The goodbyes have begun, and are coming faster as our move approaches.  Aaron’s work threw a going away party for us this evening.  Mia and I made an appearance, then went home for her bedtime.  We’re throwing ourselves a going away party this weekend, open house style, on Sunday afternoon.  We’re not looking forward to saying goodbye, but we are looking forward to a house filled with good food, laughter and people we love.

It is hard to imagine saying goodbye to a place we have called home for 14 years.  We love this place, and we weren’t looking to leave.  But we were presented us with another path, one that we were and are compelled to take.  I don’t think we’re moving to a “better place” than Albuquerque, rather it is the place we’re supposed to be next…the best place for this time in our lives.  Albuquerque will always be a part of us.

Moving day and more goodbyes are imminent.  For now, though, the thought of goodbye makes me sad.  So, instead, I will think of all the wonderful things I love about this place we live, and look forward to the place we are going…

Sometimes it is easier for me to look forward than to look back, but I know looking back is just as, if not more, important.  So I’ll keep working on my farewell to Albuquerque.

p.s. Because I can’t resist, here is a picture of Mia (OK, 2 pictures).  Note that in the present setting, she actually looks back on where we’ve been as we walk.