I'm home...

Whenever returning from Michigan on my latest trip to visit Mom, declaring upon arriving Seattle, "I'm home", there would always be a slight hesitation in my thoughts, my voice.  Didn't I just come from "my home"?  Wasn't Michigan my REAL home?  Yes, and no, as it will always be apart of me, but so is Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. I've lived here longer than I did in Michigan. Somehow, this returning feels different, so different. 

Mom and Michigan, grounded me, giving me balance between the east and west coasts.  As difficult as navigating a three time zone difference all these years has been (and will always be - one minute off ;-), I've managed.  One foot was in each, allowing  me to stand strong in both, these past seven years while caring for Mom.  Now I'm off my axis, and trying fo find solid ground again.  

This journey, Mom's end of life, her dying, her funeral, the sorting of 93 years of her earthly belongings, and this trip across the US have each been a journey.  So after saying goodbye to the Montana sunrise and hello to Idaho, I'm finally home in Seattle.  Now the unpacking of this entire journey begins, first my rental car, bags and boxes, and finally my grief.  

I feel like I still have more to say, more to write, so if you care to stay in touch, please do.  There will be more posts to come. This CaringBridge site has brought so much solace and grounding, thank you for being along the journey with me, with all of us. From the deepest part of my being, I'll be forever in gratitude to all of you that read, posted hearts, commented and offered your love and support.  Love, Char