Worst of Times and Best of Times

Two weeks ago I was at my mom’s house watching the animals while she and Richard went to a Christmas Party. I emerged from the house at dinner time to feed everyone their grain to find the barn engulfed in flames. The rest of the night is a blur; I just remember frantically trying to get a hold of my mom… by the time I did, the barn was burned to the ground. Fourteen of the alpacas died, although thirteen of those should have been able to escape since all but one of the barn doors was wide open. We aren’t sure why they stayed inside. But six alpacas escaped, and all three dogs. I was treated for smoke inhalation and various bumps and scrapes - I had jumped the fence and tried to open the one locked door, but it was latched from the inside - but I’m completely fine now. Emotionally… I’m coping. Last week was really hard, but this week has been fine, mostly because I spent the week in Oregon with Colin’s awesome family. I’m not putting this story up for sympathy, it just feels good to get it out there. May the sweet little alpaca souls rest in peace.

And now, on a happier note, my visit to Oregon was amazing. Colin’s mom is so warm and nice and she showed us a great time. We went to a play and a Dickens Feast and had many delicious meals. I’d never been to a Dickens Feast before but you can be damn sure I’ll be going again! It was at a beautiful bed and breakfast. The staff were all dressed up as characters from A Christmas Carol, and we were served six amazing courses while being serenaded by a quartet of carolers. Next time, though, I’m going to wear something slightly more stretchy. But really, I couldn’t have asked for a better meet-the-parents experience. I hope Colin’s dad (whenever I get around to meeting him - who knows when that will be) is just as awesome.

Also in happy news, Lisa is coming to visit on Monday, which means I have exactly until then to get this pig sty of an apartment in guest shape. And believe me, it won’t be finished until the very last second. That’s just how I roll.

Ohhh yes, I almost forgot - I passed all my first semester classes with 3 A’s and 2 B’s! Quite frankly I’m a bit surprised I did so well - some of the courses were really hard- but I’m not about to question it! I definitely learned some good lessons to apply to next semester, mostly involving getting enough sleep. I can’t even tell you how many times I looked up while studying for finals and said, “Clearly I was in class this day because I took notes, but I have absolutely no memory of learning about this.” I guess just being in class isn’t enough - you should also be well-rested enough to pay attention.

So, that is the current news, both sad and happy. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday surrounded by people you love.

Filed under Uncategorized |