August was an unusual and emotional month. Early on, I was thrilled to have Markell and his friend Nick visit for eleven days. At the same time, I was preparing for the third stage of a job interview, so I had to stay focused while making the most of our time together. We took a wonderful trip to Madrid—you can read more about it in the “Posts” section below. When Markell left, I felt genuinely sad. Even though he is almost twenty, living in a different country from him can still be difficult. I had little time to dwell on it, though, because I advanced to the final interview round and received an offer. I spent the second half of the month giving notice at my current job, saying many emotional goodbyes, and cautiously preparing for a new role. Overall, it was a good month—just one filled with big changes and a lot of emotion.
Destinations:
Cheltenham, Bristol and Witney, England
Madrid, Spain
Favorite destinations:
Bristol, England — Bristol is a vibrant city with riverside bars, breweries, and a creative, artsy atmosphere. I spent an afternoon there with Markell and a group of friends, and it’s also home to my new workplace. I’ve enjoyed my visits so far and look forward to exploring more of the city.
Highlights:
Getting a job offer — After searching on and off for a UK-based role since March—and reaching the final round for two other positions earlier this year without receiving an offer—I finally landed one! The process included four interviews, but it felt much smoother than my earlier experiences, and I’m grateful it worked out. I’ll be joining a Microsoft Partner startup of about 50 employees as a Senior Project Manager, helping businesses implement Microsoft tools.
Getting this job also means that the countless hours I’ve spent applying, updating my résumé, and preparing for interviews since moving are finally behind me. I’ll have more time to relax and enjoy my hobbies again.
I began looking for a new role because continuing my U.S. job from the UK meant working from 1 p.m. until 9 p.m. or later. I wanted a more typical schedule so I could enjoy my evenings instead of fitting everything into the morning. Earning a UK salary will also help me build local credit and potentially qualify for a mortgage if we decide to buy a home here.
Celebrating our fifth wedding anniversary – Mark and I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary on August 21. It was hard to believe five years had passed! We exchanged cards, opened a bottle of wine we bought in New Zealand last year, and dined at Prithvi, an upscale restaurant featured in the Michelin Guide. The restaurant blends classic Indian flavors with contemporary European techniques, and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Challenges:
Changing jobs — After more than seven years with the same company, giving notice to my manager and sharing the news with many colleagues was emotional. Several reached out to talk and stay in touch. I recommended someone to take over my role, and once they agreed, I began involving them in my work while also training a colleague who joined our team in March. I remained engaged in resolving issues until my final days, documented numerous processes, and shared as much knowledge as possible before leaving. I’m grateful to be departing on good terms and, if I ever return to the U.S., I might consider applying to the company again. After so many years in a familiar role, starting somewhere new naturally brings some uncertainty, but I’m hopeful the new company will offer the schedule and work environment I’ve been seeking.
Getting Markell health insurance – Because I’m leaving my U.S.-based job, Markell and I will lose our health insurance. I’m covered by the NHS in England, but I had to use Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace for the first time to find coverage for Markell. Comparing plans, benefits, and costs took considerable effort, and I hope I chose the best option for his needs. I continue to find it deeply frustrating that health insurance in the U.S. is tied to employment.
Posts:
Coming up in September 2026:
I’ll have just over a week off between jobs, so I’m planning to visit a close friend near Stuttgart, Germany, and take my UK driving test. The test is challenging, and I’m nervous about passing on my first attempt. My cousin from the U.S. will also visit England during my break, and we’re spending a weekend in Liverpool. I’ll start my new job in mid-September, then travel to Leeds later that month for the wedding of one of Mark’s friends. I’m also excited to visit the UK’s first Chick-fil-A while we’re there. It will be a busy but enjoyable month.
Noelle Across The Pond 