Full Circle...

Nine weeks ago we scattered Paddington's ashes amongst the daffodils and grasses at Cotmandene overlooking Dorking. And today we walked by the spot for the last time in what will probably be quite a long time...the rain has gone and the evening light lit up the Downs to the North like a beacon against the grey.

It has been a day of mixed emotions; saying goodbye to so many friends and yet filled with the excitement of our new beginnings...

Our bags have been repacked; the tickets are in place and the passports and visa set. 

Tomorrow a small convoy of cars will escort us down to Southampton docks where we will meet the QM2 and, this time tomorrow evening, we will be somewhere west of the tip of England.

Nicholas


There is a lot of love surrounding us in this season of our lives, our love for one another, the love of those we have known here in Europe and the love of friends and family in the United States welcoming us back to her shores.


This afternoon, after another flood of tears, I was reminded of the joy of being alive and of the special gift of laughter and presence a dog can offer...Edith is a real character and I think something in her must of known I needed a little perk, a smile (well, a downright belly laugh was necessary after all my crying...)


You might remember me in the Union Jack porkpie hat from Monday? 


Well...guess who decided to go exploring in our room, found the hat, and got it stuck on her nose? Once her muzzle was extracted from the elastic, she was very happy to pose for this photo...

Today, Edith, you represent for me, all the unseen wondrous moments yet-to-be...what a special gift for my spirit. You are a beauty!


Judy