A farewell letter

I. Am. So. Excited! 

Leslee's coming back to Chicago this weekend, ever since she and hubby moved almost four weeks ago. It's been a bit lonely since a handful of my closest friends here have left the state in what seems like a mass exodus over the past few weeks. The sad fact is, I've had many good pals trickle away over the last year+. I'm practically a pro at sending people off by now.

In preparation for L's visit, around which we planned my early birthday celebration to coincide, I came across an email draft of my goodbye card to L & A. (Yes, call me neurotic, but I like preparing drafts before writing on a beautiful card!)–

L + A,

This isn't going to be as eloquent as farewell letters ought to be, but here's my attempt –

When I woke this morning, I knew something felt different: my stomach felt a touch empty and my mind quite restless – and then I remembered today is the day you leave Chicago! In a way, it's almost anticlimactic because this day has been so long coming, that it never felt real. In fact, it was surreal! I spent a lot of time thinking about the last three years – almost as long a period as other life-changing milestones such as high school and college! – and how the four of us have truly come to know, love, and appreciate each others' friendship; the fun times we've had as we connected through a dedicated program; and of course, Book Club (and Alcohol Club). We're trying not to wallow too much in our sadness about how our lives are going to change with you gone, but then, we remember that this is about you guys and your new life ahead with all Very Good Things to come – home, family, career! And so we smile and feel nostalgic excitement for you as you move on as we did once before three years ago, embrace wonderful changes, and of course, keep in touch (FOR REALZ!) with all the juicy N.C. gossip, ok?!

Lots of love,
Jamie, Shawn, and FurFur

I'll be writing another farewell card to dear M & H in just a few weeks. *Sigh.*