We took advantage of the day off to go to the Emirates National Auto Museum, about 60 km outside the city. It was the first time we left the city limits.
There is more sky than anything here. This place is so expansive with flat lands and sand with scrub in all directions. With all that space as a backdrop, everything seems kind of small. It is certainly quite different from the rolling hills of home.
The roads are great paved roads, several lanes and all straight. The locals drive about 100 miles per hour and that is no exaggeration. It is a scary thing to be driving along at a good clip and all of a sudden your whole car shakes from the person who just rocketed by you at double your speed. It is downright freaky.
The museum was interesting and we were the only visitors, so we had the whole place to ourselves. It is really a private collection that the owner allows people to view at their leisure. There are no set hours that I can tell. You just show up and they let you in.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas to everyone back home and our new friends scattered around the globe!
This Christmas may have been without a tree, lights and a lot of giftwrap, but it was nonetheless enjoyable. We cooked and prepared food on Christmas Eve-the house smelled so good with all the home cooking. On Christmas Day we invited a colleague from down the street to join us for a huge Christmas dinner.
My Butterball was excellent, green bean casserole made with fresh green beans, my favorite potato au gratin, banana nut bread and a first-caramel pie. It was exactly what Christmas is supposed to be.
Tennessee Christmas is rarely a white one, it is usually just dreary and cooler. Would you believe it? Christmas Eve was dreary all day, with dense fog in the morning; and unusually cool for UAE. Felt almost like home.
I sincerely hope that everyone else had a fantastic Christmas. Looking forward to a grand new year.
This Christmas may have been without a tree, lights and a lot of giftwrap, but it was nonetheless enjoyable. We cooked and prepared food on Christmas Eve-the house smelled so good with all the home cooking. On Christmas Day we invited a colleague from down the street to join us for a huge Christmas dinner.
My Butterball was excellent, green bean casserole made with fresh green beans, my favorite potato au gratin, banana nut bread and a first-caramel pie. It was exactly what Christmas is supposed to be.
Tennessee Christmas is rarely a white one, it is usually just dreary and cooler. Would you believe it? Christmas Eve was dreary all day, with dense fog in the morning; and unusually cool for UAE. Felt almost like home.
I sincerely hope that everyone else had a fantastic Christmas. Looking forward to a grand new year.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Climbing the Ladder
Shockingly, after having been in my job for less than a month, I was asked to come work in the "front office" for a day. It was a huge honor for me to be working with the Deputy Chief of Mission and the Ambassador. The front office is certainly NOT in the front of the embassy, it is one of the harder areas to access. It is a small milestone, but I celebrate every one.
The two gentlemen impressed me as being quite professional and even-tempered. The DCM actually spends time mentoring the untenured officers and specialists, offering his experience and career advice. I hope to be tenured by the end of 2010, but you can bet I will be listening closely to him and taking advantage of every opportunity.
My boss was ribbing me about "already moving up the corporate ladder," which is a joke in and of itself inside a bureaucracy.
The two gentlemen impressed me as being quite professional and even-tempered. The DCM actually spends time mentoring the untenured officers and specialists, offering his experience and career advice. I hope to be tenured by the end of 2010, but you can bet I will be listening closely to him and taking advantage of every opportunity.
My boss was ribbing me about "already moving up the corporate ladder," which is a joke in and of itself inside a bureaucracy.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
We have Internet
We got internet today, how cool is that. We are still working out the bugs, but very excited...of course, how appropriate that there is a massive outage in the Middle East due to 3 of 4 submarine cables being cut. I guess I am just fascinated by the irony of life.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Schnauzer Cut
Our little guy just had a check up with a local vet and the doc was very impressed by what good shape he is in for a 15 year old. He was also groomed. When I called to make the appointment I wasn't sure that they knew what a schnauzer was supposed to look like, so sent photos as they requested. I found some great photos of championship schnauzers and the typical cut. I also added considerable notes about caring for my little guy. I think I went overboard. The staff were terrified of our response. They all seemed to hold their breath when they presented him. But we were very happy!! The doc admitted to holding the pictures up to him and asking, "Is this you!?!"
Monday, December 8, 2008
Getting Settled In
We’ve been here about 10 days. I would have enjoyed blogging from day one, but you are so exhausted and overwhelmed that it is often all you can do to get up, stay awake and do your job, and then try to sleep at night when your body tells you it is daytime.
The first morning I woke to realize that none of my hair appliances would plug into the transformers. I knew the voltage was different, but didn’t even consider the plug shapes. So not only did the hairdryer not work, but the alarm clock is no more than a paperweight. Time to get battery and wind up clocks.
We had been picked up at the airport by my boss (the flight was 19 hours-so much for first impressions), driven thru the darkness and delivered to our new home at midnight. The house was furnished with all the basics, including dishes, a coffee pot and one towel each. Of course there is no TV, no internet. We do have a phone, but don’t know anyone to call and have no idea of how to call overseas to family at home. Bet you don’t know either!
Worst of all we had no wheels!! It is definitely a different feeling being half way around the world from anyone you know, out of contact, have no idea where you are and no way to get around. Who do you call in an emergency? Where do you go to get food?
But one really great thing about being in the Foreign Service is that you always have compatriots, wherever you go. Not only did my boss take great care in making sure we were settling in, but a sponsor volunteered to help us adjust to our new surroundings. She shopped for us, so there were groceries in the house. She made the bed and supplied us with soap and coffee. She showed us around town and took us to dinner with friends. Within 24 hours we began to feel normal, like we’d been here much longer.
By the way, our sponsor is from Chattanooga. One of the most striking things she told me is that she has traveled the world and never tried to hide her southern accent. I think that I will do the same. I’m proud of where I’m from, and moreover the stereotype of uneducated southerners needs to be dispelled. Cuz' it just ain’t so.
The first morning I woke to realize that none of my hair appliances would plug into the transformers. I knew the voltage was different, but didn’t even consider the plug shapes. So not only did the hairdryer not work, but the alarm clock is no more than a paperweight. Time to get battery and wind up clocks.
We had been picked up at the airport by my boss (the flight was 19 hours-so much for first impressions), driven thru the darkness and delivered to our new home at midnight. The house was furnished with all the basics, including dishes, a coffee pot and one towel each. Of course there is no TV, no internet. We do have a phone, but don’t know anyone to call and have no idea of how to call overseas to family at home. Bet you don’t know either!
Worst of all we had no wheels!! It is definitely a different feeling being half way around the world from anyone you know, out of contact, have no idea where you are and no way to get around. Who do you call in an emergency? Where do you go to get food?
