Unexpectedly Free, in a very big way

see all photos »

Wow, little did I know what the first day of February had in store for me.  Without warning I was let go from my job via a telephone call just after I awoke.  This isn't exactly a bad thing, I've been trying to leave telecom for years now, but the lack of a paycheck when I return could be problematic.  Washington unemployment line, here I come!

I think I'm taking it all in stride, and ultimately it's what needed to happen, but the timeframe has been accelerated a bit.  That is also the beauty of this: the timing opens the opportunity to extend my trip in India - vacation time is no longer a limitation.  I have one week to rearrange flights, book hotels, reserve travel within India and investigate if a trip to Nepal is possible.

a bigger beginning than I knew was coming

do I look like I'm upset I lost my job?!
see all photos »

I left for a weekend to ski Mt. Baker with a group of strong, loving, fabulous women and felt a lightness in my heart and an excitement in my soul unlike any I've experienced.  It is the beginning of the next phase, and it is beautiful to be on the cusp of unknown opportunity, both professionally and personally.  I no longer

have fear or trepidation of the trip: I am strong and can weather much.  I'm happy and excited for the journey to begin.  In some ways it already has - can't really ask for much more than *the best* day I've had on the mountain in my entire life as a bon voyage.

Mt. Shuksan 9,127 feet (2,782 metres)
see all photos »

I was talking about the trip this weekend and said I felt like I was destined to meet a very important person on this journey. T-Rex replied "you mean, other than yourself"?  Good point.

Julia, I would like to introduce you to Julia.  I think you're going to have a fantastic time traveling together.