Congratulations to ME!! After 5 years- my work permit was about to run out- so it was either apply to stay or go. Well, not up for another big life change- and still so much to do and see on this side of the pond.SO - I applied for what is called " Indefinite Leave to Remain".This is a precurser to citizenship (which I will apply for next year- no worries- don't have to give up US status). The Leave to Remain (LTR) allows me to live here- forever hypothetically- come and go , and work in whatever field I want (whereas my work permit was tied to my current employment).I am also eligible for benefits if necessary . As I plan to stay til retirement and pick up another little pension here- I probably will not be changing jobs- but could do something part-time now or later. When I get CITIZENSHIP- then the world opens up! I can live and work anywhere in the EU. France continues to call me... but- when I do retire (6-7 yrs- ugh) I think I will throw everything in storage- do a grand finale tour of US first- see everyone and places I haven't been- then maybe do the same in Europe and England.THEN decide where my dollars and pounds go the farthest and where I most want to settle.Or at least stay awhile....can always sample several countries. It's expensive now to obtain the LTR and citizenship (£1200+ each) so I will be on an austerity budget awhile.But with couch surfing-- I may still get out to some places here or abroad.It is so cheap to fly and stay so many places in Europe from here!! Thinking about a short trip to Malta this Spring (have a same age couchsurfing host I've been in contact with)-= a friend may take me to Italy- my girlfriend in Paris-- and the kids may come out this fall. And I continue to try to hook up with sailors-if only for day sails!!!But even if I stay in England this year- I haven't totally tapped out London yet- so always something to do if I get off my butt and brave the rain:) - and lovely places only a train ride or drive away. So do come visit- before I take off on the road!!
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