Chuck and I also renewed our vows in Nashville with Elvis and Johnny Cash - after 10 years and more adventures than I want to mention, it was needed! Try to start again! Things have been so crazy with him overseas and me, a semi-single mom, and school, not to mention a very active 5 year old who keeps me on my toes!
We're making it, but have our good and bad days. Last weekend Abby and I went to NYC to see Phantom of the Opera (the girl has watched and sang every song from it since she was 3). I'm trying to make her return to the US as fun and exciting as possible. There is so much she's missed out on. A lot of things she gained, but more what she's missed.
We had to explain Valentine's day, St. Patrick's Day and April Fools (Lord help us!) She's adjusting well, but we really miss daddy. 2 months separation at a time takes it's toll.
The sad thing is, he hasn't found a job in the US yet, offers have been made, but the money is low - lower than 8 years ago when he retired from the Navy, so we're playing with the idea of another year contract. I'm staying strong, but it is stressful.
The good news is - we get our house back SOON!!! We are going to start rennovations and will be returning to North Carolina after Abby finishes school. I think this will help as we may finally be settled somewhere more permanent (after 3 years) and have all our things in one place (which is a HUGE accomplishment at this point!) We have some exciting things going on with this, so hoping this will see us through the next few months.
I've received some emails from people who are thinking of moving to Saudi. Please understand that I loved our time there, and I'm pretty honest and up front about our experiences. Things are different now, and I try to keep up with what my husband is telling me along with friends we have there. The women are still at it - and I'm happy to still put anyone in touch with people if you need "on site" insight. For us, I'm still glad we made the decision to return to the US and, no, even with my husband overseas, we don't plan on traveling there again.
Life is moving along (with or without us) and we're taking it a day at a time and keeping busy. I still check the news and get updates from the Embassy nearly every day or couple days now. It's sad that things are the way they are - the world can be so cruel.
Here's to another adventure as we begin renovating our home though and moving toward a stable place - once we get there, by the way, I don't think I ever want to leave again! :)