I’m Here: Support from 700 Miles Away

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Guys. This mom thing is hard, but y’all know that. Charleston is a remarkable place.  You’ve seen it top the lists, so it’s no surprise that people are moving to the area in droves. The Charleston area now averages 43 newcomers a day.  My husband and I are among the newcomers.  We’ve been here for three years now, and Charleston is finally home.

Working from home, I found that some of my best friends down here are those who I’ve meet through various meetup groups.  We share a common bond with many of those who I’ve met during these meetups – new to the area, hundreds, sometimes thousands of miles away from most friends and family.  Work, in many cases, has brought folks here, others, like my husband and I, were drawn to the beautiful beaches and scenery, amazing food, and a slower pace of life (compared to the NE) and took a leap.  That leap is not without its drawbacks.  Many who move here leave friends and families, and that can be very challenging. It’s amazing how technology helps bridge the geographical gap to connect with loved ones, but it doesn’t replace the ability to get in the car to be at a close friend’s house in less than 30 minutes when she is at her breaking point.

I’m not there, but I’m here.

The 3 a.m. shares of funny articles because a friend is pumping, and I just happen to roll over and check my phone because my one-year-old won’t stop squirming – I’m here.  Yes, wine at 3 a.m. DOES sound delicious.

The 5 a.m. text message that take three finger swipes to get through because the second random puke session and a week home from daycare, coupled with a trip to the ER, while still recovering from hand, foot and mouth – happened in a week – a phone call and a few shared tears helps.  I’m not there, but I’m here.

Showers, first birthdays, christenings, promotions – daycare drama, in-laws, deaths – I’m not there, but I’m here.

Texts, phone calls, FaceTime, and social media make these moments easier, and I’m grateful for that.  I’m also thankful for all of my friends and family, near and far, who are always there for me too, even when they can’t be here. xoxo