I don't "punt for the other team," so to say (and this is despite the fact that I like dark chocolate, fitting -- NOT TIGHT! -- tees, candle-lit rooms, and French press coffee), but Grant and I are once again spending a fare amount of time together, hence the rather infrequent blogging posts lately. However, this time around Grant isn't quite the vociferous beast he seemed to be only five months ago. No, once I got to know him, a gentle, droopy-eyed child appeared from behind that formidable facade. Like two lovers, we now burn the midnight oil together (yes, sometimes in candle light), talking science, and sharing coffee and the occasional pint. I'm not sure where our relationship is heading, but hopefully him and I can start something serious because indeed, I am ready for a long-term relationship with him -- at least for the next two years. But in the meantime, Grant, please know that I regret all those awful things I've said about you in the past. It was me, not you. I'm a changed person now. You've taught me so much: patience, perseverance, the nature of Bax and the mitochondrial permeability transition pore in neuronal cell death, the absurdity of NIH instruction packets, and honesty in dealing with my emotions. Grant, you're a star, whether you choose me or not. I just hope you feel the same way about me. Think about it; I'll be right here waiting.
***
In other less creepy, more serious announcements, a more-than-just-a-good-friend of mine has recently received her Master's in Behavioral Neuroscience degree. This is an extraordinary achievement that deserves showers of accolades for both the degree itself and for the ownership of her life that it represents. The road behind her is now solidly paved in accomplishment, and may the unchartered roads ahead lead you to enlightenment, happiness, and love -- love for yourself, the world around you, and the people that can make "life" an adjective. The tears behind my eyes weep out of happiness and out of sadness in your imminent departure. Godspeed, my true companion.
