What an exciting and productive 2021! I’ve visited 9 National Parks, seen moose, swam in hot springs, hiked mountains and glaciers, and have shaken that languishing feeling of 2020. As we wrap-up 2021, here are some of the highlights and plans for 2022!
Accomplishments:
I’ve driven 9,982 miles over 112 hours along this circuitous journey
I’ve spent 16 nights camping in roof-top tent of the Subaru from National Parks, to gas stations, to a parking lot on the Pacific Coast Highway
I’ve received a promotion to a Manager where I am responsible for 11 direct reports, 120 Suppliers, and $80M in annual spend
I’ve successfully completed 7 MBA Classes – with a 4.0 GPA
I’ve visited 9 National Parks, where I especially loved Bryce and Rocky Mountain NP
I’ve spent $1,400 in gasoline, filling up over 41 times
I’ve lived in 7 states from Indiana, to Colorado, to California, to Arizona and more!
I’ve celebrated my 27th birthday while camping at Arches National Park
I’ve eaten out at least 145 times spending around $2,907– (yikes!)
I’ve written 20 articles now to 182 regular Subscribers and a total of 7,506 views on this blog Professionally Wandering
Reflections:
I lived this dream of working full-time, studying part-time as a MBA student, and embracing being a life-long traveler! This has always been a dream of mine to visit the National Parks out west, and this became even more important after languishing with the pandemic emotions in 2020. I am so blessed and fortune to have the flexibility financially and professionally to embrace this nomadic lifestyle. Hopefully, this experience can be an example for others to seize their dreams.
Favorites:
Besides the personal victory of living this dream, there have been numerous unique memories along the way over this 6 month journey:
The mountains and moose in Rocky Mountains NP in CO.
The beauty of the Might 5 of Utah, especially hiking Queen’s Gambit Trail at Bryce, Angels Landing & Narrows at Zion.
Chinatown and Hamilton Broadway performances in San Fran.
Yosemite.
Front-Row at American’s Got Talent finale.
Reflections on my personal accomplishments professionally and academically.
What’s Next:
Currently, I’m enjoying Thanksgiving and Christmas relaxing back in Indiana with family. As much as I love travel and roaming, it’s nice to have family time during the holidays. In early 2022, I plan on making Phoenix my home for 3+ months as I’ve found a strong circle of friends to explore the area, to visit National Parks, and to explore local culture.
Thank you for the support and encouragement throughout the year by following along on this journey and these reflections. On the road to success, the rule is always to look ahead. In 2022, may you reach your destination and may your journey be wonderful. Happy Wandering and Happy New Year!
I've heard some good things about Phoenix. It's a dry heat ;)