Packing

I was the honoree at a despedida (going-away party) yesterday with some of my fellow missionaries here in Rio. I am leaving Brasil in 10 days, and I am filled with bittersweet memories. This country that has been such a part of me is soon to be part of my past. But not too much in my past, because I am going home with memories and what others might call souvenirs. I received a real, official Brasilian flag that is about 5 feet by 3 feet, and I have added it to the huge pile that has to be packed. Here's a short list of those things that will continue to be a part of my life after October 1:

• a coffee/tea/dessert service for six
• two carved stone birds
• two plates with super-size mugs for soup and bread (or that's what I'll be using them for)
• several books
• a double hammock
• pewter goblets and candlesticks
• pewter and crystal toasting flutes
• a leather map of South America
• a painting
• the flag

I am slowly getting packed, most of which these days includes copious amounts of bubble wrap.