A Few Sweet Days, and a Whole Wide Year Ahead

There are days that feel full in the very best way—full of laughter, movement, fresh air, curiosity, and love. These past few days visiting my granddaughter have been exactly that.

Yesterday, when my daughter and son-in-law stepped out for a night alone, I had my girl all to myself. We went on a long walk through Brookhaven, wandering into a greenspace where families gather and children run freely. We played, explored, and soaked up that easy joy that only comes from being outside together. Later, we came home for dinner, and I let her stay up a little late—because some nights are meant for bending the rules just enough to make a memory.

We read books, played, and I found myself mesmerized by her expressions. Her animated little face tells stories all on its own—so expressive, so silly, so alive. Watching her learn and react to the world is endlessly entertaining and deeply grounding. It reminds me to slow down and notice.

Today brought another adventure: a visit to the Atlanta History Center and the Children’s Experience, just the two of us. We stayed for hours—playing, wandering the gardens, running around outside, and dipping into a bit of history along the way. It was one of those days where time stretches and collapses all at once.

We ended our outing with lunch at Souper Jenny, one of my very favorite spots in Atlanta (Charleston really could use one). I happily enjoyed the cauliflower curry soup, while my granddaughter delighted in a PB&J and a banana. I love that she genuinely enjoys fruits and wholesome foods—sweet potatoes are a top favorite—and that even at just 20 months old, she can spend hours learning and playing, then sit calmly with her Honey at a restaurant table and enjoy lunch together.

She fell sound asleep in the car on the way home and transferred straight to her crib to finish her nap—proof once again that she is a wonderful sleeper. That makes my heart happy.

Good sleep is such a gift, and I’m grateful this generation is growing up with thoughtful routines, sound machines, and a real respect for rest. Sleep is health. Sleep is care.

Tomorrow I head home. I’m ready to get organized and turn my face toward a new year, but I’ll miss this little girl more than words can say. I’m looking forward to seeing my son—he’s picking me up from the airport—and I’m holding both gratitude and honesty in the same breath.

I’ll admit, there’s a part of me that feels the quiet when I return to a home that’s just mine. I know many people my age grow very comfortable in their independence, and I respect that. But for me, when you have the right person, there’s nothing sweeter than sharing a home with someone who brings joy to the simplest moments. That chapter hasn’t opened yet—and that’s okay. I’m embracing where I am, while still leaving a small, hopeful door open. I’m not searching. I’m not pushing. I’m simply trusting that if it’s meant to find me, it will.

One thing this visit has given me is confidence—confidence driving all over Buckhead and Brookhaven, confidence imagining different versions of the future. Who knows? Perhaps in a few years, when I’m ready for a bigger change, this part of the world might call my name. Or perhaps somewhere else entirely. I love knowing that there’s nowhere I’d be afraid to call home if the circumstances were right—whether for love, for fun, or for proximity to the people I adore most.

Life really is a highway, and I want to ride it for a long, long time. I want more adventures, more cities, more quiet joys—and always, always time with my granddaughter. And maybe, someday, more little ones too.

For now, I’m stepping into a new year with a full heart, a curious spirit, and deep gratitude for where I’ve been—and for all that’s still ahead.

🍯 Honey Note

Life keeps reminding me that love shows up in many forms—tiny hands wrapped around mine, shared lunches, long walks, and the quiet confidence that I am living fully and well. And while my heart is full, I’m still leaving just enough space for one more kind of love to find me someday.

Not rushed.

Not chased.

Just welcomed, when the timing feels right.

🤍With a full heart,

Honey