Some people remember their loved ones by looking at old photographs. Others will reminisce over their favorite stories. But when my grandmother, Beverly, passed away last year at one of the most pivotal times in my life, it held extra significance for me, and I wanted to do something special to remember her.

In one year as a business owner, I have learned a lot of important lessons. More lessons than I learned in 7 years of college, grad school and 14 years working in higher education and leadership combined.

Learn how to travel with carry-on luggage to just about anywhere.

Coffee. Chocolate. Music. Art. Dance. Colombia is a hidden gem of a country that’s underrated and off the beaten path.

It has so much to offer, yet travelers usually skip it to visit other more popular destinations.

Not you, though.

Let’s break down what 9 days in Colombia looks like on my group trip.

The world is big and full of people just like you if you know where to find them.

Five years ago today, I got a divorce.

I didn’t even realize this until someone recently asked me how long ago it was, and I looked up the actual day in court records.

Holy shit. Five whole years ago today, I started my life over. I rebuilt it from the ground up, and I did it the hard way. And I did it quietly.

But today I feel compelled to talk about it because I never really have. Today I feel overcome with emotion and feel the need to share because there’s probably someone out there who needs to hear this.

Most of you know I much prefer off the beaten path experiences to the typical tourist spots. I don’t pick places based on popularity or trends. I choose sights, sounds, and locations that draw me in and light me up.

We ventured out of the desert, passing by packs of camels, driving once again through the dunes until we reached the main road again. We were onward to our last stop, Fes.

After spending a few amazing days in Marrakech, I was extremely excited to wake up early and hit the road for the most anticipated part of our trip: the Sahara Desert road trip.

Morocco has always been one of those mysterious, exotic places on my bucket list, but only recently did it really pop up on my radar. I was deciding where to go to scout a new group trip this past February when I found out Morocco was about to reopen for tourism. It felt like a sign, and I am all about acting on signs, so I booked a trip with my friend Rachel for three weeks later.

Traveling to places like Colombia and Morocco wouldn’t have even crossed my radar five years ago. They seemed dangerous and a bit sketchy, if I am being perfectly honest.

It has been a couple weeks since I have been back from Turkey and I’m already dreaming of my next adventure. My heart is full from all the amazing things we accomplished.