But one really great thing about being in the Foreign Service is that you always have compatriots, wherever you go. Not only did my boss take great care in making sure we were settling in, but a sponsor volunteered to help us adjust to our new surroundings. She shopped for us, so there were groceries in the house. She made the bed and supplied us with soap and coffee. She showed us around town and took us to dinner with friends. Within 24 hours we began to feel normal, like we’d been here much longer.
By the way, our sponsor is from Chattanooga. One of the most striking things she told me is that she has traveled the world and never tried to hide her southern accent. I think that I will do the same. I’m proud of where I’m from, and moreover the stereotype of uneducated southerners needs to be dispelled. Cuz' it just ain’t so.
The Trip to Abu Dhabi
Having never been on an international flight, I could only hope that it was more comfortable than the many flights I had on Southwest to Houston. Not really much improvement. The seats were the same: uncomfortable, hard and small. The food and the entertainment were much better.
During our roughly 20 hours of travel I watched 5 movies on the little 8” screen on the back of the seat in front of me, listened to some music and slept fitfully. Finn Sisu was sick several days before departure so his trip was particularly stressful. The first 8 hours were filled with strong turbulence. By the time we got to Schipol in Amsterdam we were both so ready to touch solid ground.
The hustle off the plane is a familiar experience, we’ve all done at least a few times. But when we reached the concourse we realized just how lost we were. Schipol is one of the largest airports in the world. It can easily take 30-40 minutes to walk from one end to the other-and that is if you know where you are going. We weren’t sure which way the main terminal was or how far away. We had “reservations” at a Yotel (more below) but saw no signs for it. What if it was at the other end?!
About 40 minutes later after asking several staff and retracing half our steps we found the Yotel. Our layover was for 5 ½ hours, I wanted to make the most of the time. Yotel (click here) is a retail space inside the terminal, inside the security zones, that provides “cabins” of about 10 square meters. The cabin is nothing more than a private space with TV, a bed and a full bath. For 3 full hours I slept – stretched out and on a flat surface. What a real treat. Finn Sisu got a little rest, but I’m not sure sleep is what he would call it.
Luckily our departure gate was 20 yards away. We set off on the second leg. It was a considerably smoother flight, but we had a lady pilot so what do you expect? J As I said before the food was good. It wasn’t excellent, but it was a far cry from paying for stale peanuts. The wine and juice were free. The meals were hot and actually pretty tasty with tender chicken in a mustard sauce, rice and couscous. The flight attendants handed out hot moist towels to wipe your face, to freshen up.
I was glad that the lighting was set to nighttime levels during both flights. Most passengers found empty seats and spread out to relax, making for a quiet flight. We did not have one screaming child, thank goodness.
I wish I were a poet and could say something elegant about the experience of rushing headlong into time (traveling east to meet the sun), but that is about as poetic as I can muster. It was a unique experience to see the sunrise twice in one day.
During our roughly 20 hours of travel I watched 5 movies on the little 8” screen on the back of the seat in front of me, listened to some music and slept fitfully. Finn Sisu was sick several days before departure so his trip was particularly stressful. The first 8 hours were filled with strong turbulence. By the time we got to Schipol in Amsterdam we were both so ready to touch solid ground.
The hustle off the plane is a familiar experience, we’ve all done at least a few times. But when we reached the concourse we realized just how lost we were. Schipol is one of the largest airports in the world. It can easily take 30-40 minutes to walk from one end to the other-and that is if you know where you are going. We weren’t sure which way the main terminal was or how far away. We had “reservations” at a Yotel (more below) but saw no signs for it. What if it was at the other end?!
About 40 minutes later after asking several staff and retracing half our steps we found the Yotel. Our layover was for 5 ½ hours, I wanted to make the most of the time. Yotel (click here) is a retail space inside the terminal, inside the security zones, that provides “cabins” of about 10 square meters. The cabin is nothing more than a private space with TV, a bed and a full bath. For 3 full hours I slept – stretched out and on a flat surface. What a real treat. Finn Sisu got a little rest, but I’m not sure sleep is what he would call it.
Luckily our departure gate was 20 yards away. We set off on the second leg. It was a considerably smoother flight, but we had a lady pilot so what do you expect? J As I said before the food was good. It wasn’t excellent, but it was a far cry from paying for stale peanuts. The wine and juice were free. The meals were hot and actually pretty tasty with tender chicken in a mustard sauce, rice and couscous. The flight attendants handed out hot moist towels to wipe your face, to freshen up.
I was glad that the lighting was set to nighttime levels during both flights. Most passengers found empty seats and spread out to relax, making for a quiet flight. We did not have one screaming child, thank goodness.
I wish I were a poet and could say something elegant about the experience of rushing headlong into time (traveling east to meet the sun), but that is about as poetic as I can muster. It was a unique experience to see the sunrise twice in one day.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
We Arrived
We did arrive actually about a 9 days ago. I just wanted to drop a note here to let you know that we are safe, and we are well.
We do not currently have internet or TV, so we do feel a bit cut off from the world. We hope to have internet access in a week or so. I will continue to blog at that time.
In the meantime, we are driving around and exploring our new city.
We do not currently have internet or TV, so we do feel a bit cut off from the world. We hope to have internet access in a week or so. I will continue to blog at that time.
In the meantime, we are driving around and exploring our new city.
Friday, November 21, 2008
The whole family is going to Abu Dhabi
Everybody is finally cleared to travel!!!
The dog got his VISA, actually his import permit. And the humans all have full clearances. The tickets are even paid for!
We leave on Sunday evening from Dulles; trek thru Amsterdam and onto Abu Dhabi by 11:00 p.m on Monday evening. For family in the states that will be about 1 or 2 in the afternoon on Monday.
We got our vehicle shipped home to family. It was paid for and we would never get much money out of selling it. Plus when we do come back to the states for a month at a time, we will need something to drive.
What was left of our possessions was whisked away this week. We have only what we can carry on the plane.
I cannot believe it is almost here and we are actually almost ready.
The dog got his VISA, actually his import permit. And the humans all have full clearances. The tickets are even paid for!
We leave on Sunday evening from Dulles; trek thru Amsterdam and onto Abu Dhabi by 11:00 p.m on Monday evening. For family in the states that will be about 1 or 2 in the afternoon on Monday.
We got our vehicle shipped home to family. It was paid for and we would never get much money out of selling it. Plus when we do come back to the states for a month at a time, we will need something to drive.
What was left of our possessions was whisked away this week. We have only what we can carry on the plane.
I cannot believe it is almost here and we are actually almost ready.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Contingencies
It is so very nerve-wracking to go thru all the logistics. There's vehicles to deal with, the possessions you have with you, possessions already in storage, medical clearances, tickets and pet shipping.
