“Today I am  2,890.4 miles stronger!” is what I shouted as we arrived in Corona Del Mar just east of Newport Beach, California on February 20th, 2016. We had driven for four long days with my dog and cat across country with two cars filled with my belongings all the way to my new home in Corona Del Mar, California. We were exhausted when we arrived but so excited to be out of the car and finally able to start unpacking and begin nesting in my new home. I slept on the floor for the first two nights and then purchased an air mattress from Wal-Mart. Two of my friends from home came on the journey with me, for which I am so grateful for because it was long and very daunting at times. But we did it! Within two weeks I was able to get hired at two different upscale restaurants (one ocean front) to supplement my short term income. Two weeks later I got my first corporate job in the OC.

Don’t let me fool you, it wasn’t easy. We must of stopped over a dozen times and drove through snow, rain and high wind conditions to get here. I experienced on flat tire on my second day of work and was still working with the relator to get my condo rented out back home. Paying a mortgage and rent was taxing. Luckily I had the support of my mother and two sisters who helped me eventually get it rented. One of the first purchases I made was at Lowe’s. I got a lemon, lime and an orange tree and a small patio wicker chair and table set. Something I new I could put on my new balcony and smell every morning for inspiration.  I am still working my way to the top but with the knowledge and new found strength I earned from my travels. At the end of the day I sit here knowing I am not perfect but am on my way to being stronger than I was. I see and hear of so many friends and co-workers that are not happy in their lives and I sit here and think or maybe hope to inspire you to follow your dream as I did if you are not happy. Because I have now found my happy and I believe you can find yours too. The journey was amazing and certainly a once in a life time opportunity that I made come to life because I was willing to take a risk. I realized not too long ago that life is too short not to be happy. So today I hope I inspired you to “Find Your Happy.”