Goodbyes
12/30/2008
In this final week before my departure, I'm saying goodbyes to special people and places. Today, for example, I made yet another trip to one of my favorite places in Richmond--the Unwind Yarn Shop--to use the gift certificate that Julie P. gave me for Christmas. Thanks, Julie! I came home with some lovely yarns.
This past week I also spent some special time with my Mom, my brother and his family, and my Dad. Since he is 97, and living in a nursing home, it was especially difficult to say goodbye to him because you never know what tomorrow will bring. Fortunately, he was in good spirits, and even demonstrated his curve ball and knuckleball for me. Sometimes he is living in the past, but when I told him about the Fulbright and my upcoming travel plans, he said "Good luck!" His enthusiasm was so touching (especially so, since he seldom traveled after returning home from World War II), and I couldn't hold back the tears as I left the nursing home. Thanks, Dad! And thanks to my Mom and the rest of you for supporting me in this venture.
On a lighter note, I've been thinking of things that I might miss while I'm gone. I'll miss wearing wool sweaters this winter (but of course won't mind more hours of sunshine and warmer temperatures). I'll miss my friends (that goes without saying), my kitties, game nights, seeing the fringe of spring green on the trees, and much more. But think of the places I will see and people I will meet!
Back to my lists as I countdown the days to January 4.
Happy New Year to you all!
