Waving Goodbye

Growing up, on any important school day, my dad would stand outside of our house and wave as my brothers and I would head to school. And every time, without fail, he would pick up our dog Shiloh, hold her in his arms, and wave her paw around like she was also saying goodbye. Even when I had to turn around to see it, there they would be - both my dad and Shiloh waving goodbye, wishing me good luck on the day ahead.

Years later, this week, I visited home from college. The day I had to return to school, both my parents were out, and only my younger brother was there to say goodbye. I got in the car and backed out of the driveway, and when I looked back - saw my little brother, awkwardly holding happy old Shiloh in his arms, both of them waving goodbye. They stayed until I drove out of sight, wishing me good luck on my day ahead.

There are some family traditions - simple, sweet, and small - that come out of nowhere, surprise you, and mean a whole lot more than you planned for.

I don't plan on too much in the future - but I do know that whatever family I end up with, I will wave them goodbye, and wish them good luck on their day ahead.