sad phone call



I just got a call from the 4th D. She's moving. To Chicago. Her mother has been threatening to move for the last 9 years, so I've never taken it seriously before. But now, it's serious. They have a new apartment. They are leaving on the 31st.

Next month, it will be 10 years since we were first matched up in the "Big Sisters" program. She was 6. I was 28. I had no children and lived in an apartment. I had just bought my first car. She was in Kindergarten. (Oh my, that seems like a lifetime ago.)

I worry how we will keep in touch. I don't know facts, but I suspect the reason they are moving is that they no longer qualify for section 8 housing subsidies here. They used to be a family of 6....now they are a family of 3 (Her older siblings turned 18 and moved out.) Family size is a big deal in those sorts of things.

In Madison, she's in this fantastic alternative high school. Her teacher is a neighbor of mine and I've gotten regular updates throughout the year. I shudder to think of her being thrown into the Chicago public school system as a sophomore. Hopefully, they'll be able to find a good school for her.

I see her more than I see most of my friends. I spend more time with her than I do with my "real" sister or my parents. This is going to be hard. Very hard.

In happier news, Doug has started a blog:
http://web.mac.com/dnelson1822

username: Kristen
password: Nelson

It is sure to have many more photos, movies, and podcasts than mine! And much better graphics.

Posted: Sun - August 20, 2006 at 09:41 PM          

©