Day 1,369 – Finding Joy in the Journey – Tuesday – 8/3/2021
it was six years ago tonight
It’s hard to believe it was six years ago tonight that I was awoken from me sleep to learn that you had passed away. I’m so glad a friend gave me the advice to call you earlier that evening. The phone was held up to your ear so I could tell you how much I loved you and how glad I was that you are my Dad. I didn’t want to think it was my last conversation with you though in my gut I knew it was. I’m glad I had that chance.
I remember a few days earlier, before you left Texas to spend the week in Minnesota, you uninvited me from going on the trip with you and mom. I’m so glad the two of you had that drive together. She would tell me about it later and how special your last few days together were. I remember the business advice you gave me that day as well. I’ve held it near and dear and will remember it always.
Miss you lots Daddy! Think of you often and you were in my dream the other night. I miss mom too, though know you are happy to be together again. I love you and thanks for being my dad. Don’t worry about me, your baby girl is doing good! There are days I wish you could see me now though in my heart I believe you can.
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.
