Fantastic Wonderland, Farewell Work, and Hello Mini-Vacay

I think I’m in denial. I don’t want to leave Monterey. I mean, I do but I’m not ready. Actually, I am ready but I’m just… I don’t know. It has been so beautiful here in Monterey and the city has been transformed into this fantastic wonderland of blue skies, warm sunshine, and aquamarine oceans. I walked to work on Sunday and it was the best decision I ever made. It was such a blessing to be able to enjoy the beautiful day and walk along the water, taking in the scenery. I’m already missing it and I haven’t even left yet.

I can’t believe how fast time is going by though. Soon I will be leaving. I graduate in 19 days. I leave Monterey in 21. I head off to Montana with my dad on the 24th. I’ll be there for a few weeks and then it’s off to Germany on June 14th. In preparation for all of this, I’m trying to pack up my apartment, organize my life, get rid of my crap, plan my financials, do my homework, and still have enough energy and time left to try to enjoy these last few weeks with my friends.

I don’t want to think about how much I will miss them. The last five years have been the best of my life and I am so grateful for those who have shared them with me. Old friends and new, it’s going to be hard to leave everyone. And the kids that I’ve been caring for over the last few years. Fortunately, I was able to spend a few hours with Baby D on Saturday night but damn, I’m going to miss that little guy. Wouldn’t you?

Fortunately, my time is going to be pretty well spread over the next few weeks. I’m not working anymore. My last day at MyMuseum was on Sunday. Oh, yeah. I work(ed) at this really cool children’s museum in Monterey. And what good is a last day without a photo shoot? Thank you, Chesty for being my photographer.

I am going to miss the gossip at the front desk, kids peeing on the floor, cleaning the party room, ordering pizzas, and putting on the iPod after close. ‘Twas grand. But I’m not all the way done yet! I get to look forward to my going-away potluck at Chesty’s house. Woo!

Tomorrow I am going home to Morro Bay to visit mi madre for Mother’s Day. It’s going to be a nice little mini-vacation. Christy (my favorite cousin sister) and her kids are coming up to visit us and we’re going to play at the beach in the sunshine with my aunt and her kids. Should be fun. I need a little get-a-away before my final exam and Capstone deadline!