Developments

I had an official French test last week, and scored the expected 2/2 - right on track. Testing at FSI is very stressful, and Iʻm relieved that I was able to exhibit the appropriate vocabulary, grammar, and reading ability to earn the score - especially because I wonʻt be in French too much longer.

I was contacted a few weeks ago by Consular Affairs, who asked if I might be willing to go to Luxembourg early - as early as May. It would mean obtaining a partial language waiver, as the position actually requires a 3/3 fluency level in French, but post is in need of a Consular Chief. The person who has been in Luxembourg for the last 2+ years has been receiving medical care in the U.S. since December 2018, and the embassy there has been relying on temporary help from other countries (mainly France) to fill the gap. They really need a consistent chief, hence the request.

Iʻve agreed to forego more training and head to Europe. Iʻm waiting for the waiver to come through so that my orders can be amended, but I expect that to happen pretty quickly. Then thereʻs last minute wardrobe shopping, pack-out and logistics, consultations with folks here in DC, a quick trip to see my girls in the west, and then Iʻm off. R will be here in DC to help with the initial move requirements, but then heʻll return to work in Oregon until mid- to late-summer when heʻll come over to join me.

Iʻm looking forward to getting started in a new country. Itʻs the best part of the Foreign Service - the ability to experience other cultures first-hand.

Meanwhile, a few photos of spring in my Arlington/FSI/DC neighborhood:

Springtime at the Foreign Service Institute.

Flowers framing the tunnel that goes under Arlington Blvd - I walk this way to and from school every day.

R and I had the great fortune to visit the White House Gardens!

The White House Gardens.

White House Gardens, with the Washington and Jefferson Memorials in the distance.

White House Gardens - what a view!

The back of the White House.

Fort Ward - near Alexandria, VA.

Fort Ward.

FSI.

FSI.

The U.S. Capital - I was on my way to the National Gallery of Art.