Farewell to the open road

Just when you think you're at full capacity and can't possibly fit more into your world, life says "Have some more!".

I'm starting to believe that you can never really have it all together.  There will always be curveballs, bumps, detours and dead ends.  You can't predict or foresee.  You can only grab on to the reigns of life and hold on tight.

Over the past 3 weeks, it seems as though my entire life has changed.  Not only will I be married by the end of the summer and have a new name but I have a new car and will be starting a new career next month.  I've been in search of "the" job for several years now and, with a bit (a lot) of patience and even a few (many) tears, I was hired in my dream position.  I've been in my current field of work since I was 22 and, although I'm beyond excited and ready to start my new job, I'm realizing how much of my life and relationships were defined by my old one.

My old job saw me through growing up.  Eighty percent of my 20's were spent traveling all over Canada and the Caribbean, networking and forming friendships, racking up loyalty program points, attending conferences and dinners...  Pretty lucky right?  I'll refrain from describing the not-so-amazing parts of the job.  The glamour certainly wears off but I can't help but feel so grateful for the experiences I've had and the people I've met along the way.

I've come leaps and bounds from the young university grad starting this job.  I've learned to work hard and to always smile (save the swearing for the car) and the underestimated art of being genuine.  I now know the meaning of "island time" and that "dolphin" in Barbados is actually just mahimahi.  I understand the importance of listening more than talking.  But more than all those things, I know that you can spend a few days or a few years with someone and be connected to them for life.  I will miss my road warrior family probably more than I even know.  May you all drive safe, eat well and perform only sing-along songs at karaoke.  Thank you for your love, support, late-night ice cream and questionable group pics.