One More Turn in the Dance with the Universe

That’s it!

The last chapter of this year on the open road.

Who would have thought I would still be right here today? Not me, that’s for sure.

As I write the final words for this chapter, knowing that the title of my third book is MY Dance with the Universe, it feels like a true dance circle — returning to the starting line, moving once again with all the beautiful souls who are part of me, both at home and on the open road.

My month-long stay at home was full and hectic, but in the most loving way. I received permission from all my doctors to return to the wild. The only issue —and I am totally going to be in denial about it —is that I lost an inch. The good part is that I have more legroom in my tiny bed, or as Norman observed, my “Vanapartment” just got bigger. If you ever ask me my height, I stand firmly: I am still 4’11” (you got that, Diane?) :)

I have made the small adjustment to my setup that I wanted to make. I even got a new mattress that I am looking forward to sleeping on. I also made sure to exercise my right to vote, which is my duty as an American.

My time with my friends felt like charging my batteries. I made sure to spend one-on-one time with each of them.  Of course, we had our annual reunion with my Pit Crew — a gathering that always means so much to me. It feels like having all my holidays rolled into one evening.

I love showing my appreciation for their support because I truly believe that without their presence behind the scenes, living on the open road would be much more challenging. Cooking is another creative outlet for me, and having the opportunity to share my love and gratitude through food feels like a gift.

I love that I had another opportunity to deepen my new friendship with Sash (if you remember, we met on the hike to Ice Lake in Silverton last month). We are only about three hours apart, so we made the effort to meet and spend the day at the Bruce Museum in Greenwich, CT (worth a visit; especially the Jeremy Frey Woven exhibition).

Hiking back on familiar trails always feels like a warm and fuzzy hug. The excitement of riding my bike along the beautiful Seven Lakes Drive in Harriman State Park was another highlight for me. Letting the wind slide over my helmet as I glide down the hills with speed is always a thrill.

It felt wonderful to enjoy my love for biking again, even if only for a short time.

Like another dance that comes to its end as the music fades into the night, it is time to say goodbye.

No matter how many goodbyes there are, they are never easy on my heart.

Once again, I find myself holding the mixed feelings of excitement for the unknown and the ache of letting go of the solid love I know.

Still, this is the life that feels most authentic to me — a rhythm of surrender and trust, of arriving and departing, of embracing and releasing.

To my beloved friends — Eva Marie, Norman, Kim Lori, Howie, Aimee, Mel, Shari, Amy, Wendy, Mike, Leda, Chris, Lauren, and Andy — thank you for always loving me.

Somehow, it feels right to share my poem again. A prayer I recite as I am about to embark on my fourth year on the open road as a happy nomad.

Today, a new chapter — a new circle — begins…

Blessings Woven in Resilient Grace

Dear God, Spirit of the Universe,

With all my heart, I know what my soul desires and where I belong!

Thank you, God, for awakening me to this understanding.

Thank you for giving me the courage to pursue my soul's pure desire for peace and belonging.

Thank you, God, for all the love and blessings you have gifted me in this lifetime.

Thank you for all the beautiful souls you bring into my life. They are treasures I cherish deeply.

Thank you, God, for the challenges that constructed my resilience while teaching me compassion and grace.

Thank you, for my gratitude in finding my wisdom and the beauty and appreciation it brings into my life.

May I find the strength to remain on this path with all the challenges ahead.