Pet shipping is the hardest one right now. Even though I planned and I requested information from my post about how to do it, no one ever really got around to it. When they finally did there simply is not enough time. Our little guy had to have a shot that he has never had before. We just got it on Nov 13, but the catch is that the shot must be at least 4 weeks old on the day he arrives in the UAE-do the math. In all honesty there is a second shot in the series that he should have 2 weeks after the first. More bad math.
I can work with contingency plans and uncertainties, but the many contingencies we are working on right now are way outside my comfort zone.
Now is when you depend on the Lord that everything will work out.
Pet shipping is the hardest one right now. Even though I planned and I requested information from my post about how to do it, no one ever really got around to it. When they finally did there simply is not enough time. Our little guy had to have a shot that he has never had before. We just got it on Nov 13, but the catch is that the shot must be at least 4 weeks old on the day he arrives in the UAE-do the math. In all honesty there is a second shot in the series that he should have 2 weeks after the first. More bad math.
I can work with contingency plans and uncertainties, but the many contingencies we are working on right now are way outside my comfort zone.
Now is when you depend on the Lord that everything will work out.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Playful Pit Puppy
We took Spanky for a grooming last weekend. He always comes out so wound up, full of vim and vigor! You would never know he was 15 by watching him run to the nearest green spot.
I had to stand in the cashier line to pay for his grooming and as is the norm, all the people stood with nary an acknowledgement of one another. There was one who showed attention to us. It was a full grown pit bull puppy, straining at the end of his leash for a sniff. The owner spoke to me quickly, "He just wants to play."
You know me-I'll talk to anybody. It was funny that I was the one doing all the talking, but then maybe they are just shy. The puppy was so very playful and so much larger than my petite miniature schnauzer. He literally put his head on the floor and his muzzle right under my little guy's chest in inviting submission, his long legs splayed in all four directions.
I said, "It jus' don' get no cuter than that!!" Still not one word from any of the many people surrounding me. Guess I didn't really wow them with my southern charm, I might even have frightened them. Hmmm.
I had to stand in the cashier line to pay for his grooming and as is the norm, all the people stood with nary an acknowledgement of one another. There was one who showed attention to us. It was a full grown pit bull puppy, straining at the end of his leash for a sniff. The owner spoke to me quickly, "He just wants to play."
You know me-I'll talk to anybody. It was funny that I was the one doing all the talking, but then maybe they are just shy. The puppy was so very playful and so much larger than my petite miniature schnauzer. He literally put his head on the floor and his muzzle right under my little guy's chest in inviting submission, his long legs splayed in all four directions.
I said, "It jus' don' get no cuter than that!!" Still not one word from any of the many people surrounding me. Guess I didn't really wow them with my southern charm, I might even have frightened them. Hmmm.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Musical Chairs
Pollster Frank Luntz says the GOP needs to gain the support of more independents if they want to win elections.
But I think I am more inclined to agree with Rush, who said this week that
I wonder if there were more than a few hard core conservatives who decided against casting a ballot for the man who proudly sponsored legislation to quash speech with McCain Feingold; refused to support tax cuts; supported amnesty for those who entered our borders illegally; was at the forefront of the bailout; and happily joins Democrats to accomplish THEIR goals. Maybe there was a large group that simply sat this one out.
As the power brokers of the GOP meet this week to begin discussing the direction of the party and who the "standard bearer" should be, as they all jockey for position and point fingers, I am quite certain that more than a few will propose that the Republican Party jettison the dragging weight of the right wingers, the "anti-intellectuals" like Sarah Palin and those evangelicals who simply won't change their values.
The so called anti-intellectuals are the people who value common sense, character, moral behavior, pure motives and hard work. Those who consider themselves the intellectuals among us appear to value their own station in life, money, power and elitism above all else. They have very little respect for anyone deemed to be boorish, of improper standing or simply the unwashed masses.
Washington Post article. As McCain returns to his cushy seat as a senator and the power brokers play musical chairs, it seems like a win-win for everyone. Pelosi and Reid gear up for an even more partisan Congress, and Obama picks the members of his new administration-its like Christmas! Wait...what did Jack and Jill get? Oh, yeah, the bill.
But I think I am more inclined to agree with Rush, who said this week that
"McCain's whole campaign was a concession speech." He also noted that if
Republicans wanted to win elections, they should not put so-called "moderates"
on the ballot." The conservative movement does not need to be rebuilt," he
said. "We had some people abandon the conservative movement, and they need to be abandoned."
I wonder if there were more than a few hard core conservatives who decided against casting a ballot for the man who proudly sponsored legislation to quash speech with McCain Feingold; refused to support tax cuts; supported amnesty for those who entered our borders illegally; was at the forefront of the bailout; and happily joins Democrats to accomplish THEIR goals. Maybe there was a large group that simply sat this one out.
As the power brokers of the GOP meet this week to begin discussing the direction of the party and who the "standard bearer" should be, as they all jockey for position and point fingers, I am quite certain that more than a few will propose that the Republican Party jettison the dragging weight of the right wingers, the "anti-intellectuals" like Sarah Palin and those evangelicals who simply won't change their values.
The so called anti-intellectuals are the people who value common sense, character, moral behavior, pure motives and hard work. Those who consider themselves the intellectuals among us appear to value their own station in life, money, power and elitism above all else. They have very little respect for anyone deemed to be boorish, of improper standing or simply the unwashed masses.
Washington Post article. As McCain returns to his cushy seat as a senator and the power brokers play musical chairs, it seems like a win-win for everyone. Pelosi and Reid gear up for an even more partisan Congress, and Obama picks the members of his new administration-its like Christmas! Wait...what did Jack and Jill get? Oh, yeah, the bill.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Baby Culture Shock
Thanks for reading my blog! I got a compliment today and it really meant a lot - I wasn't at all sure anyone was reading this.
Culture shock can happen anytime you change your surroundings. The bigger the changes the longer the process of excitement, disillusionment and adjustment. Conversely, if the change is minor the process can be quite fast.
I admit to having a little culture shock. The people, the values and overall culture are pretty different here. The adjustment to it is aggravated by the notion that this is my country, my people, I should be the same as them. Not so. JFK is attributed as saying that DC has all the charm of the North and all the efficiency of the South. I'd say that about sums it up.
I met a lady from Beirut, Lebanon and found that we had considerable commonalities. I came away with tears after talking with her because she felt like a touch of home. Civilized, polished and warm.
