Now that it is the end of the first month of 2015, I suppose I should finish out 2014. This month included new things, things that ended, and events, so a solid mix of life experience.
I started working as a National Test Center Administrator with University of Maryland University College. In a less fancy title, I'm a test proctor. I love being on a college campus, even if it is only part of one building. The atmosphere is where I belong, and I imagine I will be working in educational administration for quite a few years to come. I'm now certified to proctor several types of tests, some of which got me through my own undergraduate degree, so I feel right at home. UMUC is a great employer too. I'm enjoying working full time again, and having a salaried job for the first time.
Given that I have to stay behind a desk during testing sessions, I have a lot of time on my hands. I used the time to knock out both of my Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages certificates. Officially certified! Nathan also finished his first semester as a graduate student. His finals week was not fun, but he came out with great grades.
A highlight of the month and even the entire year was the annual Chaplain Corps Ball. We spent the evening going between our table with the new, young RPs, visiting with Hansen friends, and dancing to great classic music. Nathan wore his new tailored suit, and I had my first henna tattoo done to blend with my new dress for the occasion. It was a fantastic evening as expected.
Another event was a free outdoor Colbie Caillat (soft pop/indie musician) concert. It has its struggles, but military life also has its perks.
Somewhere along the line, I traded the blonde hair for violet. Done, as usual, by my own live-in stylist.
We have sons! We picked up two turtles, Calvin and Polycarp. They are small, but fully grown. Calvin loves to explore the house and will walk around for hours, but Polycarp prefers to keep his face hidden in a corner.
Christmas season is very busy at the chapels, so while I got a week off for winter break, Nathan worked a lot. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were both up in the air as far as working, but he only ended up doing a little on those days, thanks to a willing unmarried RP who volunteered to work. Since it had been so uncertain as to when he would be working, we made no plans for Christmas. But we enjoyed the day by opening gifts over Skype with the Sissons, and watching Christmas movies. We managed to get a little tree and decorate last minute, so the day felt festive.
New Years Eve was spent at the chapel, Nathan working a midnight service. We welcomed in the New Year by ringing a bell with strangers, but we felt welcomed, so it turned out to be exciting and fun. And they had a pancake breakfast at 1am, so no complaints from me!
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