'wanderer, there is no path, the path is made by walking. we're all wanderers in life.' -spanish poet, antonio machado
Showing posts with label challenge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label challenge. Show all posts

Sunday, November 21, 2010

transitions aplenty


Yes, well, 'transition' seems to be the word of the year for me. In June I left Prague and moved back to Minneapolis to prepare for the wedding, while continuing to work as a freelance strategist for Bohemian Hostels. My gig was extended and I was hired to manage multiple projects for the group, including the official grand opening party for our investors and partners (which went very, very well). I apartment-hunted and job-searched in the midst of it all (while Tom wrote his 160-page research proposal and kicked booty in his oral exam)...and then moved into our new place one week before the wedding. We were blessed with the most beautiful weather on our big day (9 October) and we had SO much fun surrounded by all of our closest family and friends. Then, we took a quick honeymoon break to Galena, Illinois, where we had a wonderful time tasting wine at our friends' vineyard (Galena Cellars) and staying at our amazing Aunt and Uncle's cosy cabin. Not long after that I jumped on a plane and travelled back to Prague for the opening festivities, where I was (void of the new hubby) for two weeks as I wrapped up some work for them. In the meantime, I accepted a position with OLSONdenali. I returned to cold, wet (snowy and rainy) Minneapolis 1.5 weeks ago and tomorrow I will embark on a new journey, when I start my new gig. Phew.

I haven't had much time to reflect on any of these massive life changes, but I am grateful for each and every one of them. We have already been tested in so many ways, and I know there is a reason for this. As my mother so wisely stated during her speech at our wedding, if we can make it through 1.5 years of long distance, we can make it through anything. So, transition seems to be the word that defines our relationship thus far. I can honestly say I am looking forward to a bit of rest and relaxation and thankful the winter is upon us and will hopefully provide some much-needed nesting for us newlyweds. However, as I embark on this very large career transition in my life I am feeling a little anxiety...anxiety because change is never easy, but it is most often a good thing. I am excited for so many reasons. I am ready to learn, be challenged and experience a new work environment. Along with this excitement comes a little bit of sadness, though, as I say a more solid 'goodbye' to Prague, the group there and my experience...something I had been seeking out for such a large part of my life. It's done. But it's okay. Because I'll have more challenges, more excitement and more adventure with each new opportunity that comes my way. When I hung my pack up today (see picture) I surprised myself by shedding a few tears.

Thank you to all of you who followed my journey...though there are so many stories I have yet to tell on this blog, in a book, or in person. I'd love to share them with you someday. A very MASSIVE thank you to my amazing hubby, whose patience and support made it possible...along with my incredibly generous and loving parents. And, of course, all of my peeps in Prague and friends in Minneapolis too. What an experience. As you all know very well, I can go on and on and on about it, so I will stop myself now. But stay tuned for more stories and adventures...whether old or new. Who knows...perhaps a book will even make its way to shelves someday. Only time will tell.

Usmevy a slunce,

MEgan

Monday, January 5, 2009

move often, carrying your home with you...

The other day I impulsively bought a book (overpriced, of course) at Starbucks entitled The Traveler. In the tale, there exists a young boy who comes to the realization that his life isn’t quite perfect, so he decides to pack up his time and travel until he finds something perfect to spend it on. As the story goes, "He walked and he walked, and slept and slept with his suitcase heavy by his side which made him glad. Because he could say to himself: my time is safe in my suitcase, I can never go wrong - soon I'll find something perfect to spend it all on."

Much like the boy in this story, I am packing up my time...but I think I've found near-perfection in an overseas opportunity with a group of urban-chic, swank, boutique hostels in Prague, CZE and will be leaving on a jet plane in Thursday (the 8th of January) ready as I can be to face a world of unknowns and a plethora of new, exciting adventures. As most of you know, I have been crossing my fingers for an overseas gig for quite some time...so as you can imagine I am jumping for joy and riding on a gigantic happy cloud. Check it out at http://www.czech-inn.com/ and let me know if you're planning a trip to the most beautiful city in the world so we can meet up over a pint.

Today is my last day in the states (for a while, at least). Many thanks to you all for the support, challenges and giggles...it’s been quite a ride and I’ve learned gobs and gobs of invaluable personal and professional lessons. I will - of course - pack each and every one of you up in my suitcase and bring you with me wherever I go, because I've become the person I am today as a result of the hundreds of thousands of interactions I've had over the years (which includes time spent with you!).

So, thank you, REALLY! I'll be at megans.harrod@gmail.com from here on out. Don't be a stranger.

May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
May the rains fall soft upon your fields,and until we meet again...

Me

(e) megans.harrod@gmail.com

(note on 16.2.2009 - removed temporary address here because I am no longer homeless).