Friends come and go...near and far....

Each day is a journey unto itself. With each sunrise, a whole new beginning unfolds and sometimes when we expect one thing to happen, the total opposite or something not even brought to mind occurs. Lately there been a lot of comings and goings at work. For years it was the same old (well not old but the same group) people working days and nights. Our lives intertwined and grew. We had children and went through the ups and downs of raising healthy, productive, human beings. We've laughed, we've cried. We've been through illnesses and deaths, marriages, divorces, joys, and sadness, layoffs, uncertainties, along the way we've been encouraged, discouraged, and sustained dents and bruises, but we endured. However, as with all things in life, nothing ever stays the same. I tend to think that if all stayed the same, it would in fact, become dull and we'd be numbed and not appreciate all the wonders that are out in the universe. Some people have moved for economic reasons, some for family reasons, and others for a renewing of life. With changes brings growth and challenges, but certainly not the mundane.

Gunnhild is leaving our nest and will be going back to her roots in Norway. This is quite a challenge as she has been here for decades. She endured many bumps and obstacles to assimilate to a new culture. She obtained her degrees and certifications, and has been at the job for over 20 years. So with the children grown and out of the nest a new adventure awaits her as she takes a sabbatical in her homeland with her family there. She has accomplished many things, and is a very humble human being. She has been to India many times where there is a Free Clinic in her honor (Gunnhild's Free Clinic). She was most a most gracious hostess when a few of us ventured to Tennessee for her daughter's wedding...the Natural Tunnel, was one of the best highlights! She has a wealth of stories and experiences to share. Her passion for gardening, kayaking, reading, a glass(or two) of wine, travel, and adventure are among her favorite things. She has a loving husband and three awesome children and believe it or not, she'll be a grandmother. Now doesn't this sound like it dates us all. Personally, I don't feel much different than I did at 25, however the earth spinning on its axis with the dawn of each new day and the spectacular sunsets that follow seem to occur more rapidly than they did back a few years ago. So to a co-worker, friend, wife, mother, sister, aunt, humanitarian, scholar, crafter, etc. we will live vicariously through your travel journals.



So here's to you dear friend......HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE! Embrace the journey, the memories new and old, and remember, we're rooting for you, you inspire us and give us hope. Safe travels dear friend!

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