Since getting the news a few weeks ago about DH’s deployment, I’ve been in a bit of tailspin.

He’d decided to retire at 20 years. He’s got a bit less than 18 in currently.

Considering that, I’d decided that sometime next summer, I would start the search for a job somewhere we’d like to live for the rest of our lives. (Honestly, Kansas summers are too hot. Maybe I’m a wimp, but I like being able to do things outdoors without turning into a puddle. And nice as LittleUtown is, it’s just not the right place for long term.) I get to pick this time. *grin*

Alaska is the dream location. Don’t know if it will ever be the reality.

So, we’ve had a few discussions about the where. Somewhere cooler definitely where there is snow in the winter and maybe not so much ice. States under consideration are Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. (Sorry all you southern types. I enjoy visiting, but that’s about it!)

DH’s retirement will be pushed back at least a few months because it’s likely that stop loss will go into effect. (Meaning no one gets out until the deployment is over…for almost any reason.) At first, I thought, I’d just wait until he returns to start looking. Or at least wait until later in his deployment.

Applying for the AK job seems to have inspired me to start the serious search…um…now. Since I’m okay with where I’m at currently, it gives me the luxury of applying where I want and for jobs that I’m really interested in. It’s interesting that many people I talk to always have their eyes open for a better opportunity, even if they like where they are at the moment. Wonder what that’s all about. Does it have something to do with being ready when opportunity knocks?

I can’t predict what the future will bring. I may be right where I am when DH deploys. I might still be here when he returns. Like always, I’m just taking it one day at a time. And like always, I kind of make it up as I go along. This is probably why I’ve survived so long as an Army wife. *laugh*