Dear Diary,
I never imagined I’d be so nervous. The weight of this move is settling in. I have somewhere to be, and a short time to get there, so I’m going room to room, making sure doors are secured, lights are turned off, and that things are in place and the home is secure until I return. I think everything’s good, but just in case, there is one more thing before I go…
To my youngest daughter, Olivia. We made this leap together to California, and now your mom is leaping to Portugal. I wrestled with the thought that I was abandoning you, or leaving you behind without a support system. Before I go, I want to say how amazingly proud I am of you and your drive to make it happen for yourself. You affirm to me how happy you are here in California, and your joy is my joy. I am comforted by the friendships you have formed that will be the family you need in the West. I thank you for genuinely sharing in my excitement, and telling me how I am your hero. I want you to know that if you ever need me, I am just another leap away.
To my oldest daughter, Victoria. You have witnessed your mom change and evolve so much, that I hope I’m still recognizable to you. Before I go, I want you to know that I’m excited to be sitting on the other side of change witnessing all the life transitions happening in your life. I gush and am in awe of it all. Thank you for introducing Duke into my life (the granddog I didn’t know I was ready for), and to the young man who caught your heart and one day will be my son-in love. I want you to know that even afar, I plan to be there for it all – the wedding planning, giving motherly advice on any and everything you want to ask, and being absolutely cray cray over any future grandkids (I promise to behave and stay in my place 😆). I am so proud to see the beauty that is you, unfolding.
I reimagine our bonds stronger and our hearts light as we take flight. I reimagine you two visiting me abroad, and us creating memories we could have never imagined possible. Keep blooming and flourishing, beautiful flowers!