Day 1,097 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Wednesday – 11/4/2020

This Past Year

I’m declaring it “Finding Joy in the Journey” Day! Please share with me one Joy you have found in your Journey during this past year.

Today marks the 3-year anniversary of the start of Finding Joy in the Journey. I’ve received many questions over the past three years on how and why this series was started. So, in honor of the anniversary, here’s the back story….

It was November 2017, and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip. Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core. I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life. And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents.

I contemplated cancelling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life. My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So, I promised my parents to find joy in the journey every day on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others.

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis and that it would still be going three years later. Sharing my joy has helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire you to find joy in your journey.

Cheers and thanks for coming along for the ride!

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,096 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Tuesday – 11/3/2020

Packing My Suitcase

It’s really weird to not be packing my suitcase for the SendOutCards Annual Convention this year. I attended my first Convention in 2010 and have attended all of them since. I will miss the hugs and seeing so many of my friends in person.

2020 has been an odd year in so many ways. This weekend is our Annual Convention and because it is virtual so many more people will be able to attend. That makes me happy as I know we are helping to change lives through our product and our opportunity. Plus this weekend at our Convention, we will be making a big announcement about #ABetterWay!

Love these goodies I got in the mail to help cheer on and be interactive with our virtual event. It will definitely be different this year though I believe this will be our best Convention yet!

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,095 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Monday – 11/2/2020

An Amazing Friend

When I moved into my new house 2.5 years ago, I had no idea that I would also find such an amazing friend across the street.

It’s amazing to me how friends come into your life. It at one point you choose to turn left instead of right, your life and your friendships could be very different. Thank you, Tina Nguyen Burr, for your friendship and always being there for me! I’m so glad we became neighbors!

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,094 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Sunday – 11/1/2020

Y6 Riverstone Family

So great to be back in town for the Grand Opening of the yoga studio I am a member of. Love being part of the Y6 Riverstone family! Sunday morning Sculpt & Flow with my girlfriends and three teachers! What a great way to start the week. Plus, we got fun goodie bags with so many great treats!

#LovePeopleLoveLife #IInspireFreedom

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,093 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Saturday – 10/31/2020

Welcome Back

After being gone for three weekends in England it was nice to get back to Sweetwater Country Club for a few rounds of golf. It was wonderful to hear welcome back! I love belonging to a place where people care about what’s happening in your life. Plus, it was a beautiful weekend to play golf with my friends. I do feel blessed for picking up golf as a major hobby during 2020!

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,092 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Friday – 10/30/2020

Carving Pumpkins with Friends

I have not carved a pumpkin since I was a kid. What a great way to spend a Friday evening and the eve of Halloween by carving pumpkins with friends. Who says you have to be a kid to do fun things like this! Even as adults, we need fun creative projects, things we enjoyed at kids, to help us slow down and enjoy life more!

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,091 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Thursday – 10/29/2020

I Love being an American

I Love being an American and I feel blessed that I was born and raised in this country. As I believe in our country and that believe that it is important for every American to vote. Make your voice heard by voting. Not every country has the freedom and the ability to vote like we do. And as my mom would always tell my grandpa…”If you don’t vote, you don’t get to bitch.”

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,090 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Wednesday – 10/28/2020

As I said goodbye to Steve

As I said goodbye to Steve to catch my flight back to the US, I was very grateful I could spend almost three weeks in the UK with him. I’ve learned that I can make plans though some things are out of our control. The last time I said good-bye to Steve at the airport was in February and the plan was I would be back six weeks later. Then the world the shut down a week before I was supposed to fly back.

I don’t think any of us expected that seven months later we would still be dealing with Covid. I was told I was lucky to travel. I do feel fortunate and blessed to be able to have the resources and time to travel to England. Some may have thought the decision was risky. And maybe. Though at some point you must determine what’s best for you and your loved ones and in this case, Steve and I decided this was best for us and our marriage.

We still have no idea

We still have no idea when he will be in the US. We are awaiting an email to tell us the date of his interview at the US Embassy in London. We don’t know when the email will come though have the faith that it will come.

I’ve thought a lot about why he’s not here yet. Is there a lesson in all of this for us? For me? I believe we can always learn lessons in our journey.

I’ve learned that I cannot always control what happens, though I can control how I act and react. I can make decisions on the information I have at the time. I wish I would have doesn’t serve me as well as what can I do in this moment. I’ve learned that our love is stronger than our situation. I’ve learned we can handle more than we think if we have faith and let God.

I also know this is the man I want to be with and he’s worth the wait and what it takes to make this happen. I love you Steve!

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,089 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Tuesday – 10/27/2020

My Last Full Day in England

My last full day in England for this trip. I put the work away and Steve and I spent the day making memories. We had a lovely lunch at one of my favorite places – The Blockley Café. It was a wonderful day hanging out and being together.

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.

Day 1,088 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Monday – 10/26/2020

I Received the Call

It was three years ago today that I received the call that no child ever wants to get. By the time I reached the hospital, my mom was already gone. An unexpected heart attack for a woman who was so full of life.

I took an hour and a half walk in the English countryside this afternoon and spent much time reflecting on her. She loved to paint and there was one area of my walk that reminded me of the landscapes she painted. When I took this photo, I knew it would be the one I shared in her memory. I have many of her landscape paintings in my house. She always said it was her therapy after my dad passed.

As she loved to paint to find healing, I have realized that I find my healing in two areas – one is in solitude on my walks. No headphones, no multi-tasking, just walking and absorbing the beauty of nature around me. The second is in my writing. To let the words from  my mind transcribe to the page is therapeutic and healing. We had always talked about writing a book together.

Rarely does a day go by that I don’t think of my mom. I am grateful the gifts she has given me.

About “Finding Joy”

And I’m off…. the 16-day adventure begins. The timing of this trip is interesting so I’m naming it “Finding Joy in the Journey.” I’ll be doing one dedicated post each day (at the end of the day or next morning). Since I typically post more than once a day, you’ll find it as a black and white photo. I’ll share the joy of the journey (on the trip or through this season), where I’m finding it and what I’m learning. I hope to inspire myself along the way. And if I can inspire others too, that would be a gift. So let the journey begin…

It was November 2017 and I was ready to head off on a sixteen-day trip.  Nine days before leaving, my mom unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack. It shook me to my core.  I had always been told the 40’s are the best years of your life.  And in a matter of three years, since turning the age of 40, I had gone through a divorce and lost both parents. 

I contemplated canceling the trip though I knew my mom would not be happy with that decision. She would want me to continue living my life.  My parents did not raise me to sit back and watch life; instead to fully participate in every moment. So I promised my parents to find joy in the journey everyday on my sixteen-day trip and share my experience with others. 

Little did I know what “Finding the Joy in the Journey” would turn into when I acted on the prompting to share my experience on a daily basis.  It helped me see life differently and my wish is that it will inspire others find joy in their journey.