Thoughts from the Air, Part II

August 19th, 2011

This weekend I took a whirlwind trip to San Francisco for my sister’s bachelorette festivities.

It was the first time I’d left my girls overnight (and the first time not sleeping beside Ant since we were married five years ago). My first note is about my Ella. This post is for my sister, on the other end of my trip.

For my sister,

We’ve seen each other off too many times to count. It all feels routine now – the swift jump out of the car at the drop-off, the hesitant hug (like if we put it off, we wouldn’t actually have to let go), and the inevitable tears that gather too quickly. We’re used to it. Only this time I’m the one leaving

And while that makes me sad, I am happy to go through that drop-off dance because it means that I came in the first place.

As the plane takes off, I am watching the millions of tiny glowing lights twinkle below me and it makes me marvel. In this giant city, so unlike the one you grew in and came from, you have found your home. Among all these lights, you’ve added your own. You have always shone brightly and you have found your place to do it.

This is not new to me. We’ve visited many times over the past several years, and each time I can see the fit. This weekend, though, made me know for certain. I didn’t come to see the sights around the city. In fact I came for the best attraction of all – a celebration of you.

I am honored to have met your “tribe.” This amazing group of women, each admirable in her own rite, who take care of one another. I was witness to the warmth and love that they bestow upon you every time you meet. I can’t tell you how happy it makes me to feel all that joy and love directed to you.

You have found a match in them as well and I am so proud of you for finding that family.

Mommy, Daddy, and I, I think we always sort of hold out hope that one day you’ll change your mind and decide to come back “home.” We really know deep down that it won’t happen, but the idea is always there.

After this weekend, it won’t be so hard to accept that the place we refer to as home is different than yours.

I am incredibly proud of you. You’ve etched out a life to take honor of. You’ve found yourself in a family that inspires, nurtures, and promotes you to thrive as yourself. And you’ve found your Ben, and in 43 days you will be married.

What an honor to be a part of this celebration of you.
What an honor to get to know your tribe.
What an honor to be your little sister.

Here’s to my Fooza – I can’t wait for October.

tags: Travels
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