A Bon Voyage at Jill & Robs

A Big Thanks to Jill and Rob for hosting a terrific gathering of some of our oldest friends at their home in Marin. It couldn’t have come at a better time, as all the details and planning was beginning to wear me out. Both of us were really looking forward to a few hours kickin’ back with friends.

Jill suggested that I bring some of my artwork and set up a mini-show in her living room. Renata picked out the pieces to bring, and on Saturday we loaded the car with art. We set up a corner of the living room with easels to hold the framed work and a print bin for the matted work. Many of these old friends had never seen my art before, and I think were pleasantly surprised by what they saw. Maybe now I can get them down to the South Bay for an art show after we return.

Kathy suggested that we pin up a world map and list up the places we are planning on exploring. The list became a world geography quiz. Claire had to bring out her world atlas book to help find some of the places. A few of the stumpers were Ahmedabad, Lake Baikal, and Ulaan Baator. (Do you know where these places are?)

Soon the house was filled with familiar faces, and the table began to overflow with the bounty of a potluck. Then, before dinner, a spontaneous circle formed holding hands and our dear friend Wumby said a beautiful prayer sending us out into the four corners of the globe. Rob chimed in saying “YOU GUYS ARE THE EYES OF THE WORLD.” Well, that’s what Jerry sang, “Wake up to find out that you are the eyes of the world.” It’s true; we are ALL the eyes of the world.

As the evening progressed, goodbyes were said, and the house began to slowly empty as friends went home. 2am came and went, and then 3am, and before I knew it, it was 4:30am and I was still in conversation with a few women. It was a magic hour, and we sat outside by the fire discussing the depths of life.

A few hours with friends turned into an all-night slumber party and we finally found ourselves on the road home around 3pm on Sunday, exhausted from all the fun, but strangely, completely refreshed and ready to get back to the details of planning for our departure. Thanks friends, you gave us a big shot of love and support right to the heart.