bravagal, so glad you are back safe and sound. Chicago, actually Rosemont, is next week but my boss thinks I am so smart it is turning into just a one day training trip instead of more. Good or bad, it is how it is. No time to play this time. Boohoo.
Odd you mention waiting to have kids or adopting. For all my younger years I waited to start a family until the right time. I guess the right time never came. I wasn't horribly upset, I always felt I would be better with toddlers on up than with babies, and I wanted to adopt or be a foster parent. I always let myself be talked out of that plan, and for that I am sorry. It is not too late to change that missed part of my life moving forward if the H obstacle steps out my way. Of course there are always the comments about 'how lucky you are that you don't have kids during a D.' I just smiled with no good way to respond while the noise of my heart ripping apart drowned out my thoughts.
Looking forward to hearing more about Japan job offers and deal breakers. When you are not sleep deprived of course.
Live your life while you are still living. Riding the trail less traveled.