A Chapter Ends

I've said goodbye to my part time job in town. I started there almost four years ago. It was a new experience for me (no plastic bottles! no horses!). And though this is a small town, everyone there was a stranger to me, and I to them. What a difference a few years can make.

Those strangers became dear friends. Many light moments and laughs were shared. Many difficult times were discussed and tears were shed (okay, most of the tears were mine - look at me funny and I cry - those other two are SO strong).

Those strangers became an inspiration. I learned so much more than my job. They taught me about faith, perseverance, selflessness, and "rolling with the punches". About caring, and kindness, and acceptance.

I know this isn't goodbye forever. They will always be my friends. But I will really miss our twice weekly contact. The catch-up talks at the start of the day. The odd story in the middle of the day. The talk of future plans at the end of the day.

Though I couldn't have known it when I took the job, I am so thankful now that I did, and for the friends that came of it.

Friend. Isn't that warm, pleasant, rich, comforting word? One of my favorites.

Home

Home.

That's another of my favorite words.

Such strong feelings that word can evoke. I remember home when I was a kid. It was home when Mom & Dad were both there. It was home when my older "moved out" siblings came for dinner. I remember feeling bad for Mom & Dad 'cause they couldn't go home to their parents house and how hard that must be. I couldn't imagine moving out and not living with Mom & Dad.

Well, things change. Now, home is where Scott is. It feels more like home when he's there. Home is having all the kids & grandkids come visit.

Home. I really like that word.

Sister

I've been thinking about favorite words lately and I think "sister" is one of them. I love when I call my sister and she answers the phone "Hello, sister." Warm feelings ensue. I love reading comments from my sister; they are like mini-letters. Warm feelings ensue.




I like the shared memories.
I like the hugs.
I like the teasing.
I like the caring.

A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost. ~Marion C. Garretty