Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Saying Goodbye

Today's the last day of my two-week visit home and while I'm more than ready to get back to Ibis, I'm sad to say goodbye to my family. We'll see my parents in a couple months, but I don't know when I'll see my sister & her family.

That goodbye turned much sadder when half an hour before I left, they decided it was time to put down their dog, Kita. She'd been a part of the family for 13 years and her youngest in particular was very upset to see her go. I'm glad I was able to pet her one last time - a luxury I didn't have with my own dog two years ago - but it was tough driving away from the house.

Since moving to another country, my goodbyes have taken on a stronger meaning than when I was only a few hours away. You never know what might happen tomorrow, next week, or next year, and I find myself searching for a conclusion of sorts in case I never see that person again. Some of that may come from my fear of flying, but I'm sure most of it is just growing older and watching loved ones pass on.

On a lighter note, I'll also have to say goodbye to half the books I want to take with me. 24 books is a bit excessive, plus I bought 17 movies, and I'd rather not check an extra bags just for my entertainment needs. One more thing for mom when she visits in February.

My flight is early tomorrow morning, so I may not post until Thursday. Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and ... goodbye.

4 comments:

Jenna said...

I'll be praying for a safe flight. or probably more like flights.

Melanie Hooyenga said...

Yes, sadly, flights. But I should be home by mid-afternoon. :)

Janna Leadbetter said...

Melanie, your words were so touching. You expressed the exact reasons I hesitate to move away, though Hubby wishes to relocate to the mountains of Colorado.

Hope you've made it home safely... and that Ibis gave you a fabulous welcome back. ;)

Melanie Hooyenga said...

Thanks Janna. When we decided to make the move, it was his parents who needed us nearby. I just hope my parents stay healthy until we move back.