In the time between now and lasting posting, so much has happened.

Perhaps most importantly, I put my beloved dog Ella to sleep. She was old, in kidney failure and just not having a great life anymore. I think I was mentally prepared for it to happen (and I knew I would do "it" before going back to school as its a long and stressful journey for her even when healthy) but it's immeasurably sad to not have her around any more. Many people have asked if I will get another pet and the answer (for now) is no, both because the loss is still too new but also because it isn't really fair to any animal I would get (especially a dog or cat) to go through me not being there for long periods during rotations, or being away from home frequently for classes. I've considered a small animal (bird, fish, rat, guiena pig) but right now I think I just need time to feel sad.

On a different note, I moved back up to the island this weekend (Danny tagged along and helped with the drive) and started school today. It's great to see everyone again and I'm glad to finally be settled in instead of having it looming ahead of me constantly. I am ridiculously disorganized right now - and conveniently have 2948348351 things to do - but I think time will go quickly with so much on my plate. Among other things I need to get my parking pass, put together a display for the lab animal club's table at club day (Wednesday), set up my printer, print out notes, put away my clothes, put away my food, do the dishes and get the house to a more liveable state. Whew. I think it's time for a to-do list...

I promise to post more about classes and school as we get going, but I've got a coffee date tonight!