European Adventure

I got a little off track with sending my October newsletters — life has a way of changing our plans!

A lot has happened over the past 45 days. I had an amazing trip to Germany and France — truly a trip of a lifetime! I loved experiencing the culture, history, and food. I discovered schnitzel, October beer, and New Wine in charming German towns. I savored relaxing and cruising down the Rhine and Seine rivers.

Of course, travel isn’t always picture-perfect. The long plane rides to and from Germany felt endless, and my suitcase decided to take its own adventure for a few days! The crowds at Notre Dame, Monet’s Gardens, the Louvre, and the Opera House were irritating at times — and then I’d turn a corner and see something so breathtaking that everything else simply fell away. I must have said “beautiful” a thousand times, and still it didn’t come close to capturing how I felt. Again and again, I found myself in awe.

What fascinated me most was how these countries weave their past into their present. Everywhere seemed to honor, respect, and cherish their history — not just the last hundred years, but centuries of it. Notre Dame, completed in 1260, stands even more radiant after its recent restoration.

Being surrounded by so much history and beauty had an unexpected effect on me. Sometimes I felt small — even insignificant — in the face of it all. Looking at cathedrals and timeless works of art can do that.

I found myself wondering: What will my legacy be? How will I be remembered? What difference will I make?

As I wrote this, I realized that the past several Octobers brought me many challenges. Each year seems to force me to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. Some people do this around their birthday or at the new year. For me, October is a time to look inward and make sure I’m still aligned with what matters most.

I invite you to do the same. Take a few moments to reflect: What will your legacy be?

How do you want to be remembered? What small thing can you do — today — to make a difference?

We may not build cathedrals, but we can still leave beauty behind in our kindness, courage, and connection.

I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Tiny Self-Care Tip

You don’t need a passport to escape — just close your eyes. Picture a place that brings you peace: a quiet beach, a cozy cabin, a café by the river. Take a slow breath in and imagine being there — the sounds, the air, the calm. Even a two-minute mental getaway can refresh your spirit.

What I’m Reading

“The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins, I’m intrigued by her theory that ”the key to happiness, success, and love is as simple as two words, Let Them and this book will show you exactly how to do it.”

Check it out and join me for book club!

Until next time, keep tending your journey and savoring life’s moments.