Dancing On

Life

Mar 4

Growing up, I didn’t always understand my dad. He was stern and strict and strong-willed and much too serious about everything. He didn’t always make smart decisions, and I wasn’t always a fan of his actions.

But he was my dad, my one father, and as I went from girl to woman, the resent turned into sympathy and ultimately into understanding for the life he led, for the battles he fought and how hard he worked to provide new opportunities for my brother and me, even at the cost of his own success.

When my mom unexpectedly passed away two years go, I finally saw my dad’s vulnerability, his weakness and his undying love for the woman who sacrificed everything for her family, and for the past two years, I have finally understood him. As his caretaker, I got to know him in a different light, and my heart opened up a space for him that had for too long been choked up.

I finally get him, and I now know he’s where he wanted to be, in the arms of my mom where he was always safer and stronger.

Today, I’m imagining Heaven as an all-you-can-eat parrillada where he gets to play pitmaster and use unlimited vats of chimichurri; where red wine is flowing and tarantella is on loop; where Mami is dancing, timidly; and dad is smiling and boasting about having taught her how.

Dance on, my loves. Cheers!

Valeria L. Palmertree

A self-proclaimed dreamer, grammar geek and storyteller with a serious case of wanderlust, I can most often be found somewhere near the water. In addition to beach-combing, my interests include: writing, reading, cooking, dining, listening to live music and taking in the outdoors -- preferably at the same time and in the company of my husband and golden retriever (whom you're likely to meet on these pages along the way).

Originally from Buenos Aires and raised in Miami Beach, I'm fluent in Spanish, Malbecand fútbol. Between the hours of 9 and 5, I'm a communications consultant for travel, tourism and hospitality brands. Additionally, my gig as a freelance writer has given me the opportunity to meet some pretty awesome people along the way. Currently, I'm the copy editor (and a travel contributor) for Electrify magazine. Always the optimist, I believe that connecting with and learning from one another is the surest way to break down barriers and spread some joy. Consider this my virtual olive branch of sorts. <3 xo

http://www.thepalmtreetype.com

Dancing On

American Dreaming

Wander-List 2016