Cinco de Mayo

Today was a fun day, because we finally got to get some practical training on the gear we'll be responsible for. We all got issued super-tough laptops, and I was in my element doing software installs in a few minutes, and then spending a few hours helping some others who were having difficulty. (Mom, you're not the only one!) I'm really looking forward to the work I'm going to be doing. It will be interesting, somewhat fun, and very important. I realized somewhat belatedly that it was Cinco de Mayo, and didn't take advantage of the taco bar at the DFAC. But it's just not the same without a cerveza or a margarita, both of which were forbidden. I guess I'll just have to find other holidays to celebrate. I'm settling into somewhat of a routine here, which is good for the time being. Time is passing and I'm remaining motivated. I'm still not settled at my final destination, though, so another good thing keeping the time moving is the anticipation of the next stage. It's easier to think of the next few days, or the next week, than try to wrap your brain around the next year. I've explored enough to have figured out all the shortcuts between the places I need to go each day, and am learning new things, too. Like how the Australian contingent here has a swimming pool (and, we suspect, alcohol!) I keep looking for a down-under "mate" to befriend, but haven't seen one yet.