Thursday, December 31, 2015

Happy 2016!!

It's 9:30am and my kids only just woke up. Not bad at all!

When I look at 2016, I don't feel that same excitement about change and moving that I used to. I think after 5 years in the FS (our anniversary is this weekend!), I'm getting used to all the movement. I am definitely used to weird FS habits like using up products in the pantry. In fact, it's been bugging me for a good six months (beginning a full year before our departure) that we have a bunch of bags of lentils, beans, and cornmeal that need to be eaten.

But this year will be a big one! We are going to try to travel a bunch before we leave China. Then we will have a whirlwind home leave in the US, and then on to settle into our new home in Mexico!!

Here are the photos that I think best represent 2015 in theory. Having adventures together as a family, and wishing for good health and happiness for my kids.

 And 2016? When I think of moving to Mexico, I see more color, music, beaches, and vibrancy in our lives. And of course, more time with family! 2016 looks more like this:





4 comments:

ksmr said...

Hi there, B! I just wanted to drop in and let you know that I greatly value your blog. I am not embarrassed to admit that I have read it from beginning to end, especially since you've mentioned you used to obsessively read the FS blogs too. :) Anyway, my name languished on one of the lists for 18 months and then recently expired without being offered a class. Ouch. However, the dream lives on and the hope is still alive...I just re-took the FSOT. I have a 2-year-old and my husband would be coming along with me so I have taken to heart your entire experience. On another note, I just found this book by a Japanese author, which I have enjoyed and since you like writing about packouts, I thought you might like it too. Check it out:
http://www.amazon.com/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-Decluttering-Organizing/dp/1607747308/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456110338&sr=8-1&keywords=the+life+changing+magic+of+tidying+up

Congrats on Mexico and thank you SO much for sharing your experience!

Megan said...

This is a beautiful blog! My name is Megan and my husband is planning to take the FSO exam in June. We are having lots of conversations dreaming about this lifestyle. I have a few questions that I'd love to ask you more specifically. Is there an e-mail address I can reach you? Or do you mind reaching out to me if you don't want to publicize your e-mail address? Mine is megan.dove@yahoo.com or sradove@gmail.com
Thank you!!

ksmr said...

Dear B. Sorry to bug you--I left you the comment with the link to that book called The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. Anyway, I am reapplying to the FS as a Consular Officer and I am mostly excited but I am married with a 2-year-old and I think a lot about how this lifestyle will affect my daughter. I am pretty convinced it will be so beneficial, but I think I can't know that for sure? Ugh....
My biggest question I think is, Would you do it all over again? Would you be willing to email me with some thoughts when you have a moment? My email address is kristymartinez@hotmail.com.
With gratitude,
Kristy

Bfiles said...

I just wrote you both privately- so sorry! I have obviously not been blogging and your comments were awaiting moderation. Happy to answer any questions that you have!

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