AirBUZ,

I'm curious, during your interview were you asked "how you feel about" or "are you aware of" the first year pay? I'm not trying to be antagonistic, it's just that I was asked no fewer than 3 times throughout the process if I felt I could handle it. I wonder/hope they're making a concerted effort to make sure people are making the decision to go to F9 with eyes wide open.

As for your situation, best of luck. I hope a new contract keeps you in the states closer to your family and gets you in the black quickly.