So this is life... 2 months of homelessness

It is hard to believe that two months ago I was having panic attacks.  I was dreading having to quit my career of 9 years and leave behind all that my adult life had known.  It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do and the fear nearly broke me.

Two days later I was on a plane heading to France with 2 bags, a bookbag, my husband, and a stomach full of worry. 

The second I landed in Paris all of my fears vanished and I can say that this has honestly been the best two months of my life.  It is true what they say-  the hardest part is facing your fears.  That following your heart will never be regretted.  It is true that things are always hardest before the best things come.

Since embarking out of the work world my adventure has led me to the most beautiful town in France where I got a plethora of physical training and incredible partners who were willing to work 1-on-1 for my improvement.  I had the pleasure of experiencing Ramadan in an Islamic country during a time where the west is so fearful of Muslims- I got to see and feel the love everywhere, all the while training with the best that Africa had to offer.  Then I flew to Spain where I embarked on the most physically challenging two weeks of my life- banging heads with past and future Olympians, the best in the world - leaving camp performing better than when I arrived and with a new level of motivation and appreciation for judo.  

So here I sit, two months into my adventure, in the birthplace of Judo in the lovely Tokyo.  I am surrounded by a culturally rich environment, clean city, and more judokas than imaginable.  It is literally a dream come true.

Some things that I didn't expect was the challenge of learning how to fill my days.  A few weeks in, I felt guilty for not "doing more" - so I was fervently looking online for "work from home work" and signing up for tons of classes.  But I woke up feeling stressed and then was losing sleep, and suddenly I realized there was no need.
I have since stepped back and instead am filling my time with whatever I find fulfilling.

To my surprise this has meant morning yoga practice, reading ALOT, exploring the top rated places to see in each city we visit (never thought I'd enjoy a soccer stadium...but it was surreal), day dreaming about potential future jobs/paths, writing, contacting loved ones at home, learning a language (slowly), watching movies before bed, playing MAGIC (thanks hasbro), joking with the hubby, learning to cook quick/easy/cheap, taking an online class, and of course lots of training!  Not having the demand of working on my plate it's been incredible remembering what it is I actually enjoy doing.  Many are the same things I loved as a kid...but just forgot about as 'life' took over.

When is the last time you acted like a kid- and just spent the day filled with activities that made you smile? No "must-do" lists...'Obligations" ignored...but just spending the day doing what makes you happy in life?
If you have not done so recently - DO IT.  
You only live once.  Fill your days with things that make YOU happiest.  
Spend time learning what those things are. 
Spend time remembering what they are.

Two months in and here are my big takeaways:

• Follow your gut
• If its scary, its likely worth the risk.
• Fill your day as if you were a child- with things you love.  Relearn what that is.
• When you travel, be sure to explore- get lost and do research about what makes that land culturally special so you get the most out of it.
• Cultures may change...but people everywhere are willing to help and share kindness.
• Be thankful to those who help your dreams happen.  They are gifts.

I can't wait to see what these next 4 months have in store for us!
What do they have in store for you?  Hopefully some scary and happiness filled days....