Goodbye Dubai, Hello US

I have felt the sand storms of Dubai, tasted the sweet apple tea of Turkey, and admired the mountainous views of Oman overlooking the Indian Ocean. At this time of my life I consider myself lucky.

Lucky to have been brave enough to see the world outside of New Jersey. I grew up knowing I would be an adventurer but never a world traveler. Now that I am back in the United States, all looks the same yet I’m different. In Dubai I use to fantasize about the things, people, and food I missed.

Wondering if old friends were still getting together? Did the food taste the same? Most importantly I always thought of the warmth of my mother’s hands. On the plane ride back from the sandy oasis I called home for almost three years I thought of all the people I would call. All the food I would eat. The freedom of public displays of affection to my husband without making others uncomfortable.

Although I smiled towards my new chapter, I felt a little sad. Sad to leave the beautiful inland I woke up to every morning. The walks along the beach and the sounds of little Arab children playing soccer in my hallway.

I remember the crashing of the ocean as it kissed the shore was the perfect prescription for my stress. I will think fondly of the days I laid in the sand with my eyes closed just listening to the waves as the water massaged my feet. I’ll miss the footprints that I made in sand that are now left behind.

Traveling while living aboard helped me discover so many things about myself. I learned that I am not afraid to take a chance and live outside my comfort zone. I learned that these things are necessary to have a more fulfilling and joyful life.

It sounds good to say but it feels even better to do. Now that I have started this new life and chapter here in North Carolina I am too excited to see where this will lead me. I know that I have been so blessed to have such a supportive family, friends, and husband at my side during these transitions.

For those who are reading this, I want you to live life in a way that makes you excited. Hug when you can and love all the time. Try something bold and it can make you someone new. Show fear the door and welcome experience in.

We get one take at this thing called life so you might as well make it the best motion picture the world has ever seen.

I love you for reading.

xoxo Jersey