Thoughts on Goodbyes

So it's amazingly sunny and beautiful today, a rare gorgeous day this summer since it's been pretty cold and rainy.  On days like this I cannot possibly imagine leaving Alaska.  It's truly a place like no other.  I had a great time at a bonfire with friends last night - yummy smores made with Reeses!  And plans for some more fun in the midnight sun tonight.  

I love being close to the mountains and the ocean, even when I don't get out in them as much as I'd like; I like having them there - being able to look at them and appreciate them daily.  Walking into work and being stopped in my tracks by the beauty - what an amazing creation God has made!  I love going out fishing and then spending the evening at a fish fry with friends.  And living in a small town - although it can be tedious to have everyone in your business, it's fun to go to the grocery store or post office and say hello to ten people.  

It's heartbreaking to think of leaving . . and my mind keeps wanting to postpone it.  But I really think that grad school is the route to go to get into the fieldwork I really want to be doing and have the desire and passion for.  Also, if God pulls some strings and potentially opens a door at Duke University . . I kinda feel I should take it.  I guess the good way to look at this is, it's not goodbye, just see you later.  (hopefully soon)