As I've said before (and can probably never say enough) the hardest part of "starting over" is rebuilding the social networks and support system I'm used to having in the US. I've felt very dependent on the generosity of relative strangers as I've tried to rebuild my social circles, saying "yes" to most opportunities that come my way - trying to find my "crowd" in Perth.
Lucky for me, everyone whom I've encountered in Perth has been very kind; I've been very fortunate to meet some wonderful people and experience the city from a variety of perspectives.
Brace yourselves: I've been out on a few "girls' nights", one of which even included nail polish. I'm also finally meeting enough people to go to dinner or see a movie any night of the week. Even though Perth is a full-blown city, its residents consider it to operate on "small-town mentality", so socializing with co-workers is generally not the best idea. I can't help but laugh, now that I think about it... Imagine moving to a new city/country/continent for a new job, and then try to create a social life that is not connected to your work. It's been long in coming, but so far rewarding. I've made friends with people in different departments within the school, but also outside of the campus - a huge accomplishment!
Finally feeling some progress in my social life has relieved some of the stress and homesickness. Of course, I know that friends here will never take the place of what's at home, but I have to remind myself not to limit or label these relationships as temporary, even if I consider my residence in Perth to be temporary. That was my greatest mistake in Paris - withholding myself emotionally from forming deep friendships. If anything, it is the friendships I've forged so far that have made this transition easier as time progresses.
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