Chapter 1

The Arrival

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” - Lao Tzu.

We were only a few streets away from Charlotte’s house. The drive had been long distance-wise, around 10 hours, but we’d been energized with the excitement of moving interstate, and time had passed quickly. In a few minutes, we would arrive. There were many questions before us, but no doubts. My intuition had brought us here, and my intuition had so far served me well.

The sun had already disappeared beyond the horizon, and vivid hues of deep pink, purple, and some orange filled the sky. I took it as a good omen for a rich and colorful life to come.

My husband, Matt, tapped me lightly on the shoulder, “What are you thinking about, honey?”

He continued with a voice of concern, “Are you okay?”

I turned and smiled reassuringly. “Everything’s wonderful”, I said softly, “I know in my heart this is the right thing to do, but I also know that part of starting over involves letting some things go, and I am still coming to grips with that! It may take a while.”