My daughter Sofia recently accepted a new job in San Diego. It’s such an exciting step for her, but it leaves me missing the small routines that became part of my life, hearing her funny stories about her day, talking about life, and sharing moments together. I’ll also miss her little companion, Esperanza. Officially named Oxana at the SPCA, she became “the Spur” in our world, though her true meaning was “hope.”
Our walks with Spur were always a mix of comedy and adventure. She barked at toddlers, kids in strollers, teenagers, older adults, no one was left off her list. And while her bark was fierce, that was all it ever was. She was a rescue, set in her ways, and at her age there was no changing her. I’ll never forget the looks of other dog owners as we came down the street, some would quietly cross to the other side, while others smiled and reassured us, “she’s just expressive.” Those daily walks gave me more than exercise; they gave me memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
This isn’t the first time I’ve felt the empty feelings of her moving forward. When Sofia went off to college, the quiet of her empty room was hard to face. But even then, the comfort came from remembering the good times we had and knowing she was only a FaceTime away.
As I write this, I recognize what all parents eventually do, it’s the natural passage of life. We raise our kids so they can move forward, even though letting go is never easy. This time, it feels a little easier than the first, but the ache is still there. At the same time, there’s peace in knowing she’s beginning her next chapter, spreading her wings, and creating new memories. And though I’ll miss seeing them both every day, the love, laughter, and stories will always stay with me.
