As most of you know we’re only going to be in KSA for two years, leaving June 2019. Where we’re moving next remained to be seen though. There is a process every year, where people learn about open positions, apply for those of interest and then get matched. I touched on this a few posts back when I referenced J’s Riyadh placement. It’s liberating for me to let go of control…to an extent. J and I discussed extensively where he’d apply for 2019. To be honest, there were only two positions that made sense for him – Cairo and Amman.
I'm fine with either. First, they’re relatively safe (it wouldn’t be accompanied if it wasn’t). Second, Starcom (Publicis) has offices in both. And third, we know people who have lived in either location that have spoken well of these cities. Plus, when you’re coming from Riyadh any other accompanied post in the Middle East is going to seem like a breeze. I jokingly refer to both cities as Muslim-lite.
It's not a given we’d be staying overseas though. Someone at J’s level doesn’t always get back-to-back overseas posts. With only two positions and the pool being highly competitive, we had to be realistic and open to the possibility of J getting placed back in D.C. Neither of us are eager to go back to Virginia though. We’ve really enjoyed our time and look forward to more adventures and experiences that we’d never get otherwise. Like all things, I knew it would work out for the best for us. I also had a strong feeling we’d be staying in the region.
Last week the matches were announced and we’re going to Cairo in October 2019! We’re really excited. It says tremendous things for J and all of the work he’s done here so far. This is definitely a reward for his hard work and he’s going to get to do more of that in Cairo. I’m so proud of him (in case you couldn’t tell)!
I know this in tough on our family and friends back home, especially our parents who want to spend time with their grandchildren. I definitely felt a tinge of surprise and disappointment that we’re continuing overseas AND staying in the region. The upside is that we’ll be back in the States for summer 2019 and get lots of time with everyone then. In Cairo, I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to work and continue Arabic (as well as this blog!). The Gents will start nursery school with an international group of children and be exposed to more than I could have ever imagined myself at that age. Baby girl will also get to experience life in the region and hopefully have some memories there. It’s awing to think of all the historical and religious significance Cairo holds!
Yes, there are a lot of sacrifices that we make, but the positive outweighs the negative. Not many adults, let alone children, can say they’ve lived in these places. We get to do this as a family. It’s so much more sweet than bitter.
So when you’re thinking of exotic places to visit, keep Cairo in mind. Or if you’re want to meet up in Europe, let us know where you’re traveling and maybe we can link up. Looking forward to sharing more adventure with you all over the next few years. xo