Sometimes, we underestimate how difficult intentional change can be.

We tell ourselves that purposeful change—change that aligns with where we want to be and what we want out of life—should feel easy (or at least, shouldn't hurt).

But that's nonsense.

Letting go of something you built is hard. Even when you're ready.

I didn’t just leave a house behind. I left a piece of myself behind.

And that piece of me being left there? She (and her memories) deserve to be honored, not rushed past.

• The late nights with a colicky newborn (Noah).

• The nightly chorus of Rio Grande Chirping Frogs.

• The splash birthday parties in the backyard.

• The hoo-hoo of the Great Horned Owl (right outside our bedroom window).

• The remodel that took months off my life (worth every frustrating minute).