Election Day from Spain

United States politics definitely isn't on the short list of topics that I thought I'd be writing about on here, but it feels a bit ignorant of me to not at least mention such a big election.

Honestly, words fail to convey the sadness, disappointment, anger, and utter disbelief that 73 million Americans decided to be complicit with Trump's felonies, sexual assault, racism, trans/homophobia, impeachment, and insurrection. Like???? I actually have no idea how people can listen to the way he speaks or interacts with people and have that resonate with them. Over the past few days, I’ve shed a lot of tears for my loved ones who have already faced the impact of his rhetoric, policies, and Supreme Court nominations and for my fear of the future. 

Eating our feelings with cheese fries on November 5th

On election day, I actually went to bed hopeful that America would elect a highly qualified and poised African American/Asian American woman as the first female president. Instead, I was mortified to see the news of Trump's reelection and started thinking about how these results affect my future and our plans for our time abroad. What worries me the most (amongst a gazillion other things) right now is the thought of trying to start and raise a family in a state that doesn't value the life of the mother... or women in general. Discussions about this and our other fears has really made Kevin and I more open to the idea of extending our timeline abroad.

Taking long walks and having long talks has helped, but turns out you can still be depressed and anxious about election results despite living in a beautiful city on the other side of the world. 

A few photos from walks around town

Something that has somehow has made these election results feel slightly less heavy, is talking/texting with friends and family who share similar sentiments. And even though I thought "doom-scrolling" might do more harm than good, it's actually been uplifting to see people in my circles share how they're feeling and show solidarity. Maybe posting this will make things feel a little lighter too. The fight continues (even from Spain)...

Un abrazo, 

Allison