I’m So Happy You’re Here

I didn't factor in my prior Sunday commitment (the Love Island USA finale). So, this post is being published a little later than anticipated, but here it is! This week’s Sunday Letter includes my deep thoughts about Love Island USA (I know, perfectly timed), an important goodbye from last weekend, and small joys that I found throughout the week.

This was the first season I’ve ever watched of Love Island, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I am fully obsessed. It was like watching a psychological experiment in real time — but in a good way. There’s something so vulnerable about letting the whole world watch as you figure out how to communicate, how to trust someone new, and how to let yourself be chosen. Plenty of absurd moments. But plenty of beauty in it all too. It has been a good reminder that being human is messy. Part of the joy of it is that we get to keep figuring it out, keep evolving, and supporting each other along the way. And then maybe we will win $50,000 too…maybe.

Speaking of growth, I got to see Parker last Sunday. I wasn’t convinced it was even going to happen. I had fully prepared myself for it not to, and because of that, it didn't really hit me until I saw her. But once I did, I just felt this deep, quiet sense of peace. Like something in me clicked back into place. It’s cliché, but I really do believe it’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all. And if you’ve ever loved a pet, you know how deep that love runs. I thought I had already found closure, but being able to say goodbye to her on my terms gave me something different. Something steadier. It felt like I had done exactly what I was supposed to do. Parker was still 100% Parker — desperate to chase a squirrel and perfectly content getting ear scratches. And Birdie…MAJOR little sister energy from that one. Watching the two of them together made it all that much sweeter. It was only an hour, but it will stick with me for a really long time.

And finally, a few moments from the week that made my heart feel extra full. Watching every single person on the elevator crack a smile as soon as they saw Birdie. Bonus happiness for the “that is the cutest dog” “I want one of those” etc. comments I hear as the elevator doors close behind us. The little wet spot on the comforter from where Birdie’s nose is when she’s sleeping. Meeting my friends for ice cream on a 100 degree day (ILY Lik’s). And last, but certainly not least, a phone call from my little brother for no reason other than to catch up on life and read Google reviews about Indian restaurants in suburban Illinois.

So, once again, I find myself reminded that meaning shows up everywhere. Reality shows, goodbyes you didn't think you’d get, and a smile from a stranger. You just have to pay attention and choose to see the beauty in it all.

I’m really excited to keep writing! And as my move-out date gets closer, the posts are bound to be sappier. So, be prepared. But, then I’ll get to write about all kinds of new experiences and adventures, and that’s what I’m looking forward to most. Thanks for reading!

Love,

Allison