We're home (well... in CA)

Keith and Scott Kelley in Charlevoix - Summer 2006

I can't really begin this blog again without acknowledging Keith Kelley and his strong will and determination in fighting his battle with Cancer over this past year. We are so deeply saddened by his departure that it's difficult to even write these words. Our nephew and his family have our love, our support but mostly our admiration for the beautiful way they have managed through this insanely difficult journey. We love them all deeply and will always love and cherish Keith. He will always be our nephew and live on in our family.

Here is a link to his beautifully written blog - this is a record of Keith's journey for those who haven't been to his site before.

http://keithkelley.blogspot.com/

Our departure was quick. I'm probably still digesting the fact that this chapter in our lives - an exciting one at that - is finished. Google was remarkably supportive of John's desire to go back to the states and all the folks we've met while in India were - albeit sad, still very supportive and kind.

John's group at Google - those that worked for him and with him in this Indian office - had an outpouring of emotion at the announcement of his pending departure. I don't think they could have done more for him in his final week to show how much they care. I was astonished at the impact he had (according to them anyway) on their young professional lives. They professed immense respect and loyalty to John after only working for him, in some cases, just a matter of months.

Our departing journey to the airport in Delhi, India, consisted of two big cars. Not so much because of luggage but because our entire household was determined to see us off at the airport. Annan (houseboy), Deepok (mgr of houseboy), Jack (the cook) were all stuffed into another car with our luggage and a driver to get to the airport. Very sweet and kind of humorous. Our last day also included a visit to our driver's (Micky's) home to meet with his wife, mother, son, sister, brother in law and niece. It was a joy to see an authentic Indian household and they were more than generous hosts. Great for the boys and for us.

I'm not sure where this blog will go from here. This past week was full of emotions for us - some intensely sad moments, some happiness at the thought of coming home and then frankly, just a ton of hard work to wrap things up quickly. I'm still catching my breath which is hard to do on any given day with 3 darling boys at my side!

ps. I have updated the Picassa page with some recent pics.