Connection- Everyone & Everything ~ Feb 2025

Happy first Monday in February!

It is absolute madness that we are already here in February’s newsletter. I think being away from “home” inevitably makes you think more about “home” and wow, have I been missing my sense of community. And if you’re receiving this email, then that means I’m missing you. I hope that this email has found you comfy, cozy and in a peaceful place! I heard Wilmington, NC got snow recently?! Say what?!? In Thailand it has been 95 degrees- I'm sending a bit of that warmth to you.

I have written about it a few times in these emails, but when I first started this newsletter it was being sent to my husband (boyfriend at the time) and like 6 family members, ha! Now it goes to a lot more people and some who maybe I have only met once or twice. The last thing I want to do is write like I have it all together, or make it seem that way. I certainly do not. What I do hope to share are some of my thoughts and experiences on what I’m seeing, doing and cultivating- all in an effort to make life seem more relatable & connect us all a bit better. Being away from what my life has looked like the last 4 years has caused so many thoughts and emotions to flow. I think this is what getting out of your comfort zone does. It lovingly forces you to reevaluate, problem solve, and become flexible. I’ve been learning so much about all of these things thus far in Thailand.

When I was putting thought into what February’s topic would be, the word “connection” jumped out at me. It’s my word for the year so I’m not surprised- I’m seeing and feeling connection everywhere these days But really, what a gift it is to connect with ourselves, friends, romantic partners, strangers on the street or in other countries, to divine powers, to nature, to our children, coworkers and pets. Connection to any and all of those things helps to make us feel less alone. It is the bridge between isolation and joyous, unconditional love.

I was journaling the other morning while in a province here in Thailand called Phetchabun, and I wrote at the top, “connection through language”. My husband, Arden, and I are volunteering helping to teach English in the local schools and it has been incredibly humbling and eye-opening. We’ve been borrowing clothes that are a bit more professional looking, but I’ve looked (& felt) absolutely ridiculous and physically uncomfortable. Clothes that are 3 sizes too big, my sneakers instead of nice shoes because no one wears a size 11 here (lol), mismatched items and so on. The school has limited running water, no toilet paper or soap, no desks or chairs for the younger students. Yet, what I have been shown and reminded of is that these children do. not. care. It doesn't matter. A smile, high-five, hug or wave doesn't require fancy clothes. A listening ear or trying to better understand someone doesn't require the "perfect" setting. True, genuine connection from a place of authenticity doesn’t know the ego. Sometimes all it takes is an opportunity to get a little out of our comfort zones, be the person who makes the first move, and lead with an open heart and an open mind.

Teaching yoga is a huuge way I connect with people and practicing yoga is a massive way I connect with myself- I'm missing my routines of doing those two things since we've been long-term traveling. I've been waiting for the right time to offer a virtual class but I think it's here. I'm going to share more about what I'm thinking below, but I would LOVE your feedback as to what time works best (I'll also share a poll on Instagram with the same choices). I am currently 12 hours ahead of my Wilmington, NC friends, but I would love to offer a class at a time most convenient for you all! Feel free to email me, text me or message me on Instagram if you have any thoughts or suggestions. Missing you all and hoping that February is filled with an abundance of deeper connection.