Morning T,
Up, packed, coffee #2 perking, conversation with Ami, bedding changed, shower to come… and I am finally ready and excited about my Cancun week beginning tomorrow.
No letters for the last few days, sorry. They’ve been rich and full and undigested. Friday was a full day of work/planning at New Paltz with the leadership team-some very exciting work to come with Andrea and Jack and Kristen. Tom and I walked at the campus at 2 for a break and we shared life updates. I thought for sure, I’d be hanging out with my dad by early afternoon but instead, I was cemented across from Tom sharing his computer screens and after our walk, plowing through more of what we needed and yes, it felt good.
Finally, arriving in Ellenville just before sunset,the excitement was running high. My dad didn’t know what to expect and probably worried a bit. Of course he was dressed and ready by 7 and the party wasn’t scheduled until 1, but he’s used to waiting. Once there, at Eric’s Italian eatery he was overwhelmed with love from family and friends. It was so good to see him surrounded. You see that family picture. Yes, I was missing your hand hanging on my shoulder. Were you there with me?
It was really wonderful to move around the room, stopping for conversations and more food. No guilt yesterday. At the end of the event, I think my dad left a happy man. As soon as I finish this letter I’ll know for sure.
My day continued with a meet up with Christine over the mountain, back in New Paltz for a meet up at the Main Course. Heart the heart conversation- just what I needed. Yes, she sees me coming back- in my eyes… YES!!!
Finally, back home by 7, even though I have all of today for packing, I plowed through a draft last night and maybe, in your honor, I managed to fit everything comfortably into my larger suitcase without the need for more room in yours or someone(you), to magically zip up the bag. Sure I will add a few small things but I’ve been calculated as I prepped for this pack.
YAY for me!!!
One More Thing: Last year, I’m remembering my Climb for MS, for Leigh at the Top of the Rock. It was not a good day for you but no matter what you wanted the day to be good for me. I know now that you pushed yourself for me, even the usual things were becoming more difficult. I’m not climbing today, but I did make a donation for both of us.
Leigh continues to make us proud, T. What a kid!!!
Okay…. I’m off to the movies this afternoon- Deadpool. You would probably hate it so don’t feel left out.
Love you always,
Bonnie S.
Digital Bonnie 
Rich life indeed! I’ve been at a conference for the last few days and the Internet did not work in the rooms, so I’m glad to read you’ve been too busy to write and I didn’t miss out on your letters. Can’t wait to see the sunshine and ocean from your point of view!
Like Elsie, I thought I’d missed your writing. Happy to hear such happiness in your words, Bonnie. I love the pictures, from old to young, the family is beautiful. Congrats on getting all in that suitcase, always a challenge for me, too, and I do want to leave room for new treasures when returning, too! Happy travels tomorrow. Hope the days continue to have beautiful light in them.
Thanks 😎😎🍷🍷✈️✈️
Here’s to a lovely trip. So fun to hear all that you’ve managed to do the past few days (even fitting everything into one suitcase. Love the pics from your dad’s birthday. Bon voyage! We’ll be watching for pics from Cancun.