Opportunities
As stressful as a job loss and new time of transition can be, I have been thinking a lot lately of the unique gift the unknown brings. We are at a crossroads again, and we have another chance to stop and ask ourselves what we want. To rehash or rearrange our priorities. To dream a little. While Jeff genuinely loved his job, it wasn't quite enough for us financially, and though I have been thankful to have a husband that works full time, I still want to be able to work and share the parenting a little more equally. As we look around, we are coming up with new ideas and some things that were merely on the radar two years ago have now become quite important. I have given Portland a good go, and am not too attached to living here at this point. My business is not in a place that I would lose much if we moved somewhere. And if we stay here, we have some ideas of possibilities we might still take advantage of. We are open.
One opportunity that has come up is the possibility of Jeff taking a job working for the Department of Defense, on a military base overseas. The pay and benefits would meet our needs, and I have been hankering for a good adventure. We are looking at two possible locations, one in Germany and one in Sicily. So far, I have been afraid to hope too much. When this possibility came up, I had absolutely no hesitation-- this is the perfect time to pack up and go. Of course, Sicily seems too dreamy to be real, with all of that ocean and sunshine and citrus fruits, the blend of Italian, Greek and Tunisian cultures (and the food!!)... Jeff is deep in the application process, and so far it is all looking positive. Still, I am afraid to hope too much-- I want to be content with staying here. Although I don't feel like we have built much here in the last two years (despite much effort,) and am feeling a bit discouraged in that regard. I'll keep you posted on the application process. In the meantime, you praying types can keep us in mind as we seek direction for our family and ask for contentment-- no matter where we land.
12 comments:
That is sooo exciting. I can understand not wanting to get your hopes up too much. I'll be praying. (c:
Yes, I agree with Luke. I hope it works out for you! Wow! We're the praying types, so we'll be doing that.
sounds like that could be a fun adventure. it would be cool for a to have some overseas experiences too, just like her momma.
wow! this would be SO cool.
I understand with not feeling quite attached. I think I am JUST NOW feeling like Chicago is home. It takes time, but now it is home. Hang in there.
carol
Ooo! That does sound great! I can understand those feelings as we have also been making a go at Dallas and working hard to be content here and make a life, and now Jim is actually applying for a job in Denver and we're driving up for the final interview next week! It's such a battle to be content right where we are, and yet to have the fun and freedom to dream. We'll be thinking of you guys and praying!
Erin
Wow Erin, I had no idea! How exciting-- and tiring-- to think about! I hope you can find some positives in the process and end up with something unexpectedly wonderful!
I can hardly wait to see what God will do for you guys! What amazing possibilities!
Move to Philly!!!! You guys would love it! It's cheap, you don't need a car (very bike friendly), the farmer's market rules, the food culture rules, AND it's close to NYC! We hop on the bus for 20 bucks round trip and visit Matt and Lisa! At least come visit!
We're excited for you too! And praying that God will clearly guide you.Love you.
Spent some quality time looking at Sigonella AFB on Google. About 12 miles south and west of Catania on Sicily. 3200 family people on the base, if the wind is blowing to the south, the ashes from Etna will be obvious. And close to Malta!! If, that is, you decide on that one. We've been to Landstuhl in Germany, another possibility. Poppa Robert
Sicily would be amazing! What would it be like living on an air force base, I wonder? It might be like living in Atlanta, in Italy. Oh no: that would be terrible! :) Good luck with the application process. Will you be able to work as well?
Hi Maria! No, we wouldn't be living on the base. I really wouldn't go for that. We would be living in a nearby town/city and Jeff would commute. I would definitely like to work as well, but would not be able to work formally in Sicily. I am thinking that I could do bodywork mostly for people on the base-- I imagine that there is a great need and not a whole lot of competition. And Amelia would go to a local school.
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