Saying good-bye

This afternoon I had to say good-bye to an amazing person. Tomorrow she and her family hop on a plane and land in another country, ready to start a new chapter in their lives. I am excited for them, or I am trying to be, but I'd rather have them here! Selfish, yes, very. She's returning to her home, her family and friends, but I am allowing myself to feel sooky today, for I am losing a good friend who lived in close proximity.

Here's the thing...it was a mere 15-20min walk between our houses, yet we didn't get together every week or even every month. She has 3 little ones and is very busy, I am busy with my own things, but I always knew she was there. It is rare to meet someone who is such a kindred spirit; we share similar parenting philosophies, marriage philosophies, faith and even life expectations. In my town most people are shocked to learn that Dave and I are from different countries and are looking to move to one or more countries in our future, it's just unheard of here. Not so with her, not only has her family lived in several countries, but she seemed to think it was normal as well :)

This afternoon Delanah and I were able to stop by for about an hour. We chatted, I helped scrub down a fridge, I delivered my wonderful stick figure drawings that I promised her months ago and gave her a birthday present to deliver to her youngest in a few days when he turns 2. Then it was time to go. They leave tomorrow night, but the countdown began a long time ago. I remember that feeling, the house is packed up, items on their way, scrubbing has happened, last minute errands run, it was time to start the adventure. Here's where I am struggling...I am used to being the one leaving. I get to say good-bye and move on to a new adventure. I get to meet new people and keep my friends that I left behind. I'm not used to this new role, and I don't like it one bit.

Seeing her empty house made her departure real. Hugging her precious kiddos made it more real. Knowing I wasn't going to get to see them grow up, knowing she wasn't going to meet any future kiddos of mine for a long time, yeah, it started sinking in. I know the rule, it's never good-bye, it's until next time...that's a lot easier to say when you're the one leaving!

Saying good-bye sucks, no matter what pretty dressing you put on it.