Tomorrow I fly home, leaving Daughter2 to her new life in Perth. She “suggested” that I dedicate a post to her and tell everyone how wonderful she is and how much I love her. Really, where does she get it?

My children are the most important people in my life, as is Mr FD and the rest of the clan. I love them all dearly, and of course they all adore me.

If I ever grow up, I know I want to be like Daughter2 who has perfected living in the moment. D2 is confident and sure in what she likes and “dislikes” (I say “hate” which annoys her beyond belief and makes it all the more enjoyable for me). Every thing she does is performed with calmness and thought, even the choosing of a tea, or a hand cream. Life is a series of small moments, from the glass she drinks from and what she drinks, to the shower caddy in her bathroom and the soap she uses. Quality, beauty, function and form; never quantity.

Every restaurant she has taken me to on this trip has been designed to give us a new experience. At the same time our food is chosen to provide health and goodness. Our activities provide activity for our brains and our bodies. It is pure joy to trail behind her as she makes her way through her day.

My children have all taught me things over the years. From this daughter I have learned how to treasure new experiences, push through old boundaries, fears and what seems insurmountable obstacles; embrace the untried and search for that which will help me grow in mind and body. Organisation, focus and purpose are as natural as breathing to her (now I know she was switched at birth) and every moment is treated with respect and gratitude.

I marvel at her ability to make friends and continue long and often distant friendships. Her delight in making others happy is a pleasure to witness. She finds being nice no effort unlike her mother, though she can threaten to kill me should I not reign in my true instincts. Some might consider that a public service, however!

So yes, she is wonderful to me, and yes, I do love her with all my might, but more than that, she is a good person, a successful and independent woman, and a caring soul. I am proud and humbled to be her mother. Thank you for being my daughter, and for a lovely and highly memorable week. Mama loves you.

And did I mention she is unmarried? Talk to the mother.