The hum of the tires on the highway. The rhythm of the music weaving through the air. Just me, the Colonel (aka my sister) in the passenger seat, Sadie snoozing in the back, and on miles of open road stretched ahead. Yesterday and today have been those kinds of days where the drive itself becomes the experience… a moving meditation of sorts.

We’re now about 85% of the way through this cross-country trek, can you believe it? Five states in just two days! It still amazes me how quickly the scenery shifts, and how beautiful each stretch of this country is. Lush green trees have lined the roads much of the way, with bursts of wildflowers and rolling hills. I keep thinking: this is such a big, beautiful country, and I’m grateful to witness it this way, from behind the wheel, soaking it in mile by mile.

And beneath the beauty of the road, there’s a deeper journey unfolding. So many miles covered not just on the map, but in my life. This isn’t just a move; it’s a massive change. A fresh start. A new chapter. And not just for me, for Sadie too. She’s been my steady co-pilot through it all, her familiar presence grounding me as we head toward the unknown. And having my sister with me on this drive? That’s made all the difference. The laughter, the shared playlists, the quiet moments of reflection, I couldn’t imagine doing this without her by my side.

As the miles pass and the playlists roll on, I can’t help but reflect on how far I’ve come, not just geographically, but emotionally. This road has carried me through some of the hardest moments of my life. I wouldn’t be here without my tribe (my incredible friends and family) who have lifted me up, cheered me on, and carried me through when I didn’t think I could take another step. My gratitude for them runs deep.

When we arrived in Clinton, Mississippi, we gratefully grabbed a little extra rest, much needed! Bonus: I slipped out for a quick red light therapy session, a little solo time to recharge. Later, we wandered into town for dinner at 303 Jefferson, soaking in the rich history of this charming little place.

For now, it’s about absorbing the journey, not rushing the destination. Letting the music, the company, and the beauty of the road remind me how resilient life can be and how much hope the future holds.

We crossed three states again today Mississippi, through Alabama, and finally… Florida! My new home state. Pulling into Florida felt surreal. This is real now. The change I’ve imagined, planned, and worked toward is finally happening.

Tonight is our last night in a hotel. One more early start tomorrow morning, and we’ll arrive at my new home. Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of my life: a launch into the unknown. A future full of promise, new beginnings… and just maybe, somewhere along the way, I’ll find my future plus one.