Feb
10
Back in December, I wrote about my candidacy to the US Foreign Service. My reasoning behind moving forward with my application even though I knew we might be moving was to keep our options open.
Well, after much thought and many unforeseen circumstances, I have decided to withdraw my candidacy.
While I was mulling over what to do, I realized that a lot of the other candidates were a lot older than me. I may be speculating as to the reason they waited to pursue this career, but one of the main reasons I felt it wasn’t the time is because of the kids. I couldn’t imagine making them move every two to three years. I know that there are kids who do this and end up successful; however, I don’t think my kids (or their parents) are cut out for that lifestyle.
Oddly enough, this wasn’t a difficult choice to make and it’s one of those times that I feel like it’s the right thing to do. I enjoyed the experience of applying for the position (I chose the Management Cone) and I feel much better prepared should I choose to try again in the future. As I described before, the process if quite long and in a way it gives you a chance to really think about the life you are choosing.
So, the plan for the next five to seven years is that there will only be one diplomat in the family 
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Posted in Department of State, Foreign Service Officer Test, Moving, Parenting, Thoughts Department of State Foreign Service Officer Test Management Cone Parenting
Jan
10
Are the kids okay?! Especially, during this first week of school. 
After answering the question for the 30th time, my husband said “I wonder what they expected to happen”. My sentiments exactly.
I thought that everyone would assume that the kids would have the easiest time adjusting to a change like this. My seven year-old was really excited about coming and I think my two year-old thinks we’re on an extended vacation. He would not be surprised if we got on an airplane tomorrow and moved back to our old house – aahh, the joys of childhood.
When we first made this decision, my first concern was “how will the kids adjust”. But, after thinking and researching, not necessarily in that order, I realized that the most important thing for them at this age is stability in the home. Throughout this process, our family unit has stayed in tact and that is making the transition smoother.
I was a little nervous about them starting school, but after the first day meltdowns adjustments were over, they seem to really like it. The school schedule is different than in the states (shorter days) and I think this has helped a lot. When people ask me how they’re dealing with the new language, I tell that it’s too soon to tell. Of course they don’t understand most things right now, but I will be better able to assess their progress after at least three months.
In the meantime, I am enjoying watching their little developments so that one day I’ll say “ I remember when you weren’t fluent in Spanish.” 
Photo credit: Tommickle
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Posted in Caracas, Cultural Assimilation, Culture, Expat, Immigrant Families, Immigrants, Moving Abroad, Parenting Children Abroad Cultural Assimilation Expat Families Immigrant Families Learning a Foreign Language
Back in December, I wrote about my candidacy to the US Foreign Service. My reasoning behind moving forward with my application even though I knew we might be moving was to keep our options open.
