02/06/2026
Eva officially has her U.S. passport! 🇺🇸
As excited as I am about the passport itself, this moment has me reflecting on what an interesting journey motherhood has been so far.
Even though I’ve lived in Iceland for almost 10 years, I’m still raising a child in a culture that I didn’t grow up in. Having a daughter who is both American and Icelandic adds another layer to that experience. I speak English to her, while her dad and his family speak Icelandic to her, and it’s fascinating to watch these two worlds come together through her.
This summer, we’ll be taking her to the United States so she can meet more of her American family, including my grandmother, who is 96 years old. The thought of those two meeting makes my heart so happy.
One of the unexpected gifts of becoming a parent has been seeing the world, and even Iceland, through Eva’s eyes. Every month seems to bring a new perspective, a new lesson, and a new appreciation for things I might otherwise overlook. I’m incredibly grateful for the support we have, the experiences we’re able to share with her, and the opportunity to help her grow up connected to both sides of her heritage.
Also, a huge thank you to the staff at the U.S. Embassy. They were so kind, helpful, and welcoming throughout the passport process. As a first-time mom, I definitely learned a few things that would have made the process easier had I known them beforehand, but overall it was a smooth experience and I’m very grateful for all of their help.
For those of you who are raising children between cultures, or parenting in a culture different from the one you grew up in, I would love to hear from you. What advice would you give? What has helped your family navigate that experience?
I’m learning as I go, and I’d love to hear your thoughts.
