We lived on Jefferson Street. One spring, after our apartment had flooded for the second time, my mom, sitting in the only dry corner of the kitchen, said “If I had a big house, I would use every room. I would wander from place to place. Maybe read a book, or just think…I would use everything. Nothing wasted. It would be luxurious.” We sat in the dry corner and dreamed of that day. We sat in that corner, not poor, but happy, rich in the wonder. I have to believe she magically, and unselfishly gave all of her wishes to me, because I am living that now. And it is – luxurious…not just for the space, but knowing in my heart, what she gave to me – the gift of seeing beyond.

And I go from room to room. Each one holds a dream for all who visit. Pictured is the USA bedroom. I painted the jeans I arrived in. The jeans I painted in. The jeans I took French classes in. The jeans that came completely and joyfully undone in a world beyond.

Today I write to you from the airport in Paris. We are wandering home, every joy gathered in, nothing is wasted.