The end of an era- or 15 months

 I knew within the first month that the job I took at the embassy here (Assistant Coordinator in the Community Liaison Office or CLO) wasn't really going to be the ideal position for me. But, there was a huge need for this position to be filled and I knew I could help a lot of people in our community. So, challenge accepted. And there are some future employment benefits with the State Department if you work as a civil servant for a minimum of 12 months. So not knowing what my future career might be, I did not want to throw away any opportunities.

And while I did not love every day, I liked most. I do think I made an impact and strengthen our community. And I worked not only my 12 months, but 15 months. Amazing right? Ha! A friend said they really should have given me a "15 months of service" pin. 

While Brian and I did not work along side each other, it sure was great to work in the same mission together. He helped me tremendously, and I'd say I helped him a teeny tiny bit too. And although he was often already working during our alone time in the car during our morning commute, I will miss that time together- 

I hate to throw anything away. And I hate to waste paper! So i quickly started tearing up paper and keeping it for when i just needed to jot down a quick note. Who needs a proper Post It note, when you have a stack like this-

Julie, my boss, used to go bonkers over my little notes everywhere. She was so concerned about me losing them. Nope, never did. I never got through that stack of paper, and hated tossing it into the recycling bin. It still had so much purpose left!

My office took me out for a lovely luncheon on my last day- 

Sadly, Alifa could not join us that day. 

Julie put together a beautiful list of my characteristics that all matched a letter of my name-

Julie left the office in December and my new boss, Stacie quickly jumped right in-

While we will miss the paycheck, I will not miss going to work. And my family will not miss the sacrifices that they all made which allowed me to be at work 30+ hours a week. My favorite job is mom & wife and I'm delighted to be returning to that most precious role!