Hello World

Hello world.

I am still working hard with the kids in San Antonio.  It’s a challenging but rewarding job, and, remarkably, each weekend I start to miss the kids and to look forward to returning to work.  I miss the giggles, smiles, and incredible cuteness.  J  Two examples: yesterday I told three five-year-olds that I was leaving for the day, and in unison they screamed, “NOOOOOO.”  I felt loved and appreciated.  Then, on Thursday, two girls were clinging to me and holding my hands with near death-grips, when one of them, Elysa, looked up on me and said, “I love you.  I’m gonna miss you!”  This was promptly followed by an “I love you” from Melanie. 

And then I started thinking about the end of the summer, and I realized I will miss all the kids quite a bit.  Also, to be honest, I’m a bit tired of waking up talking to imaginary kids.  J  It’ll be hard to leave those cute faces and those constant hugs, BUT . . . I’ll be leaving those hugs for a much bigger and much missed one . . .

You see, I love my summer job and the break from school and being with family, but I am so excited to be back in Grinnell.  I’m ready for the work again, the new classes, the exciting times with friends . . . and to be with my wonderful boyfriend, Klevi, again.  Now that’ll be one big hug.  ;)

Speaking of Klevi . . . he turned the big 21 last Wednesday.  I was sad I missed the celebration – it’s a big American milestone, but he reminded me that in Albania, 21 doesn’t mean much.  I can’t wait to be back in Grinnell to hang out with Klevi – we play ping-pong, race in Free Cell, watch movies, study together, and watch sports, among many other things.  I miss all of our time together, and I’m quite, QUITE excited to be back at school.  <3