“We were together. I forget the rest.” ― Walt Whitman

Did I tell you that I want to New York?!

Julia lived there last year as she served as a Seton Teaching Fellow, so Mary Alice and I took a girl’s trip! We filled the weekend with wandering and amazing food – you know, just your average best weekend ever.

You guys. She was the best hostess. I would have never figured out the Subway system in one weekend. It was so nice to have our very own tour guide!

Watching your little one grow into an adult who is now sharing their favorite things with you might be my new favorite part of parenting.

There are pieces of you within them, but there is something so unique. I found myself just standing back and watching the wind blow through her hair as she glanced around, making sure not to leave out any detail. Seeing the world from her perspective reminds me of walking with her to the park when she was three. She noticed every flower and every lovely doorway. Her enthusiasm spilled over into every moment and she just wanted to make memories with us in her favorite spots.

The night before we visited Saint Patrick’s cathedral, I found out a dear friend passed away from cancer. I had known Lainey forever, and I wanted to send her a prayer card from New York. She was always telling us about her son living in New York and how incredibly proud she was of him. I thought it would make the perfect gift. Knowing that I couldn’t send her happy mail – something she was known for – made my heart ache. When I walked into Saint Patrick’s, I wanted to say a special prayer for her. I let the girls go ahead and spent time in the prayer chapel. When I walked out, I walked a few steps and saw it.

A painting of Saint Charbel was the very next thing I saw after leaving the chapel. I had been asking him to intercede for Lainey for two years. He had been my prayer partner in the middle of the night when I prayed for her healing. He had been who I asked to intercede when she commented on my Facebook posts, inviting prayer requests. I felt so comforted by my friend at that moment. I felt so connected to the Saints, the cloud of witnesses who have gone before us. He had heard me. He had prayed for Lainey. The peace joyfully surrounded me.

Julia surprised us with a carriage ride through Central Park. Our guide was kind and charming, with a thick Irish accent. (Having adult children that arrange surprises for you may be one of my favorite things ever!).

We saw the Lion King on broadway and I was mesmerized. It was better that I ever could have imagined! The actors, the costumes, and the music were flawless. Being there with Mary Alice and Julia is a memory I will have forever.

I never thought I’d make it to New York, but I’m so very glad we went. I’m learning to just go. Take the trip. Don’t worry about what won’t get done. It will be there when you get back. But, these memories won’t wait.