20 Days

 

 

Things are getting down to the wire quickly here.. as our paper chain dwindles down, there is SO much to do, plan, think about etc…  I am beginning to understand why expats have such a bond with each other because no one, but no one can understand how mentally challenging something like this is until you’ve done it.

When I break the news to someone, whether it be a stranger, acquaintance or best bud, I get one of two reactions… either: WOW how cool!! are you excited?!! or OMG I would NEVER do that… you’re one heck of a wife.   I find it interesting that the  reactions are so extreme and I don’t hear anything in between.. it is kind of funny.

Our plans, expectations and reality have changed so many times, I have learned to be more flexible and try to go with the flow as much as possible… Those of you that know me well, understand that this is a stretch for me.. I am a planner, organizer and a list person.  I am hoping that all of this change and adjustment will only help more once we get there and realize we aren’t in Texas anymore. ha.

One thing that has just kept my sanity is my friend, Colette.  She and I are sort of modern day “pen pals.”  Colette and her husband are in Abu Dhabi with Fluor and have lived there for a year… their kids are similar ages as ours and she has been a wealth of knowledge and a huge blessing to me.   I appreciate her letting me bombard her with daily emails of questions as stupid as, can you buy taco seasoning there? and as important as School Applications.. I would be in a serious BIND if I couldn’t pick her brain every single day.  I’m looking forward to meeting her in person soon!

Here is an overview of what is to come:

• Movers/Packers will arrive on January 28th
• We fly out February 1st
• We arrive in Abu Dhabi February 2nd
• Living in Furnished Apartment for 2 months
• Move into Villa
• Sea Shipment arrives with our stuff after being there 3 months

So.. After February 1st - unless it fits in our suitcase, we won’t see anything familiar until May {sigh}

There is so much out of our control and left up to timing and trust it is so easy to see God’s hand at work.  With all these moves I know that one day I will look back and wonder how in the world I got through it… The peace and rest I get from giving it to God is so much better than wrestling with all of this myself. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to Him,

and He will make your paths straight