Can't say that I disagree with you on much of anything - although perhaps because I was born and raised in the US, I tend to "understand" it a bit more (or "tolerate" it - not sure which). I had big immigration problems when I came to France, and didn't do so well here for quite a while, so I can probably match you obnoxious trait for obnoxious trait with the French. But ultimately I've come to prefer how things are here in Europe, and I now carry a French passport.

But when you do get back to Europe, I'd be very interested to hear your reactions to your return. There's that saying that "you can't go home again" and I think it's true. Europe has changed in the however-many years since you've been gone, and it won't be quite like you remember it. I fully acknowledge that I can't go back to live in the US again - because I've changed and because the US has changed. But I still enjoy my visits back there - in part to stock up on a few cherished items that are hard to find here in Europe (I guess we're all products of our culture ), and in part to see a few specific people I've kept in touch with over the years.

Good luck in your job search. I know from experience that it isn't easy for a US citizen to find a job in Europe - and that there isn't normally a "right" of return based on marriage to a local national. Get ready for some serious immigration hassle. But it is certainly do-able, provided your spouse speaks the local language. And do keep us informed of your progress.