Memories Refreshed

It is now 5 days left before my departure.  Although I had plenty of time to prepare for the departure, I am feeling "crunched for time" with constantly thinking whether I forgot to do something.

For those of you who know me well, also know that I have poor memory.  I forget things often, so it is wonderful for my family and dear friends to help me refresh my memories to the most recent so that I shall remember them for the next two years.  Here are some photos of some of my memories...

For all those days I spent cigar-ing.  I wish I could bring a box or two with me, but am not sure about customs, so I am going to use up all I got.  Maybe Kenyan cigars are as good.

For my dear friend Adree who have always been there for me, through thick and thin.  I hope I have been there for her as well.

For my family and "extended family" who have been there for me.

For all my favorite foods I enjoy here.  I went to several restaurants to remember the flavors.  I had gyros with some of my friends recently.  This is my favorite dessert that goes way back when I lived in Pennsylvania.  My Dad always bought me and my girls BOXES of them whenever we visit them.

For my cats, Minnie (shown) and Mickie, who have been with me for 17 years.  My girls grew with them but went to college and have their lives, but I have always been there for them all those years.  Now Amanda will give them all the loving care in my absence.

For my backyard, where I spent a lot of time.  Played there with my girls when they were little and growing up.  They were great for parties and such.  I often sit out back, enjoying my cigar and the nature that my own backyard gives me.

For my Harley, who gave me thousands of miles traveling.  Jarvis and I will prepare it for a long hibernation in my garage, but it shall be ready for me when I return.

For my house, who sheltered me for the last 18 years.  I love this house very much.  Amanda will tend to it in my behalf.

For my ol' faithful black beauty, the car I have fallen in love.  It served me so well, in such comfort.  Sami will take care of it for the next two years.

For the trees in Indiana.  I shall miss their changing leaves over the seasons.

For my own comfortable bed.  I do not know if I will ever have a regular bed for the next 2 years.

For my toilet, where I can poop well and in peace.  I wonder about those "holes in the ground" I may be using out there.

So, there are just too many memories that I need to refresh.  However, thanks to Sami, and all my family and friends, they put together such a wonderful gift for me at the Farewell Party.

In a set of three bound books, there is an envelope containing a note from members of my family and friends from here and afar.  Each envelope contains a date label indicating when I should open and read the note.  There is also a "stand" that I could hold up the note for the week.  There is 120 envelopes altogether.  I look forward in opening each and every one of them for the next 2 years.  

Tomorrow Sami and I will start packing and see if we manage to meet the 107" and 100 pound restriction.  I will photograph everything before they are packed so that they would help with my insurance claim should they disappear.

NOTE: Click on "contact me" above to find my address and other contact information.

Hakuna Matata (no worries!)