Beth is Back!!

In the not-so-distant past, I worked at the University of Illinois Extension office in Macon County. My boss was the lovely, highly intelligent, amusing, and talented Beth. Beth, the Horticulture Educator, decided to leave the Extension in favor of her now-husband Chris, and move to the frigid north. I only lasted a year in the office without her.

A few months after Beth left, my daughter and I took the long drive up to Minnesota to spend a few days with Beth and Chris. Beth and I sent occasional cards, made and received random phone calls, and communicated telepathically. Okay, maybe not the last one, but you get the idea.

The point is that I miss Beth. Terribly, deeply, madly miss her.

Today I got a phone call from Beth’s other assistant, Sherry (probably the kindest, most considerate and caring person in the world, and a heck of a secretary.) Sherry said she had a surprise for me, and after I asked her what it was, she put Beth on the phone. Beth!!! My long-lost Beth!!!

Poor Beth, more like it. I’m afraid I wasn’t too cool about the conversation…my voice went up about six octaves in my excitement, and I couldn’t stop squealing. Beth and Chris have moved back into the area! I’m so excited that she is here! Unfortunately I’m booked solid for the rest of the week and most of next week, so the soonest I can get together with Beth is next Monday. We are meeting at Del Carmen’s Pizza. I need to rack my brain and think of something spectacular to give her as a welcome home gift.

I’m counting down the hours until I get to see my dear friend again.