I do not mean to be negative, but I'm pretty stressed. Time is running out and the list of things I have to do seem to hinge on something else, that just hasn't happened yet.
On a better note: we have received word of our housing in Abu Dhabi. We will have a 2 story townhouse in a gated community. I don't know how many bedrooms, but I did see the 3 different floor plans and the smallest one is 2600 square feet, with maid's quarters. :) I've never lived in anything so big!
Love you all and miss you something terrible!
Culture shock can happen anytime you change your surroundings. The bigger the changes the longer the process of excitement, disillusionment and adjustment. Conversely, if the change is minor the process can be quite fast.
I admit to having a little culture shock. The people, the values and overall culture are pretty different here. The adjustment to it is aggravated by the notion that this is my country, my people, I should be the same as them. Not so. JFK is attributed as saying that DC has all the charm of the North and all the efficiency of the South. I'd say that about sums it up.
I met a lady from Beirut, Lebanon and found that we had considerable commonalities. I came away with tears after talking with her because she felt like a touch of home. Civilized, polished and warm.
I do not mean to be negative, but I'm pretty stressed. Time is running out and the list of things I have to do seem to hinge on something else, that just hasn't happened yet.
On a better note: we have received word of our housing in Abu Dhabi. We will have a 2 story townhouse in a gated community. I don't know how many bedrooms, but I did see the 3 different floor plans and the smallest one is 2600 square feet, with maid's quarters. :) I've never lived in anything so big!
Love you all and miss you something terrible!
Monday, November 3, 2008
More MEPI, Palin and Well Wishes
You may have noticed my absence here. It has been a...long week, involving doctors and even a night in the hospital - but we're all good now!
It is hard to comprehend that we leave 3 weeks from today. Sometimes it seems like it is never going to get here, and other times it seems to have happened so fast. We will be soon picking the boxes that we want shipped overseas for us. I'm looking forward to having my own cookware, music and decorations. Funny how you miss the simple things.
I did spend a little bit of time with the Washington Office of MEPI and learned a considerable more about its mission. USAID spends American dollars to build infrastructure, to teach about democracy and how to hold an election. But USAID is limited to working in underdeveloped [read poor] countries. Much of the Near and Middle East are not underdeveloped, but someone saw the need to encourage democratic activities like transparency of government by broadcasting live meetings; education in running a business for women; and translating English language children's books. Thus MEPI was formed. There is an office in Tunis and my office in Abu Dhabi just opened a couple of years ago.
You know that I am a very political person, but you've heard bloody little about the Presidential Campaign from me. I suppose disappointed could describe how I feel about it. I was energized when Sarah Palin was introduced as the VP. I now hear rumors that if McCain loses, they plan to lay blame at Palin's feet. I have heard her called a rogue candidate-by McCain's people. Very bad idea. Palin strikes a chord with people who have all but given up on the Republican Party. Her plain spoken demeanor is extremely refreshing and her words strike the target.
I could ramble on too long, but I just wanted to let you know that I'm still on the face of the earth and waiting anxiously for Tuesday's results.
P.S. Buck and family, we are wishing you well.
It is hard to comprehend that we leave 3 weeks from today. Sometimes it seems like it is never going to get here, and other times it seems to have happened so fast. We will be soon picking the boxes that we want shipped overseas for us. I'm looking forward to having my own cookware, music and decorations. Funny how you miss the simple things.
I did spend a little bit of time with the Washington Office of MEPI and learned a considerable more about its mission. USAID spends American dollars to build infrastructure, to teach about democracy and how to hold an election. But USAID is limited to working in underdeveloped [read poor] countries. Much of the Near and Middle East are not underdeveloped, but someone saw the need to encourage democratic activities like transparency of government by broadcasting live meetings; education in running a business for women; and translating English language children's books. Thus MEPI was formed. There is an office in Tunis and my office in Abu Dhabi just opened a couple of years ago.
You know that I am a very political person, but you've heard bloody little about the Presidential Campaign from me. I suppose disappointed could describe how I feel about it. I was energized when Sarah Palin was introduced as the VP. I now hear rumors that if McCain loses, they plan to lay blame at Palin's feet. I have heard her called a rogue candidate-by McCain's people. Very bad idea. Palin strikes a chord with people who have all but given up on the Republican Party. Her plain spoken demeanor is extremely refreshing and her words strike the target.
I could ramble on too long, but I just wanted to let you know that I'm still on the face of the earth and waiting anxiously for Tuesday's results.
P.S. Buck and family, we are wishing you well.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Kindness of Strangers
Lest you think that I am perpetually happy because I never encounter hardship, let me reassure you that I am as normal as anyone else. Still given the following story I am still happy just to be here!
With a rare afternoon free I needed to get our VISAs for entry into the UAE. It was11:15 and I need to get to the UAE Embassy before 1:00. I had to first go to the Main State Building in DC proper (I spend most of my time in Arlington) to get a special letter. I get the letter and try to get direction on how to fill out a form from the UAE that ask much more than just name and address. But alas, I find out the information on the letter is incorrect and it must be retyped. Well, I had to wait forty minutes for the secretary to come back because "no one else does that."
She comes back, corrects the letter and I'm off to find this embassy. All I have is an address. Half the elevators are shut down, but I finally find a bank that will take me down to street level and now I must find a taxi. I come from TN! I don't know how to hail a taxi!
I ask security and they point me to a taxi stand, Lots of taxis just sitting there waiting on me!! I tell the cabbie where I need to go and wait. I have no idea how long it will take or where I'm going. I think to myself that I should not even worry about HOW to get there, just ride. Honking horns, crazy stop signs and crooked roads, but low and behold the embassy is...THERE! I am so pleased that I will make the 1:00 deadline and look to pay the cabbie.
No Wallet. Look more, still no wallet. My blood pressure goes up, the street workers are yelling at the cabbie to move and I have absolutely no way under the sun to pay this man his $14 fee. Finally I pull out a business card with my email and cell phone number-I knew those things were important to have. I profusely promise to pay him, he agrees and gives me his name and address. I feel so badly that this man has no idea whatsoever if I will really pay him. Afterall, this is how he makes his living.
After he leaves, I'm standing in front of the locked gates of this Embassy, in the drizzling rain. I call my husband who has also just had an extremely frustrating morning. I can be of no help to him, I just want to know if my wallet is there. Yes. Well that is one situation settled. I am miles away from home and have no way to pay for transportation, but I cannot worry about that right now. I've got to get my VISA papers turned in within the next 15 minutes.
The guard lets me through the gate, but takes my Passport as it is the only identification I have. Half way through the process I have to go back to the guard and get my passport, which they will keep until my VISA arrives.
