Visiting Washington

I hit the ground running after being delayed in Amsterdam. The 10 AM flight from Amsterdam was only 1/2 full, so I got two seats to myself. What a gift that was. I could stretch out, enjoy space, and drink enough water because I could go to the bathroom whenever I needed to. It was an uneventful flight, and my friend Beverly picked me up.

family dinner

She took me to my air bnb apartment, and then we went to Red Lobster. It was delicious. I came back, unpacked, and went out to see Sheila and the grandkids, which was nice. The following day, I saw Rebecca and her daughter, and I saw them all again today. We had a family dinner with Dan, and it was fun. We all got along and were able to show we could be together as a family despite divorce. I have come a long way. I did not think I could, but I did.

Shelby, age 9 but 10 in June

I have been going here and there. I am driving in familiar territory and quite enjoying it. I am surprised at how natural it feels to be back. I have been welcomed with open arms and touched by all the thoughtfulness. I have also really enjoyed spending time with the family. Seeing people I love and care about makes me very happy, and I love the connection.

Alayne, age 9, but 10 in August

Whenever possible, I meet many people at once because it is difficult to see everyone I want to see in a short time and get some tasks done as well. I am absolutely overwhelmed with love and gratitude for this outpouring of love to me. I feel every ounce, and it keeps me going. It makes me sad I can not see everyone, despite my desire to.

Izayah, age 10, soon to be 11

I received a nice text from my granddaughter, who I would have liked to have seen, but we can catch up next time. Dan and I drove together down to our shared building, and I collected materials for our renovations, and he worked. He has been diligent about working there. With an hour drive each way, it is not so easy to stay motivated after several days of driving back and forth, but he has done it. We did many projects together in the past, and we kept our topics to business or the kids. That is progress for me. He has been more gracious than me, but I don’t want to live as a victim. I want to be happy and want the same for him, so bury the hatchet and move on. I think we did well.

I have been terrible at taking photos with people. I should have, but I didn’t. It has been a whirlwind, starting early and going all day, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m looking forward to some more fun this coming week. I have some decisions to make tomorrow. I came home from a long day to flowers picked by the family I am renting from. It was so very sweet. More adventures on the way.

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