Remembering the starting line

In trying to get caught back up in my FS blog reading, I came across a couple blogs which made me think back to when we got started. Though we've only been a part of the FS family for over a year, it's easy to forget the roller coaster ride involved to finally get to work day 1, the official email address or instructions on how to report to training. I've reread my first post a million times and get butterflies every time.

Though we've only been in a short time compared to many, it's already been an adventure. We miss many things about our comfortable life "back home", but continue to anticipate new posts, new vacations and new homes we'll encounter in the next however many years. We continue to feel it was the right choice for our family.

So to those that are waiting, wanting or about to embark on life in the Foreign Service ~ EMBRACE & ENJOY the journey! It is a wild, fun ride. And it's an adrenaline rush that we rarely catch in adult life. Remember to communicate with your family and spouse, thoroughly and often, especially sharing during the extra-exciting orientation time. They too are likely gnawing at the bit for information and stories. Take advantage of the housing (sometimes great, usually free), the training and the hands that reach out to offer a pull out of the sand when you're stuck. And surely take advantage of the genuine hospitality that meets you around each turn... they've been in the same place you're standing and "get it".

And thanks... for reminding all of us how exciting the starting line of this run came be! On your marks!