Be still my heart.
One of my clinging to hope activities was to periodically check the UPS tracking number for the return of my passport on the off chance that UKVI returned it without notifying me. And wouldn’t you know it? That’s almost exactly what happened. On Friday (March 17th), the tracking suddenly listed my passport as en route. UKVI finally got around to emailing me on Sunday to inform me that my visa application was successful and that I will have a 90-day window to enter the UK after March 30th. Finally! The visa is just a big sticker in my passport that covers my entry. The REAL document to keep me safe and grounded in the UK is actually my BPR (biometric residence permit), which I will have to collect from a certain post office within two weeks of arriving. It will have my approved residence dates (arrival until December 2025), my healthcare number, and such. Great. I couldn’t be more relieved to finally have this approval.
Airline prices have skyrocketed in the last year. I purchased my ticket today for the one tiny window in April when I wouldn’t have to pay over $3k for a one-way flight. But it’s taken care of, and I sent the information to my partner so he can meet me at the airport.
The countdown to going home commences! I have a hefty to-do list that I had the forethought to make quite some time ago, so there will be no confused or panicked flailing as my date of departure creeps closer. I’m heading to my primary care physician today for a checkup and to get medical records and prescription information so my transition into the UK’s healthcare system goes as smoothly as possible.
I really cannot emphasize how relieved and excited I am. I will try to savor this transition time. Happy New Moon and blessed belated Vernal Equinox! Spring has delivered bountiful gifts.
Magical Musings 