plane ticket

A couple weeks ago my husband mentioned that he found a great deal on airfare online. I had my hopes up for days that I would be able to visit my family in the States sometime this Fall, which is earlier than anticipated (May, which makes it a year). When he told me that it actually would not work out because of our financial situation at the moment, I was left very upset. I feel caged in, has anyone else felt that way? I am a PhD student and I look forward to the term starting up again in October; this summer I have been studying alone and spending many hours by myself. I see friends every week or so, but the days are lonely. I also look forward to getting my loan money so I can book a plane ticket if I would like. What are some ways of keeping busy, especially when the weather is bad? Has anyone else had their hopes up about visiting family only to be let down?

Thanks.

I'm not doing my PhD now - I finished a few years ago, but I definitely know what you're talking about.

DH is finishing his up (so unemployed!), I'm here trying to temp/find work, but we're perpetually poor, unable to go out for meals etc. Most of our friends have finished up and left Swansea, so we're fairly lonely as well. We're flying home for thanksgiving but ONLY because my sister has generously decided to foot the bill. It absolutely sucks. We both feel trapped on a regular basis, and keeping our chins up and thinking positive is really hard.

Welshgirl's moan is over! 

The summer is almost over, and you'll soon be back in the swing of things. And once you're solvent, things will seem better as well.

Where are you? What's your PhD on?

Thanks for the comment, welshgirl. I believe you commented on my intro post (I mentioned my PhD being on inter-ethnic relationships in Britain and that I am studying at Lancaster uni); it is nice to hear from you again. Sometimes it's just nice to know that other people can sympathise. It is good that you have something to look forward to in terms of visiting. I also am grateful that there are better things to come. :-)

Sorry, I thought maybe, but wasn't sure!

Keep in mind that Lancaster isn't the most uplifting of places either! Maybe try going to the sea side or the country for a break

Lancaster is much nicer once one discovers the canal and Williamson park. However, I must admit that it is nice how easy it is to get on the train and explore some beautiful areas of the lake district.

What places did you have in mind? To be honest, I think Lancaster is the best place I have ever lived in, but I am definitely keen to explore more of the UK.