New Turf

"Dear Mommy,"

For those of you that know me, the last few years have been full of major ups and downs. It has been quite the journey to get me where I am today. A year ago, I wouldn't have believed you if you told me I would be sitting in a cafe on the streets in Tel Aviv getting ready to start a new chapter in my life. At this point, one year ago, I either would have been preparing for another PE class or getting ready to get up to the mountains for a day of snowboarding...amazing how fast changes can be made.

For those of you that know me, also know that putting my thoughts on paper has never been my expertise. Sharing my emotions and opening up has never been an easy thing for me. But within the last couple of years, I have found writing to be incredibly therapeutic. 7th grade me is cringing. Creative writing was something I swore I couldn't do. My 7th/8th grade English teacher, along with my high school English teacher wouldn't believe it either.

For those of you that don't know me, I was a goofy, athletic, fun yet reserved kid, who expressed herself solely on the field or court. My emotions were expressed through my physical activity...some would say, that hasn't totally changed.

For those of you that don't know me, my mom passed away from lung cancer 3 years ago December. I really struggled. My entire world, every comfort, every freedom, every choice I had made, suddenly didn't seem so clear. Just about 1.5 years ago, my sisters and best friend made it clear that I needed to find someone to talk to. I was recommended by a very good friend to go and speak with this therapist and see if it was a good fit. Well, 8 months later, I was in a place of control and peace I had never experienced before.

And now, 4 plus years after my initial venture in Colorado living, introspection galore, and a fresh page, I have never felt more ready to begin something new than right now.

I decided on a drive just a month or ago that I wanted to start a blog honoring my mom's memory and legacy. Her strength was building connections, relationships, and education. She loved to teach. She loved to teach about her passions and share that with the world around her. Israel was one of her many passions and loves in this life. I am not entirely sure the direction I want yet for this blog, but more than anything, a space to express myself, a platform to connect with my mom in some shape or form, and a place for those looking for something more to receive.

I hope I can give you all something to learn from, grow with, and enhance your life or day in some small way. Ideas or topics that you want some perspective on would be greatly appreciated.

"our dream, and they are made out of real things like a shoebox of photographs with sepia tone loving. love is the answer for most of the questions in my heart. like why are we here? and where do we go? and how come it's so hard? it's not always easy and sometimes life can be deceiving. Ill tell you one thing it's always better when were together." -Jack Johnson

with love from TLV,

Jordie

#newadventures #lookingforward #bestlifeahead