Tuesday, April 15, 2008

The First of the Goodbyes, Good Grades and an Engagement (No, it's not me..)

Today we bid our first farewells. We got up early and saw Kyle off. Because of his health issues, he decided to go ahead and fly home-- so that he could get everything worked out and not risk problems on free travel. A few moments ago we bid farewell to most of our crazy Knights boys, which will leave quite a void to life around here. It will be pretty quiet without them hee-hawing around the Artemis.

I have never really done well with goodbyes. Last night, Lacey showed Alana and I a slideshow she had put together. She took scenic shots from this semester and put bible verses on top of them. She is such a good photographer and is very talented in putting things like that together. Alana and I burst into tears after it was over and I started doing my I-can't-breathe cry. The one where you keep gasping for air and you sound like you need an oxygen tank. Embarrassing. Haha. I have a feeling it's the first of many to come.

It kind of stinks that we're the last group to leave because we have to notice the Artemis getting quieter and quieter. We have to see the empty tables with no one playing Spades on it-- and the livingroom couches open for once.

Though it is really hard to say goodbye, I know that all good things must come to an end. I am looking forward to being home with my family-- and feeling the effects of this trip for years to come. It's hard to move on, but it is also exciting. I feel like I have broadened my horizons and now I don't want to settle for less. I don't want to write for a podunk newspaper-- I want to work for a magazine, where I love what I'm writing and feel like I'm putting a piece of me into each article. Though coming into my own is a scary thought, it has now become more of an exciting challenge than the biggest fear of my life. Bliss and I were just talking about the exciting possibility of living in Nashville together while she goes to school and I get a job. I'm not a fan of growing up-- but this trip has made me a little more comfortable with that.

Pray for our patience as this week rolls around and as we free travel. Pray that I will keep the tears to a reasonable limit. Haha!

On a positive note, I just found out that I made an A in Humanities 270 and Humanities 201, the two hardest classes! :-) I think I probably made an A in Greek, but that hasn't been finalized yet. I won't find out about World Christian until the the semester back home is finished. I'm crossing my fingers for all A's! I got off to a rocky start, but once I got the hang of things it was more manageable. That makes this semester that much better! :-)

I just keep adding and adding to this message. I just heard a hysterical scream from Ashley and ran downstairs to see what was the matter. Nic and Carrol, one of our couples, just got engaged! I love them both and I'm so excited for them! They have been dating for a few years. She just got done showing us her ring (which is BEAUTIFUL!) and telling the story. He walked her down to the beach and asked her to make him the happiest man in the world! All the girls, of course, awed in unison. Happy times! :-) I'm glad we got to share it with them.

Unless something else happens, this entry has now come to an end. Love ya!

1 comment:

Charlann said...

Hi Honey - I remember the sad day of goodbyes mixed with gratitude that we'd had the opportunity to meet & share our lives with those we had to bid adieu. You'll re-live all those wonderful moments again & again when you read your "diary" & review your pictures. It's one of those times that keeps on giving. :) You have given us a strong desire to get there next year & see what you have seen. Are you still planning on sending us an itinerary? We'd like one if you get one together. We went to Batesville to see Kelsey's soccer game. The guys lost 4-3. It was a tough game! The girls won 2-1. The Black & Gold football game is this Saturday & I think Kelsey is coming down to see it. Congratulations on the wonderful grades! That's the cherry on top of the whipped cream. I hope these last few days go well for you. We'll get your luggage for you when it comes to Searcy. Take care, sweetie. We are really looking forward to your return! Love, Mimi