I did not take the unexpected assignment news well.
We have been in Hawaii less than a year.
I have been crying, cussing, and hurling bitter rage towards the Hubby and the Military.
The Invisible Hand of Military Assignments strikes again, with no reason or rationale given. (Yes, I know, I know….I expect too much.)
So after my epic temper tantrum (which is still ongoing – I’m still really pissed about the unexpectedness and abruptness of it all.), I will suck it up and gear up for the next “great adventure” that awaits us.
But let’s be honest – 3 moves in 3 years with kids to different states and now different countries IS hard. Especially since the original plan was that we would be in Hawaii for at least 2 years. I get that plans change, but this abrupt change has been really difficult for me to accept because (1) I love Hawaii and (2) I had made MY plans and dreams, which now I must put on hold, regroup and reinvent, or give up entirely. It’s hard to not be resentful.
The hubby & kids will not accept a self-imposed family separation, especially for two years. Trust me, that was my first thought, “Have fun! Kids and I will stay in paradise!”
I simply don’t know what I am going to do with myself for two years in South Korea (and maybe only a year) besides traveling. I will soon have to drop everything to get ready for this move (passports, medical clearances, household management, transportation). We will spend time with family this summer on the mainland, especially since visits will be far and few the next couple of years, and we will then spend time getting situated in our new temporary home. When I feel less overwhelmed, I can investigate what opportunities are available in South Korea. I’m not saying that there are not any there. I’m just saying I’m tired of doing this for a 3rd year in a row. I had my plan for Hawaii and now suddenly bye-bye.
Everybody I know is starting to offer the Pep Talk Platitudes – “Wow! What an adventure!”
Or my second favorite “How awesome it will be for the kids to experience another culture!”
Or “Everyone who has been stationed there loves it!”
It IS an adventure, and it IS awesome. Just not for me, not today.
Seize the day, Buttercup.
Or in my case, suck it up, Buttercup.
VALERIE
P.S. It’s been 3 weeks since the surprise announcement, I have calmed down enough that I can say that I am leaving paradise and moving to Korea, without snarling or tears. This is an improvement. There are still many things that make my head spin – crazy neighbor in the north with weapons, Vog masks (pollution masks?), being halfway around the world from my aging parents….but it’s an “Adventure” so therefore we can dismiss all concerns and believe it’s going to be ok.
And it will all be ok. I just don’t have to be ok about it every second of every day.
Perpetual Newcomer 