quinta-feira, 14 de agosto de 2008

Thoughtful Speculation and Noisy Family Affairs

So the big B that has been so long a part of the future is rapidly nearing the present. I gave my Rotary presentation today, I've begun to pack up my room, and I've made specific arrangements with my host family to meet me at the airport. As usual, I have mixed feelings about it all. I know that at this moment, it's very easy to be just plain excited about it all. But what about when all my friends come back home from college for Christmas and I'm still in the southern hemisphere? It's hard imagining them all hanging out while I'm so far away. I know that I'll be in pretty constant communication with many of them, but there's only so much that a phone call or e-mail can do. In no way have I ever had second thoughts about going to Brazil. I've just been thinking a lot lately about the emotional ups and downs of my exchange. I guess I get suspicious whenever anything feels as blissfully exciting as my upcoming adventure... but why should I? It's going to be incredible!!

I had a really great dinner at my dad's house on Saturday. Clara came, which was really fun, especially when Patti forgot to serve her dinner! Clara handled herself beautifully around my rowdy relatives. It was really a memorable evening. Dad and Patti were there of course, along with my sister Katie and brother-in-law Nick. My step-sister Jen was also there with Tyler, her husband, and my little nephew Finley! I can't believe how big he is. It's strange to think that he'll be two-years-old when I return from Brazil. The whole meal was one roller coaster of a conversation, as is usual when we gather in numbers larger than, well... one. We're all laughing and talking and interrupting one another, but somehow we're all hearing every word of each discussion taking place around the table. The food was delicious, a build-your-own pasta with delicious toppings and a beautiful salad, followed by a tasty homemade ice cream cake dessert. The whole experience was so characteristic of all my family's gatherings. I really love them and will miss them so much while I'm in Santo André. I'm glad to have a few more family evenings before I leave on the 25th.

The 25th? Ah! Only twelve more days!! I'll try really hard to have my cell phone on me at all times before I leave. So if you want to hang out or catch up before I take off, just give me a ring.

Um beijo,

Kevin

3 comentários:

Unknown disse...

I am so proud of you for going off on this big adventure. I know how scary it can be. On one hand you want to be excited but on the other hand you are scared. Always remember that Jay and I have both been in your shoes and know exactly what you are going to be feeling over this next year.

I am always here, just an email away even if you just want to vent about a frustrating day.

I wish I could see you off before you leave but I will definitely be thinking about you on the 25th.

Love you,
Kim

Anônimo disse...

You know, I'm so glad we can all still hang out before we all leave...today was tough. Thank goodness for instant communication. And really, CA isn't too far from Portland. And I'll probably be up most nights studying, so time-distance communication shouldn't be a problem in your case. Capice? Capice.

Clara disse...

Hi honey,

so you promised to keep your cell phone on you at all times....where is it now?! hah- i'm sure you have a good excuse...

anyways, dinner was one of the best times I've had with you...I'm so excited for your next year and to hear every little detail.

meow.