Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine being where I am today. With all honesty, I still can't believe it. Here I am, starting Chapter Three.
Happy anniversary to me!
Little did I know that I was embarking on a journey with no return on October 2, 2022.
Let's recap…
Chapter One was titled "I AM!: A Self-healing and Self-discovery Journey through Fear and Friendships." Many of you encouraged me to turn my writing into a book, and I finally did (available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4wUDlxu). It still doesn't register with me that I've published a book. What is more bizarre to me is discovering my ability to write. Today, I call it "the treasure box I found inside of me."
Even though I am a solo traveler, I always know I am not alone, as I have the most incredible support from my friends at home. Eva Marie, Norman, Kim Lori, Aimee, Wendy, Mike, Shari, Mel, Amy and Marianne—you are my rock! From the bottom of my heart, I am deeply grateful for each of you. Your love means the world to me.
And, of course, my boys, Adi and Ron, thank you for believing in me. Thank you for spreading your wings and letting me spread mine.
Some of you have been following me from the beginning. Can you believe our friendship is two years old? Yes, even though you may be a stranger to me, I still feel your love and support and am honored by it.
Chapter Two was "Traveling with the Wind to Find My Soul." I said in the past that Chapter One had to be beyond incredible (and it was) to keep me on this path. Chapter Two certainly brought many challenges, or as I call them now, "squeezes." It provided valuable lessons that only experience could teach me. You can read Chapter Two on my blog on Substack (https://substack.com/@nomadiccolorguru).
Now, how did I come up with the name for Chapter Three, "My Dance with the Universe."
I can no longer ignore the feeling that I've been placed on this journey. I am on a fascinating spiritual path like no other. Last year, I opened my heart to the universe's glory, felt the magical presence of God, and received pure love when I surrendered. I am curious to see where life will take me if I embrace the dance with the universe and let her lead me to my purpose and destiny.
She looks into my eyes with love and support while holding my hand, firm and strong. She lets me know it is okay to let go and accept her hand for a lifetime of dance.
Yes, dancing has a strong positive meaning for me. But I am fully aware that the universe might throw me to the ground now and then, testing my strength and resilience to get back on the dance floor. It may take time to find my footing, but I hope that while I am down, I'll have the patience to remind myself that this too shall pass.
Even though it feels like a setback, moving back to my apartment and not being on the road as planned, I still stand in the middle of the arena, moving slowly and steadily, accepting God's plans, and surrendering to the universe's dance with a full heart.
And yes, there are those moments when fear creeps in, trying to steal the essence of "me," so I take a deep breath, chant "faith over fear," jump on my bike, or head to the woods…
Two days ago, I moved back to my apartment. It was a day full of mixed emotions. I've owned it for seven years, and it was the first time in my life that I had a space that was all mine. I still remember my first night, falling asleep with a huge smile on my face.
It took me several months to turn it upside down and make it mine. I was my own client, and for the first time, I could make decisions without compromising. I magically created a rustic feel blended with an elegant touch, just like me :)
In a few days, I will put it on the market and let life continue to unfold…
In the meantime, I am still in limbo about what's next, as the position at Yosemite's Wawona Hotel no longer exists due to the hotel closing its doors for a few years for major renovations. I am waiting to hear back from Zion Lodge to see if the position is still available.
I am spending many hours sending resumes and applying for jobs. Many ski resorts have plenty of work; however, if housing is not provided, the cost is quite high. If I were a strong skier, I would consider taking advantage of the free skiing and finding a way to dodge the high rent prices.
Believe me, I am not in La-la land. I am fully aware that what we want or need in life doesn't always happen when we expect it to, and sometimes it may not happen at all. However, I refuse to give up just because fear is gripping me in the pit of my stomach (sometimes to the point of physical pain). If there's anything I've learned in the last two years, it's the importance of resilience and patience to stay the course (and it's always a blessing to have a friend to remind you of that.). I owe it to myself to give "the gift of a chance" to live the life I dream of.
I am still on the lookout for long-term house-sitting opportunities as well.
Isn't the idea if you put it out there, it will come... :)
I will keep you all posted...
FYI: Most of my job leads come from the CoolWorks.com website, which has been a great resource. I've learned that several companies place seasonal workers in National Parks. These companies include Aramark, Xanterra, Delaware North, and Pursuit.
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