Finally, I walk out with my business concluded and wonder just how much rain we will get this afternoon. I start walking. I think I spotted a Metro Station a few blocks away-good thing I was looking. Sure am glad I wore my flats today. I could call my husband, but he's already had a bad day and it would take him 2 hours to map where I am and get here with all the traffic. I keep walking determined that this will not beat me.
At the train station I find that $2 will pay my fare back to a station where I can catch a free shuttle to FSI. So I start looking for friendly faces and begging for money. A couple of nice people do give me a dollar each after sizing me up. You know they have to be wondering if I am scamming them. Sometimes you simply must rely on the kindness of strangers.
It did all work out. I sent the cabbie an $11 tip and he called to say thank you. But you know these things happen from time to time. I'm still just happy to be here.
With a rare afternoon free I needed to get our VISAs for entry into the UAE. It was11:15 and I need to get to the UAE Embassy before 1:00. I had to first go to the Main State Building in DC proper (I spend most of my time in Arlington) to get a special letter. I get the letter and try to get direction on how to fill out a form from the UAE that ask much more than just name and address. But alas, I find out the information on the letter is incorrect and it must be retyped. Well, I had to wait forty minutes for the secretary to come back because "no one else does that."
She comes back, corrects the letter and I'm off to find this embassy. All I have is an address. Half the elevators are shut down, but I finally find a bank that will take me down to street level and now I must find a taxi. I come from TN! I don't know how to hail a taxi!
I ask security and they point me to a taxi stand, Lots of taxis just sitting there waiting on me!! I tell the cabbie where I need to go and wait. I have no idea how long it will take or where I'm going. I think to myself that I should not even worry about HOW to get there, just ride. Honking horns, crazy stop signs and crooked roads, but low and behold the embassy is...THERE! I am so pleased that I will make the 1:00 deadline and look to pay the cabbie.
No Wallet. Look more, still no wallet. My blood pressure goes up, the street workers are yelling at the cabbie to move and I have absolutely no way under the sun to pay this man his $14 fee. Finally I pull out a business card with my email and cell phone number-I knew those things were important to have. I profusely promise to pay him, he agrees and gives me his name and address. I feel so badly that this man has no idea whatsoever if I will really pay him. Afterall, this is how he makes his living.
After he leaves, I'm standing in front of the locked gates of this Embassy, in the drizzling rain. I call my husband who has also just had an extremely frustrating morning. I can be of no help to him, I just want to know if my wallet is there. Yes. Well that is one situation settled. I am miles away from home and have no way to pay for transportation, but I cannot worry about that right now. I've got to get my VISA papers turned in within the next 15 minutes.
The guard lets me through the gate, but takes my Passport as it is the only identification I have. Half way through the process I have to go back to the guard and get my passport, which they will keep until my VISA arrives.
Finally, I walk out with my business concluded and wonder just how much rain we will get this afternoon. I start walking. I think I spotted a Metro Station a few blocks away-good thing I was looking. Sure am glad I wore my flats today. I could call my husband, but he's already had a bad day and it would take him 2 hours to map where I am and get here with all the traffic. I keep walking determined that this will not beat me.
At the train station I find that $2 will pay my fare back to a station where I can catch a free shuttle to FSI. So I start looking for friendly faces and begging for money. A couple of nice people do give me a dollar each after sizing me up. You know they have to be wondering if I am scamming them. Sometimes you simply must rely on the kindness of strangers.
It did all work out. I sent the cabbie an $11 tip and he called to say thank you. But you know these things happen from time to time. I'm still just happy to be here.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Bike the Sights
We love to ride our bikes and it is the most fun when you are actually going somewhere. For this 3 day weekend we finally took the ride I have wanted to take since we got here to see all the sights on the National Mall. For 4 hours we cruised from Arlington Cemetery, around the Tidal Basin, up the the Capitol Building and back again. We saw the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, the National Arboretum, the WW II memorial as well as the memorials for Jefferson, Roosevelt, Lincoln and the Korean and Vietnam wars. It was invigorating and moving.
Friday, October 10, 2008
What Does the Title Mean?
I'm sure some are wondering why the name Jacksonian Realist for our blog. I am a political science major. My education teaches me to categorize ideas, policy and people. When I read this review, I realized that I also fit into a category. The review is on Walter Russel Mead’s book "Jacksonian Tradition" that discusses the major foundations of American foreign policy. I have the book, but have not yet had time to read it. Perhaps when I get to post.
Not only do I see my own beliefs reflected in the text, but I understand that my values color the way I view the world and analyze events. I thought that would be a good starting place for blogging about how we experience life from this point forward.
Life's an Adventure.
Not only do I see my own beliefs reflected in the text, but I understand that my values color the way I view the world and analyze events. I thought that would be a good starting place for blogging about how we experience life from this point forward.
Life's an Adventure.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Distinguished Service Award
I can't really blog about what happens every day, partly because it is boring (read work) and partly because security is such an overriding issue. I have worked entirely too hard to get here, to lose it because I violated security protocol. But I can blog about "being there when..."
Monday was the first day I did not have class all day and we went to Main State to take care of some administrative things. Secretary Condoleezza Rice scheduled an event to speak about Military-Diplomatic Cooperation. It was a full house, standing room only, when she surprised everyone including the recipients of the Distinguished Service Award. Secretary Rice awarded General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker with the highest honor that the State Department confers. Both gentlemen were caught off guard.
For those who don't know, General Petraeus formerly commanded the 101st Airborne Division (the Screaming Eagles) stationed at Fort Campbell. While it is officially addressed in KY, Fort Campbell is actually in TN. And it is a group we are very proud of.
Congratulations to Ambassador Crocker and General Petraeus. I was honored to be present.
Monday was the first day I did not have class all day and we went to Main State to take care of some administrative things. Secretary Condoleezza Rice scheduled an event to speak about Military-Diplomatic Cooperation. It was a full house, standing room only, when she surprised everyone including the recipients of the Distinguished Service Award. Secretary Rice awarded General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker with the highest honor that the State Department confers. Both gentlemen were caught off guard.
For those who don't know, General Petraeus formerly commanded the 101st Airborne Division (the Screaming Eagles) stationed at Fort Campbell. While it is officially addressed in KY, Fort Campbell is actually in TN. And it is a group we are very proud of.
Congratulations to Ambassador Crocker and General Petraeus. I was honored to be present.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
I'm now Official
The little saying goes "One for the dough and one for the show." We are sworn in day one to make our entry on duty official and allow us to receive a paycheck (for the dough). But after several grueling weeks of information overload, wrestling with bureaucracy, and general all around exhaustion, you really do feel that you have at least earned your spot. It all culminated in our official Swearing-in Ceremony, and what a show!
