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Three Months In: Hitting the Wall

  • Writer: Lois Mills
    Lois Mills
  • May 25
  • 2 min read

Turns out, everyone was right.

At nearly the three-month mark in my Paris journey, I’ve officially hit the wall—that moment so many expats warned me about. And I have to admit: they weren’t wrong.



An elegant, gold-trimmed dining room with red velvet chairs and white tablecloths set for a formal luncheon. A massive tapestry of a regal scene covers one wall, and guests are seated or mingling as servers prepare the tables.
A stunning luncheon with the American Club of Paris. Not a bad place to reflect on life abroad.


Up until now, everything was new, exciting, a whirlwind of adjustment and discovery. But lately, it’s felt a bit more…real. The honeymoon phase is over. I’ve found myself wondering, What am I doing here? and Is this really my life now? And the answer, of course, is yes.


But don’t worry—I’m not packing my bags.


The truth is, life here has become routine. I walk more, I frequent the same markets, and I’ve carved out small rituals like getting my hair and nails done on certain days. I haven’t quite created a social circle yet, but I’m starting to push myself to venture out more.


This past week, I attended a luncheon, visited the incredible American Library (yes, I’ll be joining their book clubs come fall!), and even peeked into a gallery opening with the American Club of Paris. I'm putting myself out there—step by step—and it’s making a difference.



The Eiffel Tower rises behind the historic American Library in Paris, nestled among elegant Haussmann-style buildings. A quiet street scene captures the blend of literary legacy and iconic French beauty.
The view just outside the American Library in Paris—where books and the Eiffel Tower share the same breathtaking block.


There’s a lot more I share in this week’s episode, including an encounter with a fellow American at a café that left me both amused and a little reflective. I also talk about the reality of living with less stuff, less space, and sometimes, less certainty—but also more sunlight, more walking, and slowly, more courage.


🖱️ Want the full story? Watch the latest episode on YouTube here:


Lois Mills, host of Silver and Sensational, reflects on hitting the “three-month wall” of expat life in Paris. With a French flag backdrop and a candid expression, this thumbnail sets the tone for her honest, humorous take on adjusting to reality abroad. Watch the full episode now on YouTube.

(And don't forget to hit subscribe while you're there!)


🤍, Lois

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