Today we went out and worked out the stops on George’s bus route.   School starts Wednesday,  and all along the way,  there was the sense of summer ending - the angle of the sun in the sky,  the trees that have started to color,   the slight chill in the air.  As I looked down the list of names,  I imagined that the students are as sad as I am.  Once the school buses take to the road,  the pace of life changes,  and summer is over.

Today was also the day to say goodbye to Rebecca and Melissa.    Rebecca arrived at my bedside two and half weeks ago,  minutes before they wheeled me to surgery.    Her presence was such a comfort to both George and me.     We appreciated all the things she did to help out,  and all the time she gave us,  to make sure all was okay.   I know George appreciated having her there as he waited through my surgery and to help here at home,  and I appreciated knowing that she was nearby whenever I needed anything,  or just needed someone to talk to.    Melissa flew in this past week,  and we enjoyed our visits with her - a night out for pizza,  our trip to Auburn yesterday, and tonight the four of us gathered for one last dinner together.

George barbecued chicken and cooked corn on the cob.    I made blueberry muffins and a pasta salad.   We made them a little care package of leftovers to take with them,  as they head back to North Carolina in the morning.    Another sad goodbye,  but I will carry nice memories of our time spent together.

The animals among us,  though,  are quite relieved that Ellie,  the spirited dog,  has moved on.