Watching my daughter become a mother this past year has felt like a new chapter unfolding right in front of me; one that is both sweet and powerful. My granddaughter's first birthday is coming up and I find myself thinking about how much has changed over the last year, not only in that sweet little life, but in my daughter too. I see her strength when she's exhausted and her patience in the small routines. It's a surreal and beautiful thing to be in this place - still her mom, but now a grandma too! I'm holding memories close of who she was while admiring who she's becoming.
I’d like to hear if you’ve been at a point when your house that once held so much starts to feel so quiet, and the pull of family has grown louder. For many parents, choosing to leave behind a home full of memories isn’t about starting over. It’s about moving closer to what matters most. I’m honored that I’m able to help a neighbor, and now friends, sell quickly and smoothly which has made their transition a little easier - removing the stress so they could focus on the excitement of what was waiting for them. I'd be lying if I said I wasn’t a little envious. Which leads me to thoughts of what’s next for us.
Lately, I’ve found myself wondering what “next” really looks like for us. For 40 plus years, I pictured winters spent in Florida: in the sunshine and warmth, out of the grey and cold winter temps of Michigan. And I still love that idea. But now life feels fuller and a little more spread out, in a good way. A daughter and her family in Boise who I want to be near. My son and my husband’s kids in Michigan - roots that still tug at me. And somewhere in the middle of all that, my dream that hasn’t let go: a lakefront cottage where time slows down and everyone has a place to enjoy. It’s not as simple as one place anymore, I’m learning that it’s creating a life that stretches between the people we love and the spaces that feel like us. Maybe “next” isn’t a single destination...
So to wrap up - and only because this has been weighing on me for several months - if you’ve gone through a big change, like stepping away from something that once shaped your days, nights, or plans - how has it affected your relationships? Have you noticed shifts in who you feel most connected to, or where you need clearer boundaries? And in all of it, what parts of yourself are emerging now that maybe didn’t have the space before? Just over a year after quitting drinking, I’ve noticed how much it’s reshaped my relationships, my boundaries, and even how I see myself.
All good stuff! I'd love to hear if any of this resonates with you. I don't think I'm alone on most of this and I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for reading,
Sheila
