Dear all,
Apologies for having neglected you these last two months. I'm not sure what happened - life got in the way? First there was teaching and marking, then a conference. I've been working, and socialising, and not really crafting very much. I've been enjoying the sunshine and good ales (esp. in mini glasses):
The Central, my local (if there is such a thing as a local here - all the pubs are within a 5 minute walk, and these days I find myself mostly at the Central or the Whey Pat. I miss old Droughty's with its leather sofas, and Aikman's comfortable grottyness), had an ale promotion - three mini pints for the price of a full one. Rather adorable, I thought.
There have been a number of BBQs due to the surprisingly good weather we've had these last two months.
I particularly enjoyed the impromptu ones at Jake and Chris' - wholly their idea of course (read: I invited myself over). Good food, good company, much sillyness:
I'm very fortunate to have friends like you (and a few others not pictured here of course). I love spending time with you. You make the thesis bearable, and the drama managable. Love you guys.
We all find ourselves at the end of something great, and the beginning of something new. With most of us finishing our theses in the next year or so parting - such sweet sorrow! - is immanent. But like the balloon that tried to get away but didn't none of us are ever quite going to leave St Andrews and thesisising behind. It's a sad time but also an exciting one - what will become of us? If I had to hazard a guess JT will end up in France, eternal bachelor or married to an heiress. Jake will be a university chaplain, continuing his academic interests while doing what he is so good at - pastoral and ministery stuff. Chris will look after a score of charming and happy kids - while trying to get up the courage to finally ask McEwan out for dinner. Rose will continue with her crazy and busy social life - and with academia. Laura will get an academic museum job, perhaps in London, perhaps in Edinburgh. And as for Peter and myself? Who knows. But it's going to be exciting.
To friends - you make it all worthwhile.
