Roller Coasters

I've been going kind of up and down emotionally this week - I'm so happy for Patrick and his adventure, but stressed about the next two weeks getting him ready to go, and worried about missing him. I get teary at times, but can't contain my pride at others. It helps to have a "project" in mind for the coming year... But it's getting close enough that it freaks me out.

Next week I fly to Houston to help him pack his car, and then I'll drive back to Seattle with him. The car ride will be LONG, but the face time with my boy will be wonderful. He'll have a hard time leaving Haley, but once we're underway, he'll be better, I think. Then we have a week to shop, plan, and pack, and distill his life into two bags plus a carry-on. Yikes.

Travel

I just spent a lovely few days with a friend in Phoenix, and had such a good time. It made me realize how important it is to surround myself with people who challenge me to be my best self. We walked a half-marathon, ate well, shopped, and talked non-stop. What could be better?

My next trip will be trickier. I fly to Houston to see Patrick, and then he and I drive back to Redmond with all his worldly possessions. A road trip. We'll have fun, for sure, but it will also be the beginnings of goodbye. My challenge will be to focus on the joy and anticipation of his Peace Corps adventure in spite of my profound sadness at the prospect of his absence. Hmmmm. The foundation of both the joy and the sadness is love. Must remember that!

This is the stage of my life - letting go of what has been my focus for nearly 23 years. Gracefully. Cheerfully. Sigh.