It’s been a while since I’ve provided an update because there hasn’t been much to update on. I received additional information on the reasons for my non-clearance on June 6. There are three concerns, two related to my medications. The third is related to an injury I sustained last fall. The medication issues are likely showstoppers.

Nonetheless, on the 15^th, I submitted an appeal addressing their concerns with my explanation of why these should not be concerns supported by additional documentation from three physicians. Peace Corps’ generic information says that the appeal board meets “regularly.” So, I’m not sure when I will hear a response, but it should be relatively soon. I’m hoping by the end of the month.

In the meantime, the Uganda 2022 cohort is continuing to get more info and non-medical tasks. I have let my desk officer know that I’m working on a long-shot medical appeal. She’s recommended that I continue to complete tasks so that if I do get medical clearance, everything else is in place. With that in mind, I’ve watched a video on Peace Corps history and today applied for my Uganda visa. Still, I do these with half a heart knowing I’m probably not going.

I’m thinking about what comes next without Peace Corps. Likely some travel and hiking this summer and fall. Then possibly some work, as without the Peace Corps my financial picture is not as rosy as it looked when I decided to leave my job last fall.

And, what happens with this blog. I’ll do at least one more entry to wrap things up when I have the last word from Peace Corps. Then, I expect I’ll transition over to another domain and continue to do some writing. More information to come…

Photo

You all are going to think my major hobby is taking pictures of birds, it’s not really, but I have had some fun opportunities lately. This week, with the super moon came super low tides and an opportunity to walk parts of the beach not normally accessible. Two friends and I did a 6.5-mile hike and saw lots of critters – this great blue heron and also flounders, razor clams, kelps, barnacles, turtles, little fish, jelly fish, crabs, anemones, starfish, and squirty things (I can’t remember their name!).

And here’s another picture because this heron was so beautiful.