We had the privilege of living with her for the last quarter of her Peace Corps service, and the first quarter of ours. Even though these past few months she was gone on some work trip or another for about half the time, the three of us kind of became a family in this short time. We had movie nights, special dinners, ice cream Sundays, processed through decisions together, shared our frustrations, and encouraged each other.
During her last week in Nueva Guinea, Isabel attended 15 going away parties! She had an overwhelming week of memory sharing, tear shedding, and food eating. Our party for her was no exception.
Per Isabel’s request, we threw her a Thanksgiving themed party. We replaced the turkey with chicken, made gravy, stuffing and mashed potatoes from scratch, and opened a can of cranberry sauce. We invited the new TEFL couple to celebrate with us.
The five of us had a night of Giving Thanks for Isabel’s Service. We staged a Peace Corps graduation with a diploma, cap, and tassel while “Pomp and Circumstance” played. We all toasted to Isabel, sharing words of appreciation. During dinner Isabel answered questions about her service and her upcoming plans, which were placed under our seats. During desert (homemade pumpkin pie baked by Isabel) we all shared some words of thanksgiving. It was a great night!
A few days later, Isabel’s room was all packed and swept. All that remained was a mattress and mosquito net. Last night (this morning) she slept for about an hour on the downstairs hammock and the three of us walked to the bus stop at 1:45am. It was kind of a cool way to say goodbye to the town, I imagine.
She took two suitcases and a backpack. Before getting on the bus she said, “Kind of weird to have my life condensed to this.” Isabel may not be going home with many worldly possessions, but she is returning with a wealth of professional development, personal growth, and a plethora of friends for life.
So, to our friend Isabel, we say: You added to our life, we hope we added to yours. You will forever find a friend in us. – Caressa