After 14 years abroad, I moved back to my home state of California. I'm happier now than I've been in years.
The author recounts her decision to move back to California after 14 years living abroad, primarily in York, England. She details the personal challenges, including loneliness and family losses, that led to her realization that she needed to return home for a sense of belonging and happiness.
Why it matters
This personal narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the emotional complexities of expatriate life and repatriation, resonating with anyone who has experienced significant life changes or cultural shifts.
The author said she and her dog love hiking near where they live in California. Courtesy of Rebecca Mendoza. I lived abroad for 14 years and built a nice life for myself. I came home to care for my sick aunt and realized how much I missed life in the US. I'm back in California , connecting with friends and family and happier than I've been in years. In October 2025, I packed up my 15-pound hairless Xoloitzcuintli, Troy, and the rest of my belongings and moved from the north of England back to my hometown in California. I was exhausted, relieved, excited, heartbroken, and so hopeful. I'd been living outside the US for 14 years — a year in Taiwan teaching English, followed by 13 in York. I was there for over a third of my life. I had no idea I'd stay so long.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in