Hot Diggity Dog

Last Friday i was CRUSHED.  I had not gotten the expected Article 5 Notice.  I called Steve at the agency, and he told me "well it had been taking 3 weeks, but now it's looking more like 4 weeks"  well where does that put me in terms of travel?  "looks like the 2nd December group, the one leaving December 13".  

in China by December 13.  to be exact, in Dylan's province ON December 13th.  That would mean missing the kids dance recital, missing the lead up to it, (extra rehearsals, hair appts, make up application, picture day, dress rehearsals)  who would do all of that with the kids?  I'd also be gone for Christmas.  Something i didn't think would bother me.   Turns out it did bother me.   Add to this the slight warning Steve issued, "during the holidays, it's not always easy to get appts, and appts made with the US Consulate, can sometimes be changed.)  So I'd risk being in China longer than expected.  Given ANY other month, this would be pretty cool.  But December is also high season so the flights, hotels, etc are at a premium.   I was crushed.  this was the worst news i could get (yeah there are far more worserere things, but on Friday THIS was the WORST).

Discussions with Jeff pursued.  I told him i could not be in the December 13th group.  (he wanted me to travel in 2013 so we'd get the tax credit.  screw the money i yelled!!)  I was not willing to miss the kids dance recital and spending Christmas with them.  That would mean I'd be leaving early January instead.  But, that would also mean Dylan would spend a whole extra month, alone, without her family, without us.  Peering into the future, i saw myself sad and miserable on Christmas Day.  Dylan should be with us.  She should be home with her family.  This is all wrong.   Talk about your Sophie's Choice.  Abandon my two kids to bring Dylan home, or neglect Dylan to be home with David and Emma.  Both scenarios miserable. a no win either way.

well, today Tuesday, i got an email saying i got my Article 5 Notice!   yippity dippity dawg!!!!   I rushed to tell Todd Travel Guy and of course he blew my bubble by warning, "you haven't gotten TA yet, let's wait til you get that before booking any flights.  TA's could take 2 to 4 weeks"

okay so today i tell  myself  BREATHE... just breathe.   please breathe.  I'm sure I'm experiencing mild panic attacks.  I've been an unbearable beast at home to all.  I am not a pleasant person when I'm stressed.  and I'm oh so stressed.

Dylan needs to be home with us now.  I just want her home so we can begin the business of being a family!