I've spent four of the past eight New Year's Eves with my best friend. Not too bad of a track record considering we've lived on different continents for the majority of that time. On New Year's Day, Kitty and Peaberry flew back to South Africa. My heart feels full just thinking of the hugs my friend received at the Johannesburg airport from her husband and son. And at the same time, my heart hurts because she's gone.

But mostly I'm humbled and overwhelmed that she even came with me and spent the past three weeks by my side. I hope she really knows how much I love her...