The Start of the Lasts

We are starting into the lasts.  The last time to see friends, the last activities together, the lasts before everything changes at the end of the month.  Lasts are hard.  It feels much harder this time though.  I think it's because I have worked so hard here to build networks and friendships.  I've had to rely on these friends in different ways than I had to before. 

At glass last week, the gang organized a farewell celebration.  I was so touched by their kindness, especially because I feel like they've given me way more than I could ever repay.  I have learned so many things from them.

Last Wednesday, I gave a talk at our Enrichment Meeting about friendship and how to make friends.  Who would have every thought that I would be qualified to give a talk like that, but there are definitely things I've learned in the past few years. I think that was one of the reasons we moved out here, so that I could learn those lessons.  Heavenly Father sure has a plan for our lives and helps us to become better.

It was an interesting night because we did a speed friendshipping activity.  We did this same activity two years ago and I remember knowing maybe 4 people.  At the activity last week, I knew every person I talked to by name and a few things about them.  What a difference from a couple of years ago. 

We went into Eastern Market on Saturday and I felt nostalgic the whole time.  That was probably the last time we'll be there in a long time, if ever.  It's been one of those places that I loved, a place that was always uplifting.

We enjoyed some Italian hot chocolate at Pitangelo's (yum!) and it reminded me of going there right after Leo was born.  Like I said, I was just pretty nostalgic and sentimental about the whole thing.  That's really what I've been feeling lately though.

I keep thinking in terms of lasts and it makes me sad.  I finally feel settled and good and it's time to move on.  It's time to say goodbye to some really good things, some good friends.  I know it sounds cheesy, but I hope that I don't forget what I learned here and the relationships we made here.  We're moving on but I feel like a different, a better person.  I don't want to forget that.