Wanderlust, destiny, or simply following our hearts? Perhaps it’s all of these, woven together in a tapestry of dreams, curiosity, and adventure.

We are about to embark on a journey of a lifetime—my husband, our 7-year-old daughter, and I. Together, we’ve decided to hit pause on the everyday routine and set out to explore the world for a year. Where did this idea come from? It was a seed planted long ago, a tiny spark that refused to die out. Over the years, life happened. We built careers, grew our family, and enjoyed the comforts of a life well-lived. Yet, that spark remained, quietly persistent, waiting for the right moment to ignite.

This seed—this desire—has always been about more than just seeing new places. It’s about storytelling, diving into the unknown, and asking, “Is there another way to live?”

Our journey, in many ways, mirrors that of countless others. We acknowledge the privileges we’ve had—the love of supportive families, the chance to pursue higher education, and the freedom to chase our dreams.

I started in corporate America, driven by a desire to climb the ladder, though I wasn’t entirely sure what awaited me at the top. Eventually, I found my calling in creating a company that served non-profit organizations, where the work is deeply fulfilling.  Kent, my husband, has always been a creator.  His career is layered in creativity and drive and has taken him from creating television programs to working with the Anaheim Ducks and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. For years, he’s thrived as a regional sports host, sharing the stories of athletes and teams with passion and enthusiasm.

Seven years ago, our world expanded in ways we could never have imagined with the arrival of our daughter. Life has been rich, full of joy, navigating life experiences, and yet, we can’t help but wonder: What else is out there? What more can we experience, offer, and contribute?

Curiosity is one of the most beautiful feeling states.  Curiosity has always been our guide—a beautiful, ever-present force that drives us to explore new horizons. We’re curious about the world, about the people we’ll meet, and about the stories waiting to be told.  We are curious in conversations with others, we are learning to be curious about our own feelings and experiences.  And now, our family is curious about how we can experience the world. 

Our intention is simple yet profound: to be together as a family, to explore new destinations, immerse ourselves in diverse cultures, and to weave wellness and mindfulness into our adventures.

This is just the beginning. There are so many layers to uncover, so many stories to share. But for now, let’s embrace the curiosity that drives us.

27 days until takeoff… Stay tuned.

xoxo,

Michelle