OK, so it finally came.That day I thought was so far off....moving day. The moving van rolled up a little after 10 a.m. and out came Juan and Scott. They left Sacramento at 2 a.m., had to chain up coming over Donner Pass, and were ready to work as soon as they got out of the truck. I've noticed, however, that as the day has drug on, so too are they (dragging, that is).
Dave and I fed Juan and Scott at about noon, hoping to increase their energy level. We had a nice conversation. It was interesting, albeit sad, to hear about the struggles of the average American. I hope this doesn't come across as snobbish, because that's not how I mean for it to be. Those of us who live in Elko have been pretty insulated from the economic struggles of those throughout the United States. Yes, some of Nevada's cities and communities are experiencing record level unemployment and foreclosures rates, but not here in Elko. We are blessed to live in a community largely supported by gold mining companies. And, if you haven't heard, gold is at over $1,400 an ounce. It wasn't that many years ago when gold was barely staying above $250 an ounce. Layoffs were occurring and our economy struggled. Anyway, both Juan and Scott have had their lives upended by the turn in the economy, losing their jobs, family, and things that they held dear. They are kind men who are happy to now have a job and are starting to see things turn around. I admire them.
I am sitting in our recliner, listening to Kenny Chesney on my iPod as there is no TV left in the living room. I am surrounded by boxes, and I am filled with emotion, which has been the case in the last week. I am scared. I am nervous. I am excited. I am sad. I am happy. I feel like I could burst into tears at any time. I just am....
The furniture is still here, but the pictures are being packed or stored. Those "things" that mean the most to me are going with me to Ghana, and they are now packed. Take note, Benjamin. I didn't pack Marty (my cat). He has spent the entire day upstairs under the bed and finally came down just now to sniff at the boxes. He definitely senses things are not as they were.
Putting my sentimentality aside, I have cleaned things in my kitchen that haven't seen cleaning solution in quite some time! I've basically moved from room to room behind Juan and Scott. They just kind of look at me like I'm crazy. I have found it to be therapeutic.
As the boxes are slowly moved from the house and garage to the truck, that knot in my stomach grows. The day we will be leaving our family, friends, and jobs will soon be upon us. But until then, we will enjoy the parties, the get togethers, the dinners, etc. Let me tell you....there is never just one going away party in my family!
But, here's the positive. Next week we get to see my sister and brother-in-law, and some very dear friends for a weekend in Las Vegas! Kids are coming home from college for Spring Break, our grandson will be here in a couple of weeks. What's better than that?? As Melissa would say (or tattoo on her side), "Seize the Day!"
