All training aspects of Chris's position fall far from the standard guidelines of 90% of the Foreign Service. His job has a lot of different training locations (and acronyms) that come along with it. The mass majority of his classmates are young with no baggage. We are... well... old---er with baggage. Getting all the specifics on what is allowed or not allowed, or should I say paid or not paid, takes some research and re-verification.
After much deliberation, we have decided to reside together again come (around) April 1st. By the time we take into account preschool, flights home every 6-8 weeks and extra expenses we are both incurring, it just really doesn't make sense to be apart for the minute amount of money we might save if I keep working in IL. And though the house is not yet sold, we are biting the bullet and packing up our lives. It would happen by late May anyway, so we might as well jump in now.
It didn't make good sense to join Chris before now really, as he's been hopping from place to place. And honestly, though it's hard to be apart, he needs this time to concentrate on the job at hand. It' a big job. But in a few weeks, things will have settled a little. We are all looking forward to getting back to "living". In our lives, there are only really 3 necessary components. The rest works itself out.
And I'd also like to learn my way around Washington D.C. a little bit. In years to come our path will likely cross through there again. The idea of the occasional FS related playdate or draining seasoned trailing spouses for knowledge is also enticing.
Lots of specifics to work out with HR and Logistics, but we'll wade through. And after giving notice to work (officially this time), I'll have about 2 hopefully uninterupted weeks to package our world and ship it off, not to likely be seen for another few months. Hopefully the house and everything else will fall into place. If not, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. I know we'll all be a happier bunch just being under the same roof.
Stay tuned!
Yea! I had a feeling this was coming, and so glad you guys will be back together soon! If you need any DC/VA tips/advice, let me know. Don't forget the spouse group meetings, there will probably be at least two before you head to Miami.
ReplyDeleteSo happy for you guys!
The time that I had with seasoned State wives when I was in DC was nothing- NOTHING - short of priceless.
ReplyDeleteI attached myself to them like catfish. I went to every wife meeting. I soaked up their knowledge and life experiences like a hungry sponge.
Yes, being in DC while you can is worth it, just for that! But also, it's so hard to be apart.
Hugs to you!
I think that being together is so important. I feel like we can handle anything if we are together as a family.
ReplyDeleteAlso, thanks for your comment on my blog. I enjoyed the photos you took on your nature walk. It is important to keep hold of "self" and remember what we, as women, have as goals.
Best,
Emily
I stayed behind during the initial training so my kids could finish up the school year. I still think it was a good decision but it was hard adn I was very glad to be back together as a whole family. DC is fun to explore. I have only been there short periods of time but the kids love exploring the parks and museums. There is always something to do and thankfully all the Smithsonians are FREE!
ReplyDeleteWe're old with baggage too ! Joining FS this month in the 152nd A100. See ? YOu're not alone. We sold our house, quit jobs and moved to our family's home (aahhh) a year ago thinking it couldn't possibly take this long to get the invite. Ha. 2 boys in tow (10 & 13).
ReplyDelete