I’m not quite sure how to start this. it’s been a while — and by a while, I mean a year.
Honestly, I’ve been putting off writing this post. I wanted to write something eloquent and touching, to summarize COVID and BLM and what it’s like to live through these times. But every time I started, I fell short. So I quit.
But I’ve realized I don’t have to write something meaningful and profound. I just have to write.
Life updates
I feel fortunate that this pandemic hasn’t been too hard on me. When lockdown happened, my parents were kind enough to let me move out of my tiny apartment and move into their house. I haven’t lost any friends or family. I spent most of the summer quarantining in Northern Michigan, which is the perfect place to quarantine because there’s basically no one there.
I feel bad admitting that a lot of positive things have happened to me in the past year. I finished graduate school. I got a job as a UX designer at Deloitte. I got a puppy (!) named Alfie. I fell in love with road-tripping, visiting seven national parks. And I found a place to live that I love! I now live in Austin, Texas.
My sweet puppy, Alfie
But, of course, it hasn’t been all roses. There have been weeks when I’ve doomscrolled endlessly, refreshing the New York Times’ home page an embarrassing amount of times. I’ve strengthened some friendships, but others have fallen by the wayside. Job-hunting during a pandemic was grueling — it took me six months to land a job after I graduated. And don’t even get me started on being single during a pandemic.
But all in all, I know how lucky I am. In the grand scheme of things, I can’t complain.
A year away from blogging has taught me that I really do miss it. I miss writing. I miss sharing book recommendations (you guys always have the best ones). I miss having a space that is all mine.
I’m not sure I’ll ever blog as regularly as I used to, but I still want to check in from time to time.
Which leads me to the question: How are you, really? What has this year been like for you? Are you feeling hopeful or worn out, or both?
Sending you love, wherever and however you are.
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If there’s anything as 2024 as this, it’s taken me a full month after the year concluded to finish this post. But I didn’t want to skip it for the first time in 17 years, as the past year was remarkable in so many ways.
2024 was wild and weird and wonderful. I was not overly present on this blog for many reasons, mainly because life has thrown so many work changes into our life that have catapulted us to next level of busy. (Don’t you hate people complaining they’re busy?)(So do I.)(But here’s the truth.)
2024 in travel
We still traveled a whole lot in 2024 even if my airline accounts didn’t show it. Just days after ushering in a new year, we flew to Charleston, S.C. for a military ceremony celebrating SVV’s former roommate taking command of a NOAA ship. Since my brother-in-law’s family lives there, we also got to spend some quality time with them.
When we got home, I caught a terrible case of pneumonia and recovered just in time to leave on our annual winter sabbatical, this time to Thailand with four days in Qatar on the front end. Due to our increasing focus on tourism marketing, we try to plan all of our trips in the winter when tourism is in a lull. That typically means, we vacation in January or February, then come back refreshed for a busy and full work year.
I have so many tips for planning a trip to Thailand, and hopefully one day soon I’ll have time to sit down and bang them all out. We were lucky to have government friends based in Bangkok, so we headquartered our trip from their apartment, then did some island-hopping, too.
After returning from Asia, our work travel ramped up. We’ve been on contract with the state for the past two years, and we’ve gotten to see a lot of Tennessee as a result. Much of our travel in 2024 was by car, and I’m definitely glad I upgraded my vehicle a couple years back!
Tennessee tourism work aside, Mom and I took the kids to Blue Ridge, Georgia for a long weekend over their Spring Break, then I flew to Bismarck to keynote a marketing meeting.
We went to Memphis a few times, in March, April and July, to visit my cousins and also found ourselves in Sweetwater for a mural project. And we can’t forget one of the biggest events of the year: We flew to Austin for the eclipse and to see our besties!
My other international trip for the year was with my mom to Paris in May to attend Roland-Garros, our second of the four tennis Grand Slam events and first overseas tourney. It rained on us nonstop for 10 days, but we had a blast—and bonus: We got to see Taylor while there (my fourth Eras show, but I digress!).
