Kimono Moon Shawl

My daughter was never concerned with fashion, makeup, or trends. So, when she told me she wanted to wear a Japanese kimono, I knew it was special to her. My family helped buy her a traditional red silk furisode kimono - with beautiful long sleeves with gorgeous gold and floral embroidery, a black/gold obi (wide belt), and traditional black geta. I made her several delicate pink silk flowers to wear in her hair. The kimono took over an hour to put on, but we had fun. She was so happy and beautiful. Today I realized that was the last time I dressed my daughter or did her hair. Now, she’s an amazing young woman following her dreams across the world to New Zealand. She’s just admitted that she wants New Zealand to be her permanent home. I knew this was coming, but still - ouch. I miss her terribly, but I’m so proud of her. The lace pattern of this shawl and the slim red stripe in the center remind me of her kimono, the silk flowers in her hair, and her beautiful presence in my heart.