This week was the regional consular officers workshop here in D.C., so I was able to meet the eight other folks around the world who do what I do. Four of them are in their second year of this work, so it was a wonderful opportunity to learn from them. We did a couple of team building activities after work, including going to a Washington Nationals baseball game and doing an escape room – something I’d never heard of before. You’re in a room as a team and have to solve a series of puzzles to get out. Our theme room was based on popular culture from the 80s (yes, we managed to escape!). Afterward we donned some goofy hats for a photo.
My new gang
Yesterday we drove to Maryland, a little north of the Chesapeake Bay to go to a rug show at Kristin’s house. Obaid, one of our rug sellers from Islamabad had a lovely variety that he brought over, and of course we left with not one, but three. I had forgotten how much I love looking at them and the process of deciding which of these little children to bring home. With Obaid and Kristin
From there we drove to Alexandria for dinner with Kevin and Helen Stewart from Arkansas. We had a blast – they are so smart and funny. And as a bonus, Kevin’s sister Abby is a chef, so we enjoyed her wonderful cooking.
Another busy and fun week!