The setting was Diplomatic Reception rooms on the top Floor of Main State. The rooms are filled with historic antique furnishings and artwork. Several rooms have fireplaces and all are awe-inspiring. Respect and decorum are particularly prized by diplomats. It was a properly somber and dignified event as one by one 79 of us stood when our names were called. Undersecretary Pat Kennedy administered the oath of office, and the official photographer took our class photo.
Afterward, I treated my husband and mother-in-law to lunch in the nearby Diplomatic Dining Room. It was a great day to relax and smile.
The setting was Diplomatic Reception rooms on the top Floor of Main State. The rooms are filled with historic antique furnishings and artwork. Several rooms have fireplaces and all are awe-inspiring. Respect and decorum are particularly prized by diplomats. It was a properly somber and dignified event as one by one 79 of us stood when our names were called. Undersecretary Pat Kennedy administered the oath of office, and the official photographer took our class photo.
Afterward, I treated my husband and mother-in-law to lunch in the nearby Diplomatic Dining Room. It was a great day to relax and smile.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
First Post - Abu Dhabi
We finally have the answer...we are going to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It was our top choice and we are so excited! I have included a link above to the Middle East Partnership Initiative, to which I will be posted.
I know very little about the post myself, so I will be doing considerable research in the coming weeks.
We are scheduled to depart Washington near the end of November. Will blog again later!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Our Choice Bids
I know that everyone will be shocked, but this is our bid list, in order of preference:
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Lima, Peru
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Seoul, Korea
Panama City, Panama
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Vienna, Austria
Berlin, Germany
Caracas, Venezuela
Wellington, New Zealand
Kingston, Jamaica
Our first priority was that our dog must go (Kingston and Wellington are out on that basis) and the cost of living in Berlin and Vienna are very high. Other criteria we looked at included housing and quality of life, as well as the actual job!
Tomorrow our items from home are supposed to arrive, including a real computer! We have been living with only the items we brought in our vehicle which included our vacation clothing-lots of shorts and pullovers. But the weather has gone from high 90's to low 70's for the daytime high. I'm so looking forward to long pants!
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Lima, Peru
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Seoul, Korea
Panama City, Panama
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Vienna, Austria
Berlin, Germany
Caracas, Venezuela
Wellington, New Zealand
Kingston, Jamaica
Our first priority was that our dog must go (Kingston and Wellington are out on that basis) and the cost of living in Berlin and Vienna are very high. Other criteria we looked at included housing and quality of life, as well as the actual job!
Tomorrow our items from home are supposed to arrive, including a real computer! We have been living with only the items we brought in our vehicle which included our vacation clothing-lots of shorts and pullovers. But the weather has gone from high 90's to low 70's for the daytime high. I'm so looking forward to long pants!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Week One
It has been a week full information and filing out forms-lots and lots of forms!!!
Everyone is required to wear business attire and there's very little time to talk and get to know one another, even less to ask questions about something you don't understand. But we did have one night out. It was great! I think being gregarious is requisite for this job. Many of my classmates had very interesting careers prior to this. We said that we'd just stay an hour. Two hours later we had to pull ourselves away.
Sleeping certainly has not been an issue. I pass out as soon as my head hits the pillow. Our little house is not far away. I'm so glad that we are so close, because we are still busy from dawn to dusk. I surely don't miss my 2 hour daily commute!
Everyone is required to wear business attire and there's very little time to talk and get to know one another, even less to ask questions about something you don't understand. But we did have one night out. It was great! I think being gregarious is requisite for this job. Many of my classmates had very interesting careers prior to this. We said that we'd just stay an hour. Two hours later we had to pull ourselves away.
Sleeping certainly has not been an issue. I pass out as soon as my head hits the pillow. Our little house is not far away. I'm so glad that we are so close, because we are still busy from dawn to dusk. I surely don't miss my 2 hour daily commute!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Embassy Yemen
This morning Embassy Yemen was attacked. Though it was all the talk among my colleagues, there was very little real information available to us during our classes. I had to wait to get home to watch the news. My thoughts are with them.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
The List
And the bid list is...
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (Middle East Partnership Initiative)
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Berlin, Germany
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Caracas, Venezuela
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Kingston, Jamaica
Lima, Peru
Panama City, Panama
Seoul, Korea
Vienna, Austria (US Mission to Int'l Organizations)
Wellington, New Zealand
Just got the list late this afternoon. It has been a great day-FULL of information. The highlights of my day include being sworn-in in the Wood Lobby, where hundreds of other Classes have been before us; and getting my official State Department badge.
Tomorrow my spouse gets a full day, too. I'll see if I can get him to post his thoughts soon.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (Middle East Partnership Initiative)
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Berlin, Germany
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Caracas, Venezuela
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Kingston, Jamaica
Lima, Peru
Panama City, Panama
Seoul, Korea
Vienna, Austria (US Mission to Int'l Organizations)
Wellington, New Zealand
Just got the list late this afternoon. It has been a great day-FULL of information. The highlights of my day include being sworn-in in the Wood Lobby, where hundreds of other Classes have been before us; and getting my official State Department badge.
Tomorrow my spouse gets a full day, too. I'll see if I can get him to post his thoughts soon.
Monday, September 15, 2008
DC Arrival
We are finally in DC-well, actually Arlington. After living in hotels for the last 16 days, this little house is like heaven. We have driven more than 2200 miles in that time-and are still speaking.
Tomorrow is the big day. Suit and shoes-Check; Paperwork-Check; Know where to go-Check; Nothing left to do but get some rest and be ready for whatever comes.
We should get the bid list of posts tomorrow and will post it here as soon as possible.
Miss you all!
Tomorrow is the big day. Suit and shoes-Check; Paperwork-Check; Know where to go-Check; Nothing left to do but get some rest and be ready for whatever comes.
We should get the bid list of posts tomorrow and will post it here as soon as possible.
Miss you all!
Sunday, September 14, 2008
A Great Man
My Grandfather was laid to rest today. I wasn't able to be there.
My mother married my dad the same year Reginald married my grandmother and their union has spanned more than 50 years. Reg was a great man in both stature and in his character. He was a medic in World War II, though I did not know this until very late in his life. His memory began to fail several years ago, particularly his short term memory. He began to tell me stories from long ago which I had never heard.
He is much loved and will be missed by many.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Miss Pepper
We headed off to a vacation for the purpose of letting our emotions settle but we had gotten only a few hours away when we had bad news. Our 15 year old Miniature Schnauzer, Pepper was getting worse, we thought she would get better. We had to make the very emotional final decision for her.
