Goodbyes are never easy

September 19, 2021

Good morning friends.  I hope you are doing well, while staying healthy and happy.  Today is my 100^th blog post.  Who knew what writing every Sunday would become for me.  I suppose it’s my version of creativity.  It’s difficult to imagine I’ve come this far in nearly two years.  What began as a cathartic release for stress and anxiety, has become a weekly ritual for health and wellness.  My wellness is reliant on me maintaining a positive attitude.  Gratitude, happiness and health are my daily goals.  My initial plan was to discuss life and how to live better; while enjoying each and every day.  Little did I know when I began this in November 2019, that a worldwide global pandemic would literally push us (including me) to the edge of our limits.  We’ve experienced some difficult days.  Some of those moments drove me into dark places, yet here I am, grateful and happier than ever.  Don’t ever fear the darkness or change.  Those difficult times allows us to see deeper into our souls.  When I began to examine and dig into myself, I made many self-discoveries that had been long buried.  It became clear who I was, who I am now and what I want and intend to be in my future.  I realized the importance of my mental health and its integral interaction and relationship with my spiritual and physical well-being.

This past week (and really the last 4 to 6 months) have been filled with change, self-doubt and a huge journey.  Today I land in a new place in life; saying good bye to California and hello to South Carolina.  This has been an incredible and crazy journey, both literally and figuratively.  If you want to talk about change, and if it’s positive or negative, I believe I may have an answer.  Life will always have changes.   There’s no way to control or stop them from occurring.  It all comes down to how you perceive, handle and adjust to whatever changes occur.  So many people try to manipulate their lives, believing they can avoid or alter outcomes.  The fact is, we can only do so much to ensure a smooth and productive path.  It’s possible, if you’re willing to put in the work and daily toil.  Like all great things, it takes dedication, determination and effort to live your dreams.  The best way to begin this process and achieve what you desire is to start with gratitude.  It’s a choice I make each morning when I wake up and begin a new day.  I’m happy and grateful to be here and for all the opportunities I have to succeed.  Success does not necessarily mean I’m referring to wealth, fame, fortune or some major event every day.  This is about the small victories that make life incredible and filled with wonder.  A smile has the ability to enhance a person’s entire day.  A “hello” can start a friendship.  A look can create love.  Don’t wake up thinking, I need to land this job, or buy this car, or do something incredible.  Whatever the day brings, there’s no way to fail.  Focus on showing up and doing your best.  Look deeper into what makes the world better, and will bring the most happiness to you and the world around you.  This is your starting point.  Then you can work toward realizing your personal dreams, ambitions and goals.

For me, the journey has taught me to release myself to the universe and relinquish control.  The opportunities increase and new paths open daily.  Now, this new road has brought me to the point of saying, “goodbye.”  I moved to this fantastic beach town over 11 years ago.  I never dreamed I’d leave it.  Now as life changes and new avenues present themselves, my life is taking me in a new direction.   After my home sold, I began a four+ month long search looking for a new place to call home.  I returned to San Clemente this past Tuesday to collect my last few items before moving.  My last two days in this beautiful beach town, brought back fabulous memories of amazing friendships and love.  I sat on the deck at Agostino’s restaurant on Tuesday evening watching the sunset.  It was a spectacular setting over the Pacific (it always is).   It made me sad and happy, as I see how I no longer belong here.  The sunrises and sunsets are amazing, but new versions await on the opposite coast.  I made some wonderful friends and will hold them dear always.  I learned that falling in love with an amazing woman was possible when you least expect it.  Yes, this town holds many fabulous memories that will remain in my thoughts and heart forever.

Saying goodbye, is never easy, but when you open yourself to the possibility’s life has to offer, it can be truly incredible.  I will miss certain aspects of this life here in SoCal.  Now is my time to create new adventures, while seeking and creating a new chapter in my life.  I’m sure there will be more changes along the way.  Happiness, sadness, change and death are inevitable.  My advice, “don’t resist.”  When you learn to adjust, enhance and roll with change, life becomes fun and fabulous.  That doesn’t mean there won’t be sadness or heartache.  It means that when those dark days do appear, you will be better equipped to navigate your way through the darkness and into the light.  Trust yourself and your emotions.  Be true, kind and honest.  The world will love you.    

This past Thursday I began my cross-country adventure.  I wanted to get my truck from the west to east coast.  Driving seemed like the best method.  I won’t say it was or it wasn’t.  This was my journey and life experience.  It won’t be the same for anyone else.  What I can say is, this journey provided me with lots of time for me to think, contemplate and reflect on my life.  I was able to process my past and the emotions I was feeling so I could release them to the universe.  Saying goodbye is never easy.  It doesn’t mean I won’t see you again.  I may not be right around the corner, but you’ll forever be a part of me.  I know the great people in my life will always be in my heart and thoughts.  That will never change.  

So, after a long four days on the road, please understand why this blog is short and hopefully sweet.  I’m a bit tired, mostly from sitting in a vehicle for hours and hours.  If I don’t have to drive anywhere for a while, that’s fine with me.  Today, I begin my new journey.  I wish you all a happy day.  Remember, happiness is all up to you!  Start each day with a happy and grateful heart, mind and attitude.  I guarantee it will set the tone for a more vibrant and fulfilling you.  Happiness and love are created in our hearts and minds.  Be sure to add to your creations daily.  Self-care and self-love are always welcome.   When you take better care of yourself, it’s easier to assist others along their journey too.  Life and changes will continue, but you hold the key to your success.  Follow your dreams.  They know the way.  Welcome to South Carolina!

Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more!  The healthy life puzzle is always in rotation.  Let’s be healthy and strong mentally, physically and spiritually!

Thanks for your love and support!  Embrace Life!  Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!