Bittersweet goodbyes

It's hard to believe these three months went by so fast! And although I am more than excited to go spend some time with Patrick and see all my friends from home, saying goodbye is always difficult. I have had such a great summer. Being able to spend this time with my mom, my step-sisters and Gregg has been amazing. Getting some OT experience has been a lot of fun, and I learned a lot more than I thought I would from it. And working at Pier 1 here has allowed me to meet some truly wonderful people.  It was my last day there today.  I walked into the back to get my apron, and I saw this lovely surprise waiting for me on the breakroom table:

This was so unexpected and soo sweet! That wrapped up thing in the corner is a candle that one of my coworkers made for me! It was so thoughtful! And she knew that I loved vanilla and the color pink, so it was just perfect! So many of these girls have given me their phone numbers and emails to keep in touch. I've just never felt this much love from any of my coworkers anywhere! I am really going to miss them. If everything works out, though, I really plan to go back, so I hope it's not goodbye forever!

And as if that wasn't enough, I came home to find this sitting on the kitchen table:

A cute goodbye cake from my mom and Gregg. Really too nice! I'm tellin' you, I am feeling the love hahah! I've really enjoyed staying with them. It's definitely hard for all of us to say goodbye! It's rough going to school so far away because visits are inconvenient. I imagine the next time I come down won't be until around Christmas. Again, it's just sad.

I'm going to miss the South in general. Everyone is so friendly down here, the weather has been nice for the most part, and it's really just beautiful!

And I am going to miss passing ponies on my way to work! And the low gas prices! And Cheerwine and Moon Pies! And the pool! The list could go on and on haha. But as much as I am going to miss everything and everyone down here, I'm still super psyched to go spend some time with my friends and loved ones up North! And before I know it I'll be back at school, and I'm excited for that too!

If all goes well (meaning if weather permits), I'll be making the trip up to Patrick tomorrow! I can't wait to see him and his family! I love staying with them on their farm. It is beautiful! I will have to take some pictures to share. But for now I should be getting to bed so I can be well-rested for the big drive tomorrow!

Lots of love!
- Jamie