Many tears later I can say that I have no doubt that we made the the right decision for her, but we will miss her very much. She's been with us for 10 years, full of personality and energy. She was always vocal and, from day one, protective of us. Frightened of thunder, fireworks and stairs, she was our little princess with the China girl eyes. She trusted us in everything. She suffered from allergies that for the most part we held at bay. With age came loss of hearing so I hummed to her when I held her.
Part of making the decision to pursue this position with State was the fact that all material things don't really matter, as long as we have each other and the dogs. My sadness is for my loss of the joy she gave me everyday.
Life is all about transition and evolution. We can neither separate the joy from the sorrow nor chose when either happens.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Taking a Break
Everything went exactly as planned-the packers came and packed everything we own, the movers came and moved it all out. We are officially homeless and, technically, jobless! It has been a wild ride and moved so quickly. We are taking a much needed break (on vacation) until Sept 12. We will resume blogging at that time.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Preparing to Move
We are a practical pair. Knowing that we could hardly see everyone we wanted to say goodbye to, we had an open house sort of party last Saturday evening, giving anyone who wished an opportunity to stop in for a bit and chat. It was a great success. We also invited the couple who are purchasing our home so they could really meet the neighbors, and hopefully love them like we do. It seemed everyone had a great time.
This morning a representative from the moving company came to look over our move items. We are not allowed to pack any items ourselves, so stuff is beginning to find its way to piles in corners under stickies on the wall naming the category. Some items will be going into long term storage at a State owned warehouse while other items will go there only until our first assignment, then be shipped to us overseas. We also have the option of having a small shipment of personal items delivered to our new place in Arlington.
We close on the house on Friday, attend family gatherings on Sunday and Monday; the packers pack the house on Tuesday, load the moving truck on Wednesday and we are off on a much needed vacation on Thursday!
One of the biggest tips I can offer anyone embarking on a similar journey is to make electronic copies of all of your important documents (birth certificates, living wills, wallet contents, etc.) and have them accessible to you from anywhere in the world by storing them on a secure server. I hope this will save us heartache and time in the future.
This morning a representative from the moving company came to look over our move items. We are not allowed to pack any items ourselves, so stuff is beginning to find its way to piles in corners under stickies on the wall naming the category. Some items will be going into long term storage at a State owned warehouse while other items will go there only until our first assignment, then be shipped to us overseas. We also have the option of having a small shipment of personal items delivered to our new place in Arlington.
We close on the house on Friday, attend family gatherings on Sunday and Monday; the packers pack the house on Tuesday, load the moving truck on Wednesday and we are off on a much needed vacation on Thursday!
One of the biggest tips I can offer anyone embarking on a similar journey is to make electronic copies of all of your important documents (birth certificates, living wills, wallet contents, etc.) and have them accessible to you from anywhere in the world by storing them on a secure server. I hope this will save us heartache and time in the future.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Logistics
As you can imagine selling a house, packing up to move who knows where while working your job and taking care of your family can be hectic. I have been craving information from day one, digging for it every day, and it has paid off. We are a week away from closing and I have to say that it is not quite as hectic as it could be, because we have planned and prepared for months.
In the last few days we've gotten a disposable cell phone to replace those we will leave with our employers, collected even more medical and veterinary records, scheduled the movers, canceled internet and cable service, opened a new PO Box, had an extra electronic key made for our auto, organized info on our new residence in DC, prepared 20 years worth of family photos to be scanned...in the middle of that we've had a sick dog and a non-starting automobile!
You know it just doesn't look like that much when you write it down, but we have been very busy. Still feeling great and not feeling overwhelmed just yet, as a matter of fact we are having a blast doing this together!
In the last few days we've gotten a disposable cell phone to replace those we will leave with our employers, collected even more medical and veterinary records, scheduled the movers, canceled internet and cable service, opened a new PO Box, had an extra electronic key made for our auto, organized info on our new residence in DC, prepared 20 years worth of family photos to be scanned...in the middle of that we've had a sick dog and a non-starting automobile!
You know it just doesn't look like that much when you write it down, but we have been very busy. Still feeling great and not feeling overwhelmed just yet, as a matter of fact we are having a blast doing this together!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Start of a New Adventure
Well, after a month of procrastination I'm finally sitting down to type my first entry. A month may seem like a long time just to write a paragraph, but I remember almost 5 years ago being home alone for the whole summer while the Traveler was working an internship in Washington D.C. at the Foreign Service Institute and calling to tell me how wonderful it would be to work with these folks full time. Now this seemingly unattainable career choice is a reality.
There are approximately 270 embassies around the world and we could be asked to serve at any one of them for a term of 2-3 years each. During the first 15 years of our wonderful marriage, I was the one who got to tell stories of my travels to every state in the U.S., except Hawaii. Now, we will travel the world and get paid for it. Our anniversary is 3 days after the start of the training in D.C. and I'm really drawing a blank to come up with a gift to top world travel with endless adventures. Any ideas?
There are approximately 270 embassies around the world and we could be asked to serve at any one of them for a term of 2-3 years each. During the first 15 years of our wonderful marriage, I was the one who got to tell stories of my travels to every state in the U.S., except Hawaii. Now, we will travel the world and get paid for it. Our anniversary is 3 days after the start of the training in D.C. and I'm really drawing a blank to come up with a gift to top world travel with endless adventures. Any ideas?
Friday, August 15, 2008
Acceptance Package
I just dropped the completed acceptance package in the mail. For anyone interested to see, here is a link to the paperwork that must be completed. If you entering the Foreign Service, it can give you a head start.
I also just returned the lease on our temporary quarters while in DC. It is a small home that comes fully furnished and has a fenced in back yard for our pups. I know that we will not always be able to live in the most ideal situation for our family, but I can delay it for as long as possible. No reason to add stress we can avoid.
I also just returned the lease on our temporary quarters while in DC. It is a small home that comes fully furnished and has a fenced in back yard for our pups. I know that we will not always be able to live in the most ideal situation for our family, but I can delay it for as long as possible. No reason to add stress we can avoid.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Written Offers
So much has happened since my last post! The written offer from State came, it must have weighed 2 lbs! I turned in my notice at work, as has my partner-in-crime. I have sent an initial response of my intention to accept, but I have to finish filling out forms and send an updated resume very soon.
Not only did we receive a written offer from State, but we also received a written offer on our house. We selected our real estate agent on Friday, put the house on the market on Monday and had an offer for the asking price on Wednesday. Not too bad in a soft market.
Our heads are spinning but we are blessed.
