The Most Terrifying Question in the Foreign Service

We are an amazing 10 days from our home leave back to ALABAMA! We are just a little bit excited and we may or may not have a countdown going on.  We actually may or may not have several countdowns going
ME: phone countdown
Ella: How many more days she has to get up for school.
Anna: well, who am I kidding - my little free spirit just gets up every day and says "How much longer?"

Anyway - I am in the process of making all kinds of doctor appointments and camp and VBS registrations.  It's kind of funny trying to make appointments from overseas.  First of all, I have to call at 9:00pm.  Once I get someone on the phone.  They ask the most terrifying question of all which is WHAT ADDRESS DO YOU HAVE ON FILE WITH US?  Now when you have moved three times int he past year, and have used your parents' (both sets) addresses for various foreign service forms, there is a tiny wave of panic that washes over you when asked this question.  Here is a recent example from a conversation with my insurance company. 

Me: I'm calling from Sri Lanka and I need to know if the dermatologist I've chosen in Birmingham is covered under my insurance.
Operator:  Would you like me to call you back so the call won't cost you as we explore your coverage?
Me: Yes please!  The number is Country Code 94 blah blah blah.  Oh Wait.  That is the wrong number.  It's country code 94 blah blah blah.  Sorry, the last four digit are close to a previous number.
He rings me back.
Me: Hello
Operator: Hello, lets get a couple of questions out of the way to verify your identity.  What is the address you have on file with us?
Me: blah blah blah Dulles, VA.
Operator: hmmmmm
Me: oh wait is it blah blah blah Opelika, Alabama?
Operator: ummmm
Me: Try blah blah blah Reston, VA
Operator: That's it... I am just truly amazed that you people can remember so many addresses.

And in case you're wondering; I'm covered ;-)

More Stories to Come...
Jennifer