Safe and Sound in DC

Hi all- I arrived yesterday in DC/Arlington and am just busy settling in. We had a first meet and greet tonight and I met met some really nice folks-looks like a good batch for the 152nd (that's what we're called). Tomorrow is the first day at Main State, but it sounds more like an administrative day-benefits, photo for badge, rules etc. Biggest observations so far...
*4 inch heels are not compatible to brick sidewalks and Metro travel
*People still think it's funny to set alarm clocks to 3 a.m. in the 2nd bedroom
*I must look like a sucker as everyone is asking me for money-in fact tonight a guy on the Metro claiming to be a Marine who lost his wallet and needed help asked me for $150.00-a little much for pocket cash- although to my surprise a plain clothes Metro Cop interjected and took the guy-nice to know they are there!
*DC blocks are long-especially in 4 inch heels (can you tell my feet hurt!)
*I am a turtle
*There might be a chance that for all those years people claimed I was a bad driver they were right- wow 3 accidents barely avoided and one drive down a one-way during heavy traffic (always embarrassing) and it's only been 1 full day.
*Minnesota really is a clean place :-)

Miss you all-

Peace

On the road...

Today is the day that I am hitting the road and heading to DC. A special thanks to Susie for her amazing and obsessive map reading and road research (and to MJ for keeping the debate alive)- I think I have every available route and hotel for the next 1000 miles organized by day, distance, how tired I might get, and alternatives- you rock sister! My class at the Foreign Service Institute starts on Monday so the plan is to arrive on Saturday and unpack the unbelieveable amount of stuff that can fit in an Escape and set up house. There is a meet and greet on Sunday evening and then the journey officially begins Monday morning. This move is so exciting, but I have to say I could not imagine a group of more amazing people that I have to say "see you later" to- familiy, friends, Divas and others- you're the best-thanks for the amazing support and good wishes and for all those you have been around for the pack out a huge thank you! Keep your fingers crossed that the road is clear with no mishaps -here is to safe journeys and new adventures...

4 Day Count

Hi all- the time is here (way to soon by the way) to make my departure from what I believe to be the greatest city on Earth-St Paul- and head to DC. I'll start blogging on the regular (mostly simple, personal, only interesting to those who love me sort of stuff-so no complaints taken for lack of depth LOL).  Stay tuned...