You don’t get to where you’re going by being where you’ve been

“You don’t get to where you’re going by being where you’ve been.” I just typed this quote to a friend on LinkedIn and realized that it was actually meant for me, too. There are many versions of the quote that are somewhat contradictory, but this version speaks to me about change and uncertainty and big life changes and also about going back to your roots.

On April Fool’s Day 2024 (no joke!), I officially resigned from my executive corporate role and exchanged my corporate ID card for a travel pass to chill and be a mom. I gave myself two months to clean every closet, paint, redecorate, and just BE. Then, the kids were out of school and the summer flew by. Our little ladies and I kayaked, hiked, shopped, hung out, worked out, traveled many places, and traveled no places. We had sleepovers (MANY) and we laughed (A LOT) and sometimes we had deep conversations about God and Love and Beanie Boos and how to care for animals. We celebrated my twin nephews’ high school graduation in VA Beach. We took my mother-in-law to the Czech Republic to stand on the farm where her ancestors lived, and we spent two weeks exploring the country.

This morning, as my girls left for Middle School, I realized how much I have grown with them over my “sabbatical.” I also realized how much I have learned from them about what is truly important in life.

The next chapter is upon us. We are truly blessed.