Andrew has just called me from the airport in London and has arrived safely. Of course it was a relief to know he is there and well (and I love hearing his voice), but sad that he's clear across the pond.
Taking him to the airport was quite an experience. Since I still had my ticket for the flight, too (non-refundable, non-changeable ticket), I walked up to the Virgin desk with him to let him know I wouldn't make the flight. Then he turned in his luggage and we hung out in the airport for a while until he had to go to the gate. There was lots of crying and mushiness - and a little family of three sparrows apparently live in the airport hotel lobby.
The ride home was rough (as we both predicted it would be), but I was glad to have gotten to see him off myself and for the solitude of the drive. Toward the end it started pouring and we were going about 45 on the interstate. It's always nice when mother nature commiserates. I got home, took a bath, and crashed on the bed with Ophelia, who has been an amazingly sweet kitty to me while I've been crying. Laertes was a little scared at the noises I was making and Romeo didn't seem to care much either way, but Miss Ophelia has been sticking close to me. Another comfort.
Andrew's mom called around 8 to check on me and see that he'd gotten off okay. My mom called an hour later to do to the same.
There's plenty at our new place to keep me busy - decorating and furnishing it (furnishings are, we hope, to be minimal, but still require arrangement, and I haven't put any of our many pictures and such up yet), finding a job for the summer and the fall, keeping things clean and neat, keeping in touch with friends and family, and general life stuff. Not to mention that novel I haven't touched since we came to the US. Remember that?
So I know I'll be able to keep myself fairly busy. And I'll try not to whine and pout too much. If all goes as planned, I'll be seeing Andrew in about 6 weeks in Oxford anyway. We can do 6 weeks, as we kept telling each other yesterday. It's not so bad. I miss him tons, but at least I know where he is and that he's safe and with people who care about him very much. Plus we'll talk every day one way or another (via internet or phone or both). I'm so very blessed to have such a terrific husband. It's something I never lose sight of. But I also don't want to be a big baby and fall to pieces just because he's away from me for a while. So I'll to my best to be a big girl and make our time apart productive.
Okay, dear readers, thanks once again for your tremendous support and patience. I had a wonderful week with my husband before he left and now I'll try to be better about updating. I guess I'll have to hold off on more Outsider's Guides for a while, but hope to keep things interesting here.
It's been interesting to see how many readers and friends came out of the proverbial woodwork when I began writing about having to separate from Andrew. I've heard from old friends, former students, frequent readers, and friends from the US and abroad. The letters have been incredibly touching and kind. I appreciate the kindness so much and I have kept all the notes. When I feel down, I look at them and remember how blessed I am to have so many who love and support me.
To my Oxford friends, give Andrew plenty of hugs and keep a close eye on him for me. I look forward to seeing you next month.
Posted by Erin at April 10, 2003 07:44 AMhey erin,
sounds like you are doing a remarkable job of everything. there is a lot to keep you busy not to mention three demanding fur balls that are probably over the moon that their mom is home but confused as all get out that their dad took off. they're gonna be a handful! enjoy the florida sunshine and the job search. i'm thinking of you and sending you many good wishes.
oh erin, i'm really sorry to hear about the situation. It will all work out and you're absolutely right about six weeks, it is definitely workable and will go by sooner than you know it! PJ and I can attest to that! Best of luck to both of you and with everything else as well. And, like everyone else I am sure, I am offering an understanding ear if you need one!
Posted by: vera at April 10, 2003 06:09 PM