Well, the bid list was submitted yesterday. Less than 2 weeks until Flag Day (1/31), when we'll find out our fate (for the next ~2 years, anyway). I have a feeling it will pass pretty quickly. I don't really want to wish the time away, because that will mean wishing A-100 away, and it's really a pretty cool time.
On Friday, I met with my CDO (Career Development Officer), the person in charge of assigning me to a post. My husband was able to participate by calling in. I felt like it was a good meeting. She listened to us and our concerns, learned more about me and my skills, and prepared us for a post using my Spanish. We tried not to get too bogged down in dozens of priorities, focusing on just one: we'd like to avoid a Mexico border post with our young children, because of the dangerous atmosphere. She was kind, but cautioned that a border post might be exactly the right fit for me, as the timing might work out perfectly with the amount of Spanish training I need. She also noted that we might be able to go to other Spanish speaking posts, which was good news, as I thought many of the posts were designated for people needing a full course of Spanish.
[it is so hard to write this without revealing post names! Or revealing prohibited information! I understand why many bloggers go private.]
I should add that there are many advantages to serving on the border, and that if we're assigned there, we will make the best of it. I really love Mexico, and feel so sad that the violence is escalating to such a degree. Every post has its pluses and minuses, and in the end, I didn't end up doing too much research on posts. I read a few pages on most of them, and then just trusted that wherever we're assigned, we'll figure things out and make our way.
In the end, we had 21 high posts, 17 lows (danger/unaccompanied posts, D.C. jobs, and Econ posts), and the rest mediums. Our highs include varied posts that would allow me to learn quite a few different languages. Anything could happen on Flag Day. We just have to wait and see.
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13 comments:
Best of luck! Thanks for sharing what you can. Don't worry I won't tell anyone. ; )
I hope you are able to share flag day with us. How exciting. You will end up where you are needed the most. Like Mary Poppins. = )
Mexico's a great place to be! There are dangers, sure. Here in Guadalajara it's relatively quiet, and yet we have to be more careful with every passing day. The gov't does a great job of keeping the officers and their families safe all over the world. But you know what, you could get hit by a taxi in DC tomorrow (though I hope not!). You never know what life has in store. Just live in the moment and enjoy the ride! Hope Flag Day comes quickly, and when you get your flag, it's one you want.
Congrats- the whole process sounds so exciting. Can't wait to hear about flag day!
Good luck with your flag day and can't wait to hear all about it! -PD, 159er
Hope you guys get what you want.
I agree with Aaron. Mexico can be a great place to be. Things are chill here right now. You never know of course but you guys will definitely figure it out.
If you do go to a border post (or any danger post for that matter) be sure to reach out to people already there. They will help you see the good stuff in the post and, more importantly, hopefully share ideas on things that helped them make the best of being at a border post. It isn't easy but I think we've learned a lot and I feel pretty close to other people at post because we've been through a lot together.
Good luck! Can't wait to see where you go!
I snuck a peak at your bid list and it seemed like there were quite a few Spanish-speaking but non-Mexico posts (in really cool sounding places, too). I'm crossing my fingers for you! But there are pros and cons to everything and I'm sure you guys can make the best of whatever flag comes your way. I look forward to hearing about it!
I hear that for most people their first post is their best, whether they felt that way or Flag Day or not. I think people just embrace the post they get and just make the best of it, so you certainly have the right attitude.
Best of luck with the bidding process. Can't wait for your Flag Day to find out where you get posted.
Good luck, Bridget. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you on the 31st.
Best of luck ... can't wait to hear where you're going!
oooh!! exciting. enjoy the ride. I am trying to enjoy my own ride of the last couple weeks before a-100. Sigh...will I ever stop looking forward two steps? ...don't answer that! :)
I would stay away from Mexico as well. Too unstable. Best of luck on your bid! E was sad to know you guys would be moving again. LOL Told her maybe E, M & L could be pen pals. Your current accomodations look great and I do hope you get to use the pool!
Janine
Good luck and hope you get your dream locale. Honestly, though, I think you will be happy anywhere :-)
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