So, here I am: Back in the states. I got back yesterday. I enjoyed the trip; not as good as China, but still nice. I'm was quite homesick this time around for some reason... Well, I actually think I know that reason, but I'll not talk about that for the moment. I have a few things for friends and I'm hopefully going to have a party this year.

Party? Oh, yes. It was my birthday yesterday as well. I was seranaded several times over during the last three days. Got a few presents, money. That stuff.

Of course, during great celebration comes great tragedy. It happened before I even came home; 8:20 in the morning. I was on the plane then, right? Aunt Janet died. Dad told me at the airport. Mom and Dad said it went quick. They told her I was coming home and I wanted to see her. Mom could tell she wanted to see me as well. She just couldn't hold on any longer- the pain was too much and the medicine wasn't working as it should've. I bought her something in Venice. It was a glass dragonfly brouche. Mom said I should wear it to remember her by. I'm going to wear it at the funeral.

We're leaving on Sunday morning to get to the wake and funeral. I think they're both on Sunday, but I was in a daze when my parents told me. Ryan wanted to come home to be there for them, but Dad insisted he stay at Boy Scout camp; he doesn't need to remember her in that way... I'll be gone for a few days; two or three. Mom says we shouldn't stay down there longer than need be. I don't think I'll be able to make it through this one without crying, though. I can't write about it anymore; just thought I should let you guys know. Hope I'll be able to talk with some of you before I leave.