A while ago...

"It was a long time ago. Though it seems, sometimes, that most things that matter happened a long time ago, that is not really true. What is true is this: by the time you realize how much something mattered, time has passed; by the time it stops hurting enough that you can tell about it, first to yourself and finally to someone else, more time has passed; then, when you sit down to begin the telling, you have to begin this way: It was a long time ago." --- Lois Lowry (Autumn Street)

As I read this tonight I thought.... is this it?! It,meaning anything and everything-- in all of its applicable forms--that you find to be important. One form (for me) being the management and juggling of what seems to be two different lives--- but is really just one life being lived in two very different places . There are so many things that happen-- fabulous, frightening, sad, frustrating, exciting, etc-- and though you mean to talk about these things that have a significance, somehow they get lost in time and distance. They get jumbled within the translations, or are floating in the air waiting to be grasped and mean something more.

I guess I prefer a little while ago, or it used to be..... instead of "a long time ago". BUT any way you look at it, they are there-- those significant bits or things that matter--- waiting to be shared, discussed, and understood.

The light of day...

Well, I saw a bit more of the sun today (meaning I didn't waste the day sleeping). Em and I met to catch a bus-- yes, we dared-- and headed to Baku Roasting Company for some coffee. It felt good to get out of the apartment and get back into the swing of things, so to say. We met Lazy and chatted for a little while-- then we ventured downtown. It was good to see the sea again-- from a distance.

sleep deprivation...

I don't remember being such a sloth last year upon arrival into Baku-- maybe it was the newness or nerves-- but this time around jet lag is killing me! I am up all night, and force myself to stay awake all day... sleep deprevation isn't good! Who knows, maybe I want to sleep all the time because my gas alarm has been "humming" since my arrival. It isn't the actual warning alarm (or if it is, it doesn't sound like the tester), but it is not a pleasant sound to deal with.... then again neither is the terribly annoying "wuhuuhaaahaaaaaa" (that is my interpretation of scary laughter) coming from the cars on the streets. Whoever made that sound a horn needs to be hit over the head.... a little anger going on right now... I might need some more sleep.

time flies and packing is not fun!

Vegas was fantastic! Each time I visit, I ask myself why I ever left.... I spent time with my family, took in a little baseball, visited friends, made my way to a few pools, and ventured out to Lake Mead. I hated to have it all end.





I flew back into Indiana-- but didn't stay put long. I was on the road to New York quicker than quick. I couldn't wait to get back to my land-- to relax a bit more. I met up with friends, spent time at "The Grand Canyon of the East" (aka-- Letchworth State Park), went to Canada (Niagara Falls), and just plain enjoyed being in such beautiful surroundings! It was hard to leave-- but on the way out of New York I gambled a bit at the Indiana Reservation's Casino--- and hit 4 ACES!! So exciting!



The next stop was Cleveland, Ohio-- GO INDIANS (and BROWNS during football season). Went to Progressive field and watched the Twins whip the Indians-- but it was still a great time. Toured an old steel/ore/everything hauling ship-- very interesting-- and then went to the zoo. I love the zoo!



Good 'ole Indiana was awaiting my return-- along with my parents and sister! My cousin and her family were still visiting, so we were able to have another family gathering with other relatives that I hadn't yet visited. Being surrounded by Clancy's (or family in general) gives me such a warm feeling. We made our way to South Bend for another zoo visit-- can't get enough of a zoo. :)



Viva Las Vegas, Indy, Hi-HO- Ohio, and I LOVE NEW YORK-- my time in the states is flying by! The last few weeks have been jam packed with things to do, people to see, and places to go-- and now I am staring at the piles of things I have accumulated, wondering how the heck I am going to get it all back to Baku! Who was it that decided to put weight limits on luggage, and to add charges for excess baggage??

It is easy not to think about or get emotional about leaving family and friends again-- when I have an absolute mess to sort through and pack. No need to worry-- it will hit me on Friday-- when I am repacking for the 15th time! The emotions will pour out-- along with the tears I am sure. BUT-- for now... I am just overwhelmed. I don't know how every other person who lives overseas does it! I need the inside scoop on the packing thing.