Vaya Con Dios

I said another goodbye today.

This one should have been easier because my young friend was moving on to a better place, career wise

However, to put it mildly, my ability to say good bye with aplomb is limited.

Any adieu, bon voyage or sometimes even “See you soon”, immediately causes excess optical moisture that totally fogs my contact lenses.

The friend who is now leaving my immediate world appeared on the horizon suddenly. Our paths collided on the last afternoon of a Christmas visit when my son asked “How about taking a ride with me, Mom? I have a place to show you.”

And that’s how I was introduced to Cordia where I now reside. Pam, my departing friend, was at the Concierge desk on that snowy December afternoon.

At that time my plans were nebulous about relocating. I always unrealistically felt “I have plenty of time.” While fastidious about my personal finances, bills etc., I am, admittedly, vague about the passing of years. I have never honestly faced the escalating number that inevitably appeared each year on the last day of October

Despite being acutely aware of my physical limitations, the magic number of 26 always pops into view when asked my age. Unrealistic doesn’t even come close in describing that facade.

On that snowy yesterday December afternoon, while I was prepared to “look at” the residence my son and I visited, I had absolutely no intention of returning nor becoming a resident.

That was when quite by accident, I met a lovely young woman who seemed quite interesting, and informative without any pretence. While she certainly wasn’t the primary reason for my rather abrupt decision to move, I realize now her presence that day was instrumental in making the decision more appealing.

Since our initial introduction, several things have happened. Soon afterwards she changed her employment and then our friendship expanded. She showed me her town, and that evoked memories of when I introduced out of town visitors to my New York.

That was almost two years ago. Since then we have broken bread together at amazing restaurants well off the beaten track, viewed the awesome Autumn foliage, and shopped in unique Farmers Markets. All while the careful amenities of a new acquaintance slowly expanded into a true friendship.

And today despite the rain, after our final luncheon , I quickly donned my sun glasses, and with a quick hug, merely said, “Vaya Con Dios,” before she noticed my blurred contacts.

And life, as always, goes on but the stage today seems just a mite emptier.