All7OfUs
<font color=darkorchid>We too are so very NOT into
- Joined
- Dec 12, 2007
- Messages
- 13,090
Since we're waiting on Mary before moving on, can I back up and ask some questions that are really none of my business but I'm gonna ask anyway?![]()
And unfortunately you may have to wait a little longer for Mary's post...
There has been tragedy and drama in her world- nothing life or death related, but definitely has EVERYTHING to do with this TR!!! I'll let her explain!
I haven't been along since the beginning of this journey, but I think I did go back and get caught up once I joined in. That said, I did skim through pretty quickly (or as quickly as one can skim through such an epic journey) I know that your return to the states was sooner than you anticipated. When had you planned on returning initially - or did you have an "end date" in mind yet?
We had actually planned originally to return by the end of this winter anyway. So it was only about 6 months sooner than we wanted to. It's all good- and is really working out very well. Not a great time to find a job, but we have a definite peace about the timing and where HE has us right now.
When we came back- whether is was when we did or about now, when we originally planned, we knew it was going to be for a long time- perhaps indefinitely. There are just so many issues we need to face and deal with before we can think of returning overseas.
How have the kids settled in to the return? I know you said your (middle???) daughter was taking it the hardest. Has she adjusted better now that it's been a little while?
Some have done better than others. My middle girl IS the most affected and even still has some pretty gnarly bouts of crying and grieving. Just on New Year's Eve, she was reminded once again how things "are just not the same". Every year, we would be treated to a HUGE fireworks display that we could see out our front window. Everyone would be outside partying, we would be invited into neighbors' homes for a meal, it was just so festive.... and here...
it's just not. It was anti-climactic to the point that she just couldn't cope. It is very possible that I will need to find some counseling for her before too long with someone who specializes in "Third Culture Kids'" issues.
When you were in Crap-istan you had commented on certain food items that you couldn't get there. I get that things wouldn't be available over there, but were there some things that family back home could not send to you. I know that perishables probably wouldn't travel well, but were there things that weren't "permitted" to be sent? Did incoming packages arrive to you intact or was there the possibility that they would arrive "slightly lighter" than when they were sent?
We often had things like peanut butter, taco seasoning, baking powder, vanilla. Pretty much anything could be mailed as long as it didn't spoil. We did have a fair amount of visitors come through, so about once every quarter, we'd get something fun brought in. Sometimes it was just from the Big City where more things were available.
We never had anything really completely stolen, but yes, ALL of our packages were "gone through" and opened. Until my parents had the brilliant idea of using Rubbermaid tubs which they drilled holes in through the lids and rims- then zip-tied shut. That put an end to pilfering. But up to the last day, our envelopes were opened and read.

I would never think you're nosy! Just curious and concerned. Thank you so much for asking- I never mind answering questions about my life in Central Asia!
I can't remember if I replied to your last update... it's impossible to keep up with everything!!! ARGH!
Okay, here goes:
Too bad you forgot your toothbrush! That's the worst! Definitely my worst nightmare.
The food looked yummy...that is once it was cooked properly. It's a good thing you checked the food before paying for it. I'll have to remember that next time I'm buying food and it's squirming on my plate after I've paid for it![]()
Worse than showing up to rope drop in your underwear?? I still have that one about once a month. Well, showing up to school, not RD.
I just like the fact that she threw a few more on (that were fully cooked) as a bonus!

3 Days, 169 pages and I am all caught up on this TR!!!
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Just in time for us to leave for WDW in 9 days!and
Though thanks to DH's iPad, I just may be able to log in from time to time.
The DC meet was great fun - wish we could have stayed for the afternoon and dinner but DD had school the next day.
Can't wait to hear Mary's C and to be able to comment away!






Woooooooooooooohooooty!!
I think it may be a record!!
I got one too, and LOVE IT!! I'm posting from it right now, and have a USB modem, so wherever there's wireless I can log on and be part of the party!
I know- there were several school starters in our group, soI understand your need to have left earlier. But it was SO fun meeting you! Your daughter is delightful and so cute!
I hope Mary can even comment soon! More on that, I'm sure.