Sweet Sorrow

Thus far, my goodbyes have been fairly painless. My friends are certainly near and dear to my heart- my pillars of strength, support, and laughter, but I've been able to manage my tears quite well. I've been biting my lip, giving hearty hugs and a few high fives- no tears! I thought I was just a brave, brave soul....yeah, I was wrong.

Apparently, I've been rationing out tiny portions of emotions only to find that there was actually a reservoir in waiting. It just so happens that my adventurous parents had planned an elaborate trip to Canada with friends. It just so happens that they had concocted this plan long before Europe was more than a dream, and therefore, they left four days in advance to my departure.

"No big deal", I thought. I'll probably enjoy the alone time; I mean, I'd heard my dad's ill-timed jokes multiple times. My ever-maternal mom had left a lengthy and detailed to-do list that even included "get to airport to fly to Dublin" in huge font.

Thanks, Mom.

I anticipated that I'd be somewhat relieved to say goodbye....wrong again.

I dropped them off early this morning and low and behold, my grief poured over like a waterfall. I have been a blubbering mess since 7 am this morning. I cried sorting the mail, walking the dogs, and checking my e-mail. What's come over me? I sincerely love my parents, but my God, I've lived apart from them for nearly ten years.

I turned to a dear old friend for comfort- a faithful companion that has never let me down.

Bunny Tracks ice cream. I'm recovering nicely.

My only theory is that this was simply the pent up goodbyes that have been hiding behind my courageous facade.

So Kelly, Ellie, Caris, Shelley, Jeff, Kerry, Sara, Rhetta, Alex, Kristin, Kelsey, and more- a few of those tears were for you. I'll miss you much.

Lucky Duck

Already feeling rather struck with luck to have my beautiful friend travel cross country for a final visit. Can you tell who's who?

Leap Year? Hardly...

One of the wonderful things about moving abroad is the tremendous amount of cookies cakes purchased.

It's been an interesting journey to get to where I'm at, and I'm frequently met with the cocked head and surprised stare- "You are just moving? Like that?" I wish that I had an exciting rationale or an inspirational story, but the truth is, my story is not nearly as compelling as Elizabeth Gilbert's or that cute red head from Leap Year (and yes, I saw it approximately 6 weeks ago, and it may or may not have influenced my decision). No broken heart or wine-induced epiphany- just the realization that without a job that I loved, a husband, or mortgage- I was as "free" as a bird to do and live as I please.

Don't get me wrong, I'm eternally grateful for this gift. The prospect of meeting people on exciting adventures, sampling foods and wines that don't even exist in Charlotte- is absolutely appealing to the likes of me. I've committed to make this blog minimally annoying as possible, but I cannot guarantee that you will not want to slap me when I post pictures of Giant's Causeway or the Canary Islands...

Why, you ask?

Because when I saw this ad,

I simply had to oblige:

Wanted: a nanny for two adorable children
If you want this choice position
Have a cheery disposition
Rosy cheeks, no warts!
Play games, all sorts

You must be kind, you must be witty
Very sweet and fairly pretty
Take us on outings, give us treats
Sing songs, bring sweets

Never be cross or cruel

Never give us castor oil or gruel
Love us as a son and daughter
And never smell of barley water

If you won't scold and dominate us

We will never give you cause to hate us
We won't hide your spectacles
So you can't see
Put toads in your bed
Or pepper in your tea

Hurry, Nanny!
Many thanks

Sincerely,
J & M