We just found out that our next assignment is Jonathan going to IRAQ for a 1 year unaccompanied tour. He will continue his Special Agent work there and be doing special ops with Intelligence and will leave next June '09.
Being in the foreign service, you can stay in the States a maximum of 5 years. We have enjoyed staying and due to the kids' medical issues, haven't felt right about going anywhere else overseas quite yet. Although this year was the first year we felt like we could go (Brasil, Rome, etc) we also knew that it was inevitable that Jonathan would have to go to the Middle East sooner or later. So we chose for him to leave sooner. While the kids are still young. If we left to go somewhere overseas for 3 years, only to come back and have him leave to do Iraq for a year then, it would be so hard as the kids would be older and understand more. As it is now, myself, Austin and Ash are all set up in activities, school, friends, etc. Things will be just fine.
He'll serve on the Secretary of State's detail until June, and then he'll leave. He can come home 3 times in the year for a couple of weeks each visit.
We have prayed about this decision we've made and we feel good about it. The timing seems right and if it has to happen, we'd want it to happen now. I know that the Lord will watch out over all of us while he's away.
10 comments:
I hope you know that we will be here for you and your kiddos while Jonathan is away. I know this could not have been an easy decision and you are one of the only women I know strong enough to be able to do it. Selfishly, I am so happy that you will be around for at least another year. We love you Ang!
Just wanted you to know that I will be praying for you guys. I know how hard of a decision this was for you guys and I commend you for being so strong. You've always be an inspiration to me. If you need anything at all... now, then or later, please don't hesitate to call. We miss you guys!
Stay safe!
Candace
Goose, if anyone can handle it, you guys can. You have a great support network and faith will really help you get through. Jonathan knows how to keep himself safe and will have all of us praying for him back here. We'll have you in our thoughts and prayers throughout. And Virginia gets to keep you and the kids for another year!
Wow, I don't know what to say. At least you'll know where you'll be for the next while. We'll be praying for all of you.
Angie- I second Erika's thoughts! We have your back. Know your family is loved and we will be here for whatever you need!!
angie,
i know we don't know each other very well (or at all), but i hope that you know that if you ever need anything, like a place to eat dinner or to drop your kids off for a couple of hours i am the person to call. i can't wait to get to know you better.
Wow! That is not going to be easy- but you are the gal to do it. I so admire your faith. I'm here to help too!
I volunteer Travis to watch your kiddos so you can get much needed girl time. I'm glad that you'll be in our area longer than expected. Our prayers will be with you JT. Don't worry, JT, we'll ALL help take care of your family. :)
You sure are in great hands there in Gainesville. I don't know of any family loved more than you cool Tolers! :)
Angie- that made me get teary-eyed. I have been such a slacker about checking blogs and this was really shocking to me! I am so proud of you guys for having so much faith. We will help out as much as possible! Seriously! You are such a good example of courage and positive attitude! Way to go and I am so glad that you will be here a bit longer.
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