Tad, She's a very miserable person right now and she wants you to join her party. Don't respond to the email. She wants a reaction out of you and you don't want to give her one. I find it interesting that she picked the holiday week to text you about the papers and old photos. She's had them for quite some time and she's now advising you that she will be returning them...sounds like her holiday wasn't very good.
Tad, they all attempt to erase the past, but unfortunately, they may get rid of the matieral things, but the memories are etched in their brains and they do come out to play when they least expect it, i.e., a favorite song, food or place. When it is late at night, and it's quiet w/no distractions is when the memories come out in full force. She will discover that she can run, but she can't hide from those special memories as she moves along the path.
Tad, you are not alone in this. We all have watched the "erasing of the past". Yes, it is hurtful, but it is a process that they must go through to clean up their own pasts and face what was and to learn how to grow up.
Tad, keep your focus on you, your children and your new job. Don't give her any more space in your head unless she's "renting".
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
