Time to Say Goodbye

May 25 came all too soon for all of us. That night we went to PI for the last time together. The next night we all went to Friday's for dinner. I don't think I had any idea at that time just how tough it was going to be to leave these people. Most of us decided we would leave on Saturday the 27th. Stephanie flew out on Friday night back to Chicago. Matt flew back to Seattle early Saturday morning. Lindsey, Amy F., and Lisa all decided to follow each other home at least most of the way. I was the only one taking I-95 home, so I was on my own.

I basically refused to admit I was going home and didn't pack a thing until the day I left. I said goodbye to the girls that morning, which was when it all really sank in. It was one of the saddest moments of my life, not knowing when or if I would ever see these people again. Jeremy and I then packed. Aaron, Kim, and Ben all left before us. Josh and Amy E. were the only two left, but they were moving locally, because they decided to stay for the summer.

Watching everyone leave was tough for Amy, so I hung out with her as long as I could that day. I went to see her new house before leaving. Finally, at about 2:00 that day, I was ready to check out of Vista Way. Jeremy and I left together, which is kind of funny, because we also arrived together. I turned in my key, Vista Way ID, and parking decal, and I pulled out of the Vista Way gates for the last time.

Driving back home was totally different from the drive down when I had something to be excited about. The drive was long, but it gave me time to reflect back on the most incredible experience of my life.