Goin' places that I've never been...

Map of the World
Originally uploaded by Josie R

Caryn had the brilliant idea of putting out a map during my going away party so that everyone could sign it with their well-wishes.

It's a curious mix of melancholy and anticipation I'm feeling these days. I know this trip is going to be amazing, but my oh my, am I going to miss you guys...

Here's a very silly poem Tobias wrote and performed in my honor:

As Josie now begins her trip
We say "goodbye"... with trembling lip.

She'll board a plane.
She'll board a bus.
She'll board a boat.
She'll think of us.

She'll see the world.
Wonders abound.
She'll fly the sky.
She'll trudge the ground.

She'll cross the ocean!
She'll storm the sea!
She'll find a rest-stop
(where she'll stop to pee).

She'll brave the mountains.
She'll cross the gorge.
She'll meet many people.
Dear friendships she'll forge.

She'll learn their words.
She'll eat their bread.
She'll visit their houses.
She'll learn what's said
in houses & bars & temples & churches
in cafes & bus stops & dives & lurches

Of Americans
both false & true.
What a wonderful gift they're giving to you.
To see through their eyes of the world we live.
There can really be no better gift to give.

So Josie for safety
as you travel far lands
with American passport held in your hand...
I ask you to practice these few lines with me
With your hand on your heart...
...on the count of three:

"Oh Canada, my home & native land...."

Thank you, Tobias. :) And thank you to the rest of you for joining me. Especially those of you who traveled from far away places of your own!