The last time I saw her was nearly three years ago. We were newly minted physicians and warmly said good-bye, stay in touch, let me know how residency goes, I hope to see you soon. Our black graduation gowns swirled around our ankles from the afternoon breeze.

There were regular phone calls and Christmas cards. The Northwest and Southwest proved to be too far for a visit, though, until now—she has only one month before she makes the leap from resident to attending physician.

She looked older—maybe it was the wrinkles from the desert sun, maybe it was the furrow in her eyebrows when she discussed difficult situations in the hospital, maybe it was maturity and distance etched into her features after witnessing the morbidity and mortality of children.

She still said “like” a lot, though. Some things don’t change.

She brought the sun with her; I think she attached the glowing celestial orb to the tail of the plane and, today, attached it to her wrist as if it was a balloon.

Having visitors reminds me of the charm and beauty of Seattle. Not only am I reminded of the why I am fond my friends, but I also remember why I enjoy this city. Today, we

>> ate breakfast at Lowell’s, which is located inside Pike Place Market. The waters of Elliott Bay were restless and choppy and the distant mountains, crowned with grey storm clouds, stood serious and unmoved at the horizon. The morning sun sprayed silver glitter over the bay and a large ship sat patiently at a pier, awaiting its freedom. The food there is good; the views are even better.

>> attended The Cheese Festival. Had we known that this was occurring, we may have skipped breakfast. (Insert “you are what you eat” jokes in here.) Cheese mongers are enthusiastic, warm, and charming (much like the fish mongers). The most memorable blob of cheese I sampled consisted of goat cheese, apricot chutney, and almonds.

>> noshed through Pike Place Market. Today’s nibblings included flavored honeys, sweetened nuts, pieces of fruit, and ridiculously sweet cookies. “Divinity” cookies are not divine; they are dangerous vices. I also find their structural integrity disappointing. Cookies ought not melt in one’s hand.

>> meandered through the Olympic Sculpture Park. I do appreciate Seattle’s dedication to preserving and maintaining park space. I was particularly impressed with “Love & Loss” (with the rotating orange ampersand), “Split” (the metal tree), and “Wake” (the waves composed of nuclear submarines). Neither she nor I are artsy types, but we found ourselves providing thoughtful commentary about our reactions to these pieces of art. Who knew.

>> attended The Underground Tour. It’s been nearly two years since I last took the tour; I still enjoy it immensely. Seattle’s history is quirky and that visitors can actually walk through it is remarkable. I believe the tour is a requisite part of any visit to Seattle.

>> ate a fantastic dinner at Coastal Kitchen. The current menu features Jamaican dishes (the rockfish is delicious). I am never disappointed with my dining experiences there.

Amongst other things, she and I speculated upon attending a medical school reunion. Many of my colleagues are completing their trainings this year; they’ll be attendings while I continue my existence as a resident.

This reminds me that I am growing older—aging! Is it really happening right now?

The wind felt cool against my face and the sun was bright in my eyes. The minute hand continued to sweep across the face of the glowing orange clock.