Another aunt and two cousins set off for Australia yesterday. More than half my mom’s side of the family are now in Perth. I was particularly sad to see them go because it’s only in the last few months that I’ve really started spending time with them – outside of the family gatherings that used to be our only contact – and it’s such a pity that we didn’t make the effort years ago to see more of each other.

I think this might be a little progress, though, cos while I was still sad, I didn’t feel as bereft as I expected. Partly that was due to their excitement and obvious delight to be moving – how could I begrudge them that out of a selfish desire to have them around for me? But I was also able to see it in a slightly more positive light and remind myself that we’ll stay in touch, and who knows, maybe I’ll be able to go over to visit someday!