Spent the day in the city with my daughter.

We parked downtown, walked for what felt like miles, the early hustle smelled delightful.

Saw colors in every direction.

We laughed, we sampled stores out of our comfort zone, drinks, food, books, music and art, as well. Our eyes sparkled in intrest.

We danced through walkways, giggled past what we knew we’d never understand, and held hands.

We reintroduced ourselves to chopsticks via YouTube and introduced ourselves to the sushi bar & spicy tuna.

We mused how shy girls could ever possibly find their voice, and teared up when the Columbian bracelets we admired were made for those who needed to learn how to communicate.

We wear matching aquamarine stone bracelets now, and thanked fate for bringing our conversation, in the car ride over, full circle.

We painted and sang without a care in the world. Allowing who we are a place of comfort – us, showing our little girl.

Busy streets we drove on and found parking within offered an exciting challenge,

But something changed inside of me as my daughter confessed,

“Momma, look at all we did just us – no men.

No brother, no daddy, …”

At 15 she felt empowered and ready for another adventure to begin.

Of course, my daughter, you are right. I’ve taught you how to live.

I mused quietly to myself, yes, yet again…

Just wait.

One day you’ll feel your hand within his,

or its warmth guiding you at the small of your back,

you’ll stand a bit taller with his palm holding your elbow, as you move along,

his stature in true protection will leave you in awe,

and his voice in your ear, at the end of the night, the one making up a lullaby song,

will be the reason doing life alone feels so wrong.