Departure Parties

The last few nights have been a whirlwind of excitement, goodbyes, and hi-jinx adventures. Preparations to leave have included packing, playing music, and barbecuing. Thursday's concert went really well--better than we had even hoped. The bar was packed tightly with people, and our final song, a cover of Gogol Bordello's "Start Wearing Purple" had the entire place out of their seats and dancing wildly.

Last night a gathering was staged at Ellen's house. A number of people showed up with wine, beer, tequila, meat and vegetables. The smoke puffed wildly, the air reeked of lighter fluid and then of delicious cooked animals. Bottles were uncorked and popped, the blender swung its blades wildly, crushing ice and mixing margaritas. People played Speed Scrabble and some ridiculous game from the 80's called "Heart-Throb." I dressed up some pink fuzzy boots and then topped the outfit off with a pink robe.

My room is now cleaned, my bag lies on my bed waiting to be filled with the clothing for the next few months. The clock is ticking.