And The Next Duty Station Goes To...

photo from marshallsabroad.com

It's official! Our family is headed to Okinawa, Japan this fall for 3 whole years! It's a bit overwhelming, but exciting (to say the least)! When Nick and I discussed his options for duty station assignments, we both agreed that we wanted to take our kids overseas while they were still young. For as long as I can remember, we have talked about one day being stationed overseas as a family, and how much fun it would be. I want my kids to grow up well-rounded and cultured, and what better way than to give them this amazing experience?! 

Nick and I have both been to Japan prior to being married (as single Marines), and while Nick did NOT take advantage of his time on this gorgeous island, I sure as heck did! I know a lot has changed since the last time we were both there (15-ish years ago), but I have always imagined going back one day. It's pretty neat that I actually get to! We also have a lot of friends who are currently stationed there, so we are excited to be reunited with them. They always say, if you stay in the Marine Corps long enough, you'll be back with friends that you have once left.

Back to reality here. I am currently stressing out about selling our house, dealing with a very emotional 8 year old, flying to Japan with Mattis (seriously, a nightmare in the making), figuring out what furniture I can/can't take with us, my job (that I love), transitioning to a foreign country, and did I mention selling our house? As a type A, control freak, all of this stuff gives me severe anxiety. I have a hard time with the phrase, "Let Go, and Let God", and I'm trying really hard not to let the little things stress me out so much.

With that said, I am also really sad to be leaving Texas. My home state. My home town. My family. My friends. My kid's school. My little cul-de-sac. My neighbors. Aggieland has literally been one of my favorite places to be, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be able to come back here for 3 years. Our family got to experience some normalcy for once, and really got to enjoy our time as a family here. We still have one last, hot Texas summer here, so we are looking forward to making the most of it!