9/7 - This is the twilight of my time in Porterville.
Subconsciously, I'm already planning on living in Cherbourg. I'm keeping my options open by sending out resumes, but the prospect of living in France seems to be the most real idea right now. Along with another career possibility, the way forward is clear. It will cost $110 for a long-stay visa in France (stays more than 90 days).
I want to chase a career as a Foreign Services Officer (FSO) with the State Department. This essentially means being a diplomat who represents the United States all over the world. I watched a video last week about the career, and I was in awe for a full 12 minutes. I saw myself in each of those people, and I very much want to chase that path. I was inspired.
The first step is to register for a FSO test. The next window to take this test is in October, so that gives me three months to study. I took the practice test last week, and with zero preparation I scored a 92; a passing mark was 100. Knowing this made me a bit more confident, but I still want to give myself the best chance possible of passing it.
This all fits in with moving to France as well. During the next testing window, I can take the test in Paris. The move would not interfere with this process, which will be long. The test is the first step, and there are nine in all. It'll be a long road for sure, but the most important thing that matters is that I finally know what I want to do with my life. It's too bad I didn't realize this when I was still in school, but it's better late than never.
17/9 - Goodbye, Ducati.
I sold the Ducati today, finally. While I took a huge hit on it, I still got a good chunk of money that will help with future plans, most notably France. That bike gave me some excellent fun, but it was time to move on. The lesson learned from being a Ducati owner is to do more extensive research on a make and model, including making sure I will be able to afford to maintain it. No regrets! I'll even have another motorcycle video in the next few weeks for you all to feast your eyes upon.
On Wednesday I will make another trek to Los Angeles, this time for a test that could lead to an interview if I pass. This is with the LA Community College District for the Public Information Officer position. I'd like to see where this goes because it's a good career opportunity, but the list of positive reasons to move to France keeps growing. But, if all goes well I will have a choice between Los Angeles and France.
One aspect of France that is so enticing is the fact I'll live by myself for the first time in my life. I have never not had a roommate. Add to that the fact I will live within walking distance of the train station and ferry terminal, and this is something that just seems right. I'm a traveler, and Cherbourg is the perfect base to do that. This is the way forward. It feels right, especially because of the fact I can fly to Paris from Oakland, CA for $265 on Tuesday, Sept. 6.
I have been in a much better mood lately and can tolerate Porterville. In fact I'm looking at the positives about the city again, which is of course the location. There are some good hikes just on the edge of the city and great people here. All of this stems from the fact I can now see a way out of Porterville; I will leave this place soon. Also, there are new people starting at work, so the stressful chapter is likely behind me, likely to be looked back upon and laughed at.
Finally, my parents visited this weekend; it's always great to see them. They even got the chance to see the ranch in Springville and meet Mr. Boo, Spirit and the rest of the cattle and horses that call it home. But most importantly, they brought me a handful of bottles of wine. Cheers!
18/7 - The first day at work knowing one person in particular was gone forever was excellent. The mood in the office was so relaxed and our spirits were higher. It goes to show how much the atmosphere and chemistry of a workplace can be improved by removing a cancer.
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