9/19/07

The Long Goodbye!

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Two weeks and I'm on my way to LA and then Tonga. I've started in on the packing; trying to get an idea of what my stuff will weigh. I got my new Osprey pack in the mail yesterday and already have it loaded full, only slightly over 25lbs. I know the duffel will be heavier, but things are looking good to meet the 80lbs maximum for checked baggage.

The past week has been spent meeting up with friends for lunches, movies and drinks to say goodbyes. I was able to see some folks from AOL for lunch last week and that was great. On Friday, a night out with the boys, some bar hopping and lots of drinks and then Saturday another night of ridiculousness with one of my oldest friends and other folks. I think I have one or two more lunches, and I'm sure to have one last crazy night out with friends, but really trying to lay low not spend anymore money and certainly stay out of any trouble.

With every goodbye, comes the realization that in two years when I return, things will be different. I will be different, my friends and family will be different, everything around me... will be different. In two weeks, I will say goodbye to my life as I know and welcome a new path in my life. I certainly am sad to say goodbye to all of my friends, but know that in two weeks, it will not only be about goodbyes, but greetings. I'll be meeting a group of people that will have an incredible impact on my life. The truth of the situation is that in two weeks I will probably be meeting people that will be apart of the rest of my life. That's exciting, I'm excited! I look forward to the future, while spending as much of my remaining time here in Virginia, with friends and family treasuring my past.