Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Home Sweet Home!! !! !!

I am back home in Utah! Actually, I left Lille a little earlier than planned in order to surprise Gavin and boy oh boy, was he shocked! My sister Hillary called him around midnight saying she was scared and home alone so he ran over and when he rushed in the house, I grabbed him from behind! He was speechless for a good minute and then it took an hour or so to sink in. He couldn’t believe his eyes! Once it sank in he was thrilled and pretty much hasn’t left my side since! It is so nice to be back with my family! We are in the midst of lots of wedding plans, but having a good time too! Right after I got home, Kaye Hart planned an amazing bridal shower for me! She had the BEST decorations and planned with a French theme. She did an awesome job making everything authentic and beautiful! Jenny Agle helped with the great food and decorations. It was the most beautiful party! I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with all the ward ladies and reveling in the Frenchy atmosphere!
Quickly, so I don’t miss anything, my last week in Lille was quite eventful. My colleagues were so kind and planned a farewell luncheon for me in a restaurant that is located in a cave underground. It was one of the most delicious meals I ate. That same day, my internship professor Dr. Yvon Lebras came to visit and spent a few hours with my team. It was the most rewarding experience to hear them praise the work I had done and express their gratitude and admiration for me and my efforts. Truly, this was better than receiving a salary. The dean’s assistant Cédric then did my debriefing and I was so pleased that I had accomplished what he’d hoped. This was a life impacting internship and a summer I will never forget. Upon leaving, I knew it was time, but it was still hard. I had made such good friends and gotten so comfortable with my life in Lille. Angelique and Rosalie drove me to the train station and waited with me until I passed through inspections and they waved until I was out of sight. I have much more to say but not much time, so I’ll quit for now and hope to catch up later. 17 more days until Gavin and I get married! Plus, I just found out that my dear Allie will be able to be here for the wedding! Life is beautiful…