Some goodbyes, some 'see ya laters'

Cocktails and dinner with Henry and Ann were superb. These two people are absolutely delightful, and am going to miss them dearly. Tim and I met the two at the Opal Lounge. We enjoyed some nibbles and some white wine - discussing the usual topics of work and 'what's next' but then also what I will be doing back in the states. Henry and Ann are expecting their first grandbaby this fall and, will be over to visit us (along with a few others) in September of 2007 for their 30th Anniversary and Henry's 50th birthday.

After dinner, Tim and I walked up Princes Street to the Mound - it was a typical misty night which was a treat in this dryest of summers - and made our way to Cera's house for her birthday party. Lots of familiar faces - many from the IEP and the Nationalism MSc programmes were in attendance. I was able to say some 'Hellos' (because we've all been so busy and anti-social working on our dissertations) and 'Goodbyes', since I won't be seeing many of them for a long while, if at all. Nino, Iason, Catherine, Fionnuala, Mike, Isabel, James, Ceri and Cera - Wow - it's been a fantastic year. They will do fantastic things with their knowledge... Nino moving on to Budapest, Iason to Geneva for another masters, many staying in Edinburgh to look for work with the EU or refugee organizations or the UN, such motivation and greatness from a group of truly talented people. What a pleasure knowing, working and partying with them!