They really should have a disclaimer before you enter security briefing that says something along the lines of: "we completely understand if you quit after this briefing, but would like you to know you're a valuable asset to this Embassy and would prefer you didn't..."

Recap of the day:


Made it to work on time! But was in such a hurry to get to my desk to try and catch my roommate before she left the apartment, that I blew right past the Deputy Minister Consular for the Political Office... pretty much like the head of the section, whom I hadn't met yet.  He stopped me and introduced himself, but I felt bad.


Ambassador was sick, but the DCM, Deputy Chief of Mission, like second in command, stood in for him... he's really nice.  There's a reception at the Spasso House, the Ambassador's residence, later this week so maybe I'll meet him there.


Had security briefing and got my real badge so I can actually get into my office without knocking now lol.  BUT... oh my goodness. Security briefing is flipping scary.  Like of all the places in the world to get posted, I am now convinced this is the worst.  I don't know if you know the history of the US Embassy in Moscow, but it's common knowledge that the Embassy was built 1 and a half times because the first time it was so riddled with listening devices that not one thing could be considered classified.  As a result, they took off the top half and rebuilt with 100% American supplies shipped in in security containers and with American contractors.  That's why there's another post at floor 5, everything from there is under crazy security.  I've heard that story, but being here now, it makes so much more sense.  They've pretty much conceded that anything below floor five is not confidential.  The things they tell you in the briefing, like what to look out for, what happens, etc... goosebumps.


And other than that I've just been vegging out at home... haven't slept well yet so I'm headed to bed.