Happy Monday!

I’m easing my way into my week with the delightful realization I have no appointments this week! What a treat! I’m hoping to get myself out for walks and maybe a trip to Goodwill. 

Seattle Phase 2:
I finally have my dates for Phase 2 of appointments in Seattle: February 12-26. Thankfully I only have 1 or 2 things each day so there is room for rest and down time. At the end of trip I expect to have a clearer view of my health and whether or not I have to do anything else before I can be listed. 

Bucket Lists and Rituals:

I have learned that taking time to craft personal rituals when you know a change is happening is vital and important. It allows your heart, mind and body to sink up and say much needed goodbyes to what was, to name what is about to happen, and to cross over with peace and vision. Because so much of transplant is unknown and not guaranteed it has been both sobering and centering to think about what I want to do before I submit to being listed. 

Only one major thing has risen to the surface of my imagination – I want to go to Ireland. Jamie reminded me over Christmas that this was something I have been wanting, and encouraged me to really think about trying to do it before transplant. 

I feel he is right. I don’t usually let myself dream too big. It’s hard to keep having to let things go, and to add to the list often feels cruel and foolish. But this feels a bit different. I want to go less as a tourist and more as a pilgrim visiting a spiritually rich place. There are two people in particular, both in Northern Ireland, who have been lighting up my heart and brain with wisdom and the work they do. If I can, I want to meet them and see their communities. 

I’ve never done anything like a pilgrimage before, it feels daring, extravagant and invigorating to be planning this for real. It also feels like it’s a lot to lose if I can’t do it, and so I’m also thinking about a viable Plan B. 

My timeline for Ireland April-ish (you know, when the weather is best…ha!). It feels far enough out to get the funds together and close enough to hope that my health will hold. 

Thank you in advance for your generous, amazing and continued support. 

Ever and always,
e.