Messy Midlife Modifications

This week, I'm writing from St. John, USVI. Ten years ago I was able to visit Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, and I remember it being the first time I truly understood what island time meant. Everything happened at its own pace, I spent that week with no real schedule, I was in bed not long after the sun set and up for sun rise.

This trip, ten years later, has been much the same. I'm with different people, but my goal to truly relax and enjoy the beauty of my surroundings is the important part. I came in with no real plan, I've reprioritized my top beaches to visit and things to do each day based on how I feel. I've opted for PB&J and fruit instead of eating out every night and I have barely put on makeup.

All of this because who knows when I'll get to do something like this again. I've been traveling for years. I often said, I worked so I could travel. I ended up in a job that had me on the road a ton and somehow I still would sneak in personal trips. And I got tired. The airport wore on me. The hotels lost their charm and there's only so many ceasar salads to try before they all start to taste the same.

Over this time, I've met my husband, I've settled into a home I love, and I've embraced the town in which we live. When I do travel, I have found far more enjoyment in extended trips where I can immerse myself in my surroundings and not feel rushed. So, this current trip will be the last one for a while.

I know focusing on this company, on this work and on my relationships and network is important. This vision needs my full attention to see if it can truly be successful. I never thought I'd get to the point where the instagram reels or tiktok videos of new and exciting places made me feel more tired then enticed, but that's where I'm at. Maybe it's just a phase, but I'm truly thankful that I have been able to see so many incredible places in these 40 years. It's a blessing to have been able to afford these adventures and experiences and to be in good enough health to participate to the best of my ability.

But my heart is with my home, with what I know I have the power to impact and make change in, with the collision of this midlife awakening and, I'm excited.

In recalling all of these adventures, here are some of the places I've had the chance to visit - reach out if you'd ever like to know more!

St. John USVI

Norway

Ireland

France

New England (MA, ME, NH, VT, NY)

Florida (Tampa area)

Utah & Arizona (road trip)

St. Lucia

Belize

Hocking Hills, OH

Shenandoah National Park

Holbox, Mexico

Dominican Republic

Jamaica

British Virgin Islands

Washington (state)

Denver/Colorado Springs

Tennessee

Kentucky

Chicago, IL

Southern California