Several of the Stuttgart expats (Eleanor, Dan, and myself) were slated to leave Stuttgart at the end of November, and what with our overlapping social scenes, a joint going-away party was the only rational choice. Eleanor and Dan both having been here for 3-odd years, they deserved a party way more than I did, but hey – I reaped the benefit of having a huge and well-attended party – so cheers, Eleanor and Dan!
The party was at Rob Roy’s – what can only be described as a “fake Irish pub” in Stuttgart-Mitte. The place has been known to have decent live music on a rare Saturday -- but unfortunately our party night wasn’t one of them. We had live music alright – it just wasn’t all that decent.
To all who were there (and of course those who couldn’t make it) – thanks! It was an amazing night, and it made it all the more apparent (if it wasn’t already obvious) what a fantastic group of friends I have here. It’s a little bittersweet, as I’m all the more sad to leave life in Stuttgart behind, but as some of you have already noticed, it doesn’t seem that Stuttgart has seen quite the last of Chris Cardé.
And now, without further delay, the pictures. As with most great nights out, the cameras were only out in force early-on (leaving the late-evening debauchery to the reader’s imagination), but here’s a round-up:
Norma and I, at our table early in the evening
Ciara and James were thrilled to show off their identical phones.
Krishna, Ann, and others were representing the Toytown Stuttgart crowd.
Dan (one of the other departing expats) and I, post good-bye gift-giving ceremony. Note clever play on words on my going away shirt: StUttGARt ?
Speaking of the gifted shirt, a big thank you to Amanda, Richard, and whoever else was involved. I may not deserve it (since I evidently haven’t actually followed through on leaving) but it was a very nice thought and wearing it will always remind me of an amazing 6 months – even if I’m wearing it in Stuttgart next year. ;) And, not to be outdone, Melanie gave me a tremendously useful (if not slightly late) gift: German in 30 Days. I’m going to do my best to be fluent by January, but don’t hold me to it. ;)
Thanks, everyone! I’ll miss you! I'll leave you with this photo, graphically depicting how sad I am to leave:
