If you're reading this, it means you found the little envelope — I was hoping you would.

I made this whole guide for you because the thought of you wandering through a new city, seeing beautiful things, deserves to feel easy and safe and joyful. Every place on these pages, I chose while imagining the look on your face when you finally see it in person.

I've missed you — more than I expected to, honestly. And while I can't walk these streets beside you, I wanted a piece of me to be there anyway: in the directions, the little notes, the restaurants picked just for you, the gentle reminders to drink water and rest your feet.

Promise me you'll stand on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial at sunset. Promise me you'll go early to watch the lotus flowers open. Promise me you'll let yourself be amazed.

You're going to have the most beautiful trip. And when you come home, I'll be right here — wanting to hear about every single day.

Go safely. Pray peacefully. Eat joyfully.

You're past the halfway point. Can you believe it? You actually did it — you packed a bag, flew across the world, and walked into a city you'd never seen, all on your own. That takes a kind of quiet courage most people never find.

I hope the lotus flowers were as magical as I imagined. I hope the National Gallery made you stop and just stare at something. I hope you've eaten well and rested when you needed to and prayed somewhere that felt like peace.

And okay — I have to say it — being with your sister isn't that bad, is it? 😄 She's probably the one making sure you eat breakfast and reminding you to take pictures. Let her. You're lucky to have each other, even when you don't say it.

You're doing so well. Better than you know. Keep going.

Ten more days of wonder ahead of you. ✨

Okay — I'm just going to say it: I'm so incredibly proud of you.

Twenty-five days in a city on the other side of the world. You navigated the Metro, you found halal food in every neighbourhood, you stood at the Lincoln Memorial and looked out over that city and — I know this — felt something you've never felt before.

You almost made it. Actually — no. You have made it. The last few days are just the beautiful ending to a beautiful story.

And your sister! I bet she's tired and happy and the two of you have probably laughed more in the past few weeks than you have in years. Hold onto that. Some of the best memories in life are the ones you didn't expect to make.

Now go enjoy your last days. Walk slowly. Take the long way. Buy one more thing from Eastern Market. Eat one more meal at Maydan.

Come home in one piece. Someone's been looking forward to hearing all about it. 🌸