Here we go...

So what is this "next step" that I've been so ready for? Mommyhood! Today I am 38 weeks pregnant with our first child - a little boy. I've felt ready for a child for quite some time, so to be on the brink of having one is very exciting.

My husband and I have been married for almost 3 years. He joined the Air Force in February 2009 - partly so that we could better afford to have a child. There were other reasons as well, of course, but free health care and a guaranteed living wage for at least four years was a compelling reason. Imagine our surprise when we found out our first duty station after his tech school was RAF Lakenheath in England. We had hoped to go international at some point in his career, but didn't expect it so soon! It's been an adjustment, but we are enjoying living over here. Plus, it's pretty neat that our son will be born in a different country, with the possibility of dual citizenship (still need to check on that, though).

Even though we moved overseas midway through my graduate program, I managed to finish my Master of Public Health degree in June 2010, thanks to a crammed Summer 2009 schedule, online classes, a few flexible professors and a very dedicated advisor. It's hard to find a job in my field over here (the base is out in the countryside, 2 hours outside of London), which has been frustrating. I'm torn between wanting to be a stay-at-home mom while my baby is young, and using this degree that I worked so hard for, that's in a field I'm really passionate about. Not to mention the student loans that are hanging over my head. :)

I finally feel inspired to write again - now that my life is about to change so much. Moving to England was a big change, but I don't think it'll compare to caring for a tiny human. Hopefully you'll find my journey as interesting as I do!