every time I see them together, knowing how precious these shared times are. Making it harder and harder to leave when the trip comes to an end. Especially when my daughter asked for them once we have returned back home.

Returning to Germany and Finding Balance

Now we are back in Germany, all settling back into daily life. Here, it’s normal not to have family close by, and our lives continue. This is when I turn to my friends. Instead of family, I’ve built a circle of wonderful friends who’ve become my support system. Especially since joining the parenting abroad group, I have wanted to find friends with whom I can go on this journey. They’re the people I share life with, make memories with, and lean on when family is far away. This network means so much to me. And even though it’s never quite the same as having family around the corner, there has always been someone I can turn to.

As grateful as I am for these people – most of whom are ex-pats too – leaving my family in the UK never gets easier. No matter how often I make the trip, there’s always that tug at my heart when saying goodbye. I know I’ll carry the moments from this visit with me, each one bringing me warmth until the next time I can come home.

WIth love,

Harriet

The Power of Family and Personal Growth: A Year of Reflection

ABL_Dance

This past week marked my birthday—a time for reflection on the past year, which has been filled with immense change, growth, and new experiences. It’s an opportunity to look back on how far we’ve come and to feel grateful for the support systems that have helped us along the way. As I look back, I’m reminded of the importance of family, friends, and positive influences in our lives, especially in the context of balancing a demanding career in ballet with the joys and challenges of motherhood.

The Support of Family and Friends

Family support can make a world of difference, particularly when balancing a professional career and personal life. I have been fortunate to have a wonderful support system, including my husband, parents, sibling and a circle of positive friends who have become like family to me. They provide the encouragement and understanding needed to navigate the many phases of life.

However, not everyone is always surrounded by family. Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations where our immediate circle may not provide the encouragement or positivity we need. I remember times during my school years or even in the company, where it wasn’t easy to find a supportive environment. It’s during these moments that we need to seek out those positive influences—whether it’s a friend, teacher, or colleague who can offer a different perspective and shine a light on the situation. These relationships can help us see challenges as opportunities for growth and development.

If you’re a young dancer or someone embarking on a new journey, remember that the people you surround yourself with matter. Find those who uplift you, inspire you, and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. It’s easy to get stuck in a bubble, bringing each other down, but finding that one person who can lift you up can make all the difference.

My supportive colleagues and team of swans at the Badisches Staaststheater Karlsruhe after our last run of Swan Lake

Reflecting on a Year of Change

As I celebrated my birthday this week, I couldn’t help but reflect on the many changes that have taken place over the past year. Life is full of phases—some are wonderful, while others are challenging. But each phase brings with it an opportunity for growth and development. I’ve learned that while we can influence these changes by being proactive and driven, sometimes, change simply happens. And it’s during these moments that we have the chance to develop and grow.

Looking back over the past year, I see how much has changed in my own life. From becoming a mother to balancing a career as a dance teacher in Munich, I’ve experienced both the highs and the lows. There have been moments of exhaustion and doubt, but also moments of joy and fulfillment. Through it all, I’ve learned to embrace each phase, knowing that it’s an opportunity to learn and grow.  

Being That Person for My Daughter

Reflecting on my journey as a dancer, I’m reminded of my own mother and the role she played in my development. She was my partner, my travel buddy, my agent, and my biggest supporter. From driving me to auditions and summer schools to staying up late listening to me recount every detail of a performance, she was always there for me. Her unwavering support and encouragement were invaluable, helping me navigate the ups and downs of a career in ballet.

Now, as a mother myself, I look forward to being that person for my little girl. Whatever path she chooses, I want to be there to support her, to encourage her, and to help her navigate the many phases of life. Whether she decides to follow in my footsteps and pursue a career in dance or chooses a completely different path, I will be there to guide her, cheer her on, and help her see the beauty in every phase of her journey.

Embracing Gratitude and Looking Ahead

As I look ahead to the coming year, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences of the past year and the lessons they have taught me. Balancing a new career with the joys of motherhood isn’t always easy, but it’s a journey filled with growth, discovery, and immense joy. I’m grateful for the support of my family and friends, for the opportunities to teach and inspire young dancers, and for the chance to continue growing both personally and professionally.

To all the young dancers reading this, know that you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges, but it’s how we respond to them that defines us. Surround yourself with positive influences, embrace each phase of life with gratitude, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth.  

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Here’s to another year of growth, discovery, and the joy of dance.

With Love,

Harriet xxx