Hopefully you will hear from my Finn sisu soon.
Not only did we receive a written offer from State, but we also received a written offer on our house. We selected our real estate agent on Friday, put the house on the market on Monday and had an offer for the asking price on Wednesday. Not too bad in a soft market.
Our heads are spinning but we are blessed.
Hopefully you will hear from my Finn sisu soon.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Standing in the Dark
I think all citizens can agree that we do not respect politicians who use games and double speak, as well as parliamentary procedure to accomplish very little for the people and most for themselves. "Politicians" are not representatives of the people, nor are they statesmen who do what is right for their country.
I am pleased to say that I see leadership by the U.S. House members who have now staged a four day protest in the darkened nation's capitol. They protest that Dem. Speaker Nancy Pelosi recessed the House for a summer vacation without bringing legislation to the floor that could ease Americans' current pain at the pump ($4-$5 gas depending on location/grade). Democrats left town without even allowing a vote on lifting a ban on offshore oil drilling.
It is disappointing that major news outlets are paying very little attention to what is a huge story. Their history of this kind of coverage is why people in the know get their information from talk radio and blogs. I have found through the years that information found on blogs if often closer to the truth than news coverage. Of course, you must sift through a lot and decide for yourself what jibes with what you actually know to be true.
I would love to bring this to the attention of so many right-minded people who could help put pressure on legislators to do the correct thing. Unfortunately, this is just one of so many issues that raise my ire and fuel my passions, and right now I just don't have the energy for it. I'm thankful that someone else does.
I am pleased to say that I see leadership by the U.S. House members who have now staged a four day protest in the darkened nation's capitol. They protest that Dem. Speaker Nancy Pelosi recessed the House for a summer vacation without bringing legislation to the floor that could ease Americans' current pain at the pump ($4-$5 gas depending on location/grade). Democrats left town without even allowing a vote on lifting a ban on offshore oil drilling.
It is disappointing that major news outlets are paying very little attention to what is a huge story. Their history of this kind of coverage is why people in the know get their information from talk radio and blogs. I have found through the years that information found on blogs if often closer to the truth than news coverage. Of course, you must sift through a lot and decide for yourself what jibes with what you actually know to be true.
I would love to bring this to the attention of so many right-minded people who could help put pressure on legislators to do the correct thing. Unfortunately, this is just one of so many issues that raise my ire and fuel my passions, and right now I just don't have the energy for it. I'm thankful that someone else does.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Statesman of the Year
A few weeks ago I received a call from TN GOP Chairman Robin Smith to notify me that I had been chosen to be the TN GOP Statesman of the Year (6th District, one of 9). What a complete surprise! I have thought in the past that it might be a cool award to get, but never did I expect to receive it. Though I was unable to attend the annual Statesman's Dinner held last Saturday, I do consider it a great honor. I especially want to say Thank you to all who have called and written to say Congratulations.
I want to give kudos to Robin, I think she has been a wonderful State Party Chairman. One of her passions is the grassroots, that so often are forgotten by those who consider status and money to be the proper measure of who is important. I respect greatly the citizen who lives by a self-imposed honorable and moral code. I trust their judgement regardless of level of formal education or accumulated wealth. I wish every candidate Godspeed that can understand and reflect those values.
I want to give kudos to Robin, I think she has been a wonderful State Party Chairman. One of her passions is the grassroots, that so often are forgotten by those who consider status and money to be the proper measure of who is important. I respect greatly the citizen who lives by a self-imposed honorable and moral code. I trust their judgement regardless of level of formal education or accumulated wealth. I wish every candidate Godspeed that can understand and reflect those values.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Real Estate Agents
We are interviewing real estate agents and trying to figure out how to balance the price of our home so that it sells quickly and still yields a return for us. It would be a shame for it to sell on day 2 for our asking price (we would feel that we under priced it) or for it to linger on the market (making us worry about our short timeframe).
It is nice that our neighbors hate to see us go. We have all lived here together for 10 years and enjoyed each other very much, watching kids, and dogs; helping each other out. Frankly, I love the house and the neighborhood. Those who know us best know that we are always building something or working on some home project, making the house fit us well.
There is paint to be touched up and clutter to be packed. Decisions must be made about what will go into long term storage, what will be sold and what goes with us. Not only must we sell and move out of this home, but we've got to find suitable temporary housing in DC. But I have to admit that as I work on these things I anxiously await the formal offer of employment that I thought would shortly follow the informal call. All the while watching the days tick off.
I suppose this is an opportunity to show off my flexibility and ability to remain calm. It is just one step at a time.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Cleaning House
We spent the weekend cleaning house and getting ready to put our home on the market. I'm happy to say that we have been preparing our house for years for resale, so its just minor things that must be done.
Telling friends and family is both exciting and difficult. Their reactions vary, but they all have questions-which we cannot answer because we just don't know yet. Though we are excited and looking forward to leaving, we are not fond of leaving them.
Though we are making plans and decisions we still have not received the final offer. I won't be telling anyone outside of family until we actually have accepted the offer. But Sept 15th is coming up fast.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
A New Beginning
It has been 5 years since I decided that I wanted to join the Foreign Service. It seems that dream is about to become a reality.
I received an ICO (immediate conditional offer of employment) last Nov 16, got my Security Clearance in Jan, Medical Clearance in June and finally my name on the register on June 24. For anyone contemplating such a career choice, be forewarned-it is an emotional roller coaster. I was ecstatic to learn my rank on the register was #8, devastated to find out that I had moved to #9 and that only eight would be called to the next class; and then elated to receive my invitation to training at FSI (the Foreign Service Institute). I suppose the only constant is change.
I start this blog, my very first, to not only chronicle my and my husband's entry into the Foreign Service, but hopefully as a journal of our travels and experiences. As I put it together I realize how much I love not only my country, but my state as well. Perhaps I will teach the world about the wonderful warmth of Tennesseans and their very rich history.
I received an ICO (immediate conditional offer of employment) last Nov 16, got my Security Clearance in Jan, Medical Clearance in June and finally my name on the register on June 24. For anyone contemplating such a career choice, be forewarned-it is an emotional roller coaster. I was ecstatic to learn my rank on the register was #8, devastated to find out that I had moved to #9 and that only eight would be called to the next class; and then elated to receive my invitation to training at FSI (the Foreign Service Institute). I suppose the only constant is change.
I start this blog, my very first, to not only chronicle my and my husband's entry into the Foreign Service, but hopefully as a journal of our travels and experiences. As I put it together I realize how much I love not only my country, but my state as well. Perhaps I will teach the world about the wonderful warmth of Tennesseans and their very rich history.
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