The roll up to this move has given new meaning to the term “telescoping”.  It’s that weird feeling of some event that seems to be so far down the road, and then – suddenly – it’s right NOW.  The last time I felt this in an emotionally strong way was just before our wedding.  No, wait – just before each of our children was born…no, maybe it happened again at Ari’s graduation from U of M, at Ruthie’s graduation from high school…it’s much like the odd special effect in movies when they do a really fast zoom in on something you can’t quite make out in the distance, then whoa! It fills the screen and takes your breath away.  I’m there now.

Doing our daily sojourn to the local Starbucks, I get the eerie feeling that the regulars we chat with daily are actually now thinking “Aren’t they gone YET???”.  It’s been very lovely getting lots of well-wishing from friends and family, and frankly I am feeling a mix of things now – great excitement, a tinge of trepidation, a dash of sadness to already be missing loved ones (Skype is truly only the NEXT best thing to being there), but definitely ready to get on with it.  The walls of the house are bare, belongings that we are taking along in way too many suitcases and boxes line the bedrooms, half the garage is filled with all the effects we are leaving behind, and the cats and dogs definitely know something is happening (Donovan has been camping in open suitcases and Zoe has been over-the-top affectionate).

I am thrilled that there are a good smattering of dear ones who are already heavily committed to coming to visit – it’s been suggested that we start a Schorr Casa Calendar (book early and often) so I am counting on getting to play tour guide in between project gigs. This also is huge motivation to seek out and try as many local digs, dives and unique cultural experiences as possible to develop a kick-ass repertiore of itineraries!

To all of you who have encouraged us – we thank you. To those who think we are crazy – we are and like it that way. And to those who have encouraged us despite the fact that we are crazy – the tapas and kava is on us when you show up to join the party!

Hasta pronto!