If You Leave Me Now...

This summer is filled with sad goodbyes. Lots of families we love are heading west. I know I can't expect them not to accept better jobs in far away cities just because it messes up my social life, but it won't stop my sadness or complaining.

I loved working with Cynthia in church and felt a special connection with her once I realized she went to high school with my brother-in-law, who knew her as a peppy cheerleader. Wouldn't it have been great to see her do a cheer? I asked, but she refused. It was so easy to make her laugh and so fun to hang out with her. My children love William and could play with him all day. He was always pleasant to babysit because of his happy personality. They're very sad they don't get to hold the baby as she grows up.

I'll never forget the day Bradford called me and asked me to record some political debate that I didn't know people really watched. But he came over and watched hours and hours of politicians arguing -- and he didn't even fall asleep. Like Cliff Clavin from Cheers, he was always full of tons of facts and information.

As if it wasn't depressing enough to lose them, now Jenni is also heading west with her great family. I had so many plans with them that now are shattered: Adrian tutoring Alec in math through his middle school and high school years when Chris was gone; Sophie & Sophia being life-long friends; Selena marrying Ben, so our families could spend Thanksgiving together; and of course, Jenni & I wearing our Edward Cullen shirts as we watch the new Twilight movie together and then have a gab fest all night about how amazing Edward is.

Thanks for the great memories -- you've given us another excuse to visit the west.