As Time Goes By

Today was my last day at home (in New Hampshire) during this break. I spent the majority of it running errands and visiting with people, so it was busier than the days have typically been. However, I did have the joy of visiting with two longtime friends and their children (woah!), and of hanging out a little bit in my two favorite businesses in town. Adelle's Coffeehouse and the Silver Moon Creperie are by far the restaurants that I frequent most often, and each has its unique vibe and atmosphere. I have no particular problem with chain restaurants-- I often go to Applebees or the Olive Garden or Friendly's-- but I like the individuality of these smaller businesses. Plus you can't replace the connection that develops with the owners and/or employees when you visit often.

It's become a bit strange, though, the way in which time goes by so fast. It's never struck me quite as much as it did today. I guess it's easier to tell when the measuring stick becomes your friend's babies. The last time I saw Baby Noah and Baby Artemis, they were approximately 6 months and 1 month, respectively. Artemis in particular was TINY. When they're that little, it's easy to tell that a great deal of time has gone by, and it blew me away. Just another one of the hazards of having two homes-- when you aren't in one of them, life keeps rolling along, and unfortunately you miss out on certain things. Things that you can't replace with a phone call or really any amount or type of technology.

Winter vacation never feels quite long enough, but my bags are all packed so I guess it's about time to sign off from this side of Boston/New York City for a while. It's time to get back to the routine (and rat race) of the District of Columbia, and put some of my mental preparations and New Year's resolutions to the test.