Yemen?

Hello! It's been a while and lots has changed so I thought I'd send a small update from the other side of the pond. I start a new job in September, working for the U.S. Department of State as a Foreign Service Officer. After they train me to be a diplomat for a year or so here in DC I'll be headed ... somewhere. At the end of October I'll find out where the government wants me to go live, but it's a good bet it won't be the Embassy or any U.S. Representations in Brussels - more like Ouagodougou or Bujumbura. I'm going to be starved for visitors, though, so I'll let you all know where I'm going so you can plan exotic vacations!

And speaking of exotic vacations, I'm leaving to go to Yemen in a week. I'll be in Sana'a for three weeks visiting a friend and taking some more Arabic. Should be a good chance to unwind, though sadly my respect for local customs will prevent me from working on my tan.

Hope every single one of you is doing fabulously! I think of you all often and certain days - like this rainy morning! :) - make me miss Maastricht tremendously.

Take care,
Alison