Hey June!

It's summer (unofficially, of course but who's counting after Memorial Day!) and the mood is right to get more ideas out into the world! This summer is particularly a new and exciting one because of all that's going on:

1. My first summer in my new home in a new city, Milwaukee WI! That's right, I'm a midwestern gal these days! If you know anything about Milwaukee, you'll know that Milwaukee is the city of festivals (think Summerfest, Mexican Fiesta, Juneteenth, etc) and the summer is a WHOLE vibe. Everyone is all the way outside and fully indulging in the warmth, both literally and figuratively as it passes away as quickly as it comes--given the extensive winter and darkness that we experience here for a good portion of the year. I'm ready and committed to diving right in!

2. My first summer professionally outside of higher education. Yep! I took a leap and decided to pursue a different career path after 10+ years as a higher education enthusiast. I am currently working for the philanthropic powerhouse, Greater Milwaukee Foundation, a community foundation in Southeastern Wisconsin centered on advancing racial equity and building a more equitable Milwaukee, one that embraces, empowers, and enhances a high quality of life for all who call it home. I am putting my event hat on in a full-time capacity in my role as the Senior Events and Convening Specialist.

3. I'm planning a wedding...my wedding! Yes, you heard that right. I am getting married to the love of my life in my hometown (yes, I am also planning a wedding away from where I live). And it's a gift but also a lot of work. I have always been a bridesmaid and never a bride and I definitely overestimated how much help that experience would be. It is a whole different ballgame to plan your own wedding even after standing by countless friend and family members on their special day. On the other hand, up until I got engaged, I didn't really think this day would come--I had doubted the possibility of me getting married given the trajectory of my life but that's a different story for a different day.

4. I am starting afresh. I left the familiar behind...friends, family, church, creative communities, career bubble, local cafes and restaurants, fall foliage, you name it--I had a lot in New England and I took a brave step of faith to start over again and immerse myself in a new and daunting chapter. I still have my friends and family from a distance, but it's not the same and trust me, it's been a journey. But I will say, be careful what you wish for as I had secretly hoped for some time now that I would experience life in a new place a considerable distance from home--and here I am, in Brew City, where beer, cheese, and sports are abundant, but so is amazing art, incredible food, world-class cultural destinations, talented people, and a layered and complex history. I'm learning everyday and growing prouder and more excited to call this place home. In some ways, it reminds me of home, but with a twist. Sometimes I am overwhelmed with all the new, but at the same time, I count myself blessed to be able to experience this new life that I am creating day by day, step by step.

5. I'm taking a chance on my writing. As I move and occupy this new space and emerge as this new version of me, I feel an increased sense of urgency to express myself and to share my talent and experience in written form. Those who know me well, know that writing has always been a part of me and my life, but what you may not know is that I have never been consistent with it. I have never made a reliable habit or practice of writing, and I think that even with everything happening in my life and even more so because of that, now is the time. I want to commit to this aspect of my life and personality and give myself and my words a chance and a platform. This is new and different and such a thrill, but it is a journey, and I invite you to take it with me. That may look differently for anyone who joins--keeping me accountable, encouraging me, quietly tuning in, providing feedback, sharing ideas and suggestions, or even being inspired to do your own thing, whatever it is that you've been sitting on. Come on in, the water is perfect.

It's official now, words on a page, existing in the rabbit hole of the internet. So I take that to mean, I'm on the hook now--this is not the last you'll see of me. I hope you'll stay tuned for more. Thanks for listening (and reading). Happy summer!