For SVV’s 50th birthday—and just because we like to spend time together—my family met up with my cousins in Fort Morgan, Alabama for a full week of beach fun. We’re usually 30A people, but the crowds and the fact that SVV and I fell in love with Dauphin Island a few years back drove us west along the coast, and it was a blast.
Tell me he looks 50!? No flippin’ way.
When we got back, we went to Murray, Kentucky for a weekend, the first of three trips we’d make in succession to our northern neighbor. We finished the summer with a week in South Carolina at my friend Kelly’s family’s home in Lake Keowee and the Smoky Mountains only days before the area was devastated by Hurricane Helene.
In the fall, I spoke at a pair of Tennessee conferences, TNHTA’s Governor’s Conference on Hospitality & Tourism in Chattanooga and Rural Tourism Conference in Union City, and we took my niece Charlotte and nephew Mac on their first trip to Dollywood—and to their first UT game on the same weekend. A good Florida beating is best experienced in person at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville if I do say so myself!
I was back up in Kentucky for a night in Louisville with my cousin’s daughter McKayla in November to see Taylor Swift (yes, again) up in Indy, then SVV and I returned a few weeks later for me to speak at the Kentucky Travel Industry Association’s annual conference in Covington.
In November, my sister and I also celebrated my mom’s 75th birthday with a mid-week getaway to Cloudland in Georgia. We spent the entire holiday season at home, a nice respite after a year spent on the road, but hardly a restful one as we were in full holiday mode with Christmas shoots and school picture day and Breakfast with Santa and so much more.
2024 in work
We are more embedded in the tourism world than ever, and I’m truly grateful to every editor, every tourism board and every government official who hires us for gigs. It’s some of the most fulfilling work we’ve ever done (not to mention, a whole lot of fun!).
Though in 2024, I wrote several stories for Washington Post, Southern Living, Marriott Bonvoy, Preferred Travel and various other outlets, I have scaled back on my freelance writing because, to be frank, the pay for traditional media these days is peanuts compared to when I started over 20 years ago. And as an almost 42-year-old businesswoman, the one thing I’m not going to do is backpedal—though that said, I still have editors I adore who I am willing to do almost anything for if they ask. You know who you are!
We’ve found a whole lot of joy doing photography contracts and content marketing for tourism boards. Several of those who we have worked with regularly include cities in our own region like Bell Buckle, and being able to help tell their story on a continuous basis has been priceless.
In continuing with Work I Never Thought I’d Do—I legit hated a stage and an audience just 15 years ago—I keynoted a couple meetings, spoke at three conferences and hosted two marketing workshops. What an honor to get to speak a session at the Tennessee’s and Kentucky’s governors conferences, as well as the rural tourism conference which was in my home state this year.
In 2025, I already have four conferences booked as a speaker (including one keynote)—two in February, one in June and one in July—and I hope that’s just the beginning.
2024 in photography
Well I’ve studied photography since college, I could have never predicted what the last five years have brought, and that’s more than 100 standalone shoots a year that have absolutely nothing to do with tourism. Family shoots, children portraits, heritage photography, volume photography, corporate headshots, Breakfast with Santa—I’ve learned and done it all.
This year, I also did the school photos for four different preschools, which was a whole other skill set we have learned (and are still mastering), but what a fun new challenge—and it added another 125 kids to my 2024 photo subjects.
2024 in blogging
Blogging has changed dramatically since I started this blog in 2007. In 2024, I favored updating some of my most popular posts regularly over new content. Whereas in the pioneering day of blogging, we would get a wild hair, bang out a post and push it live without a second thought, publishing a new blog post in 2024 (or now, 2025) takes days from the research and the writing to the photo editing and the coding.
And secondly, Google’s ever-changing algorithm has decimated the careers of bloggers and creators across the board. If you don’t understand how search engines are prioritizing AI content over actual fact-checked content that has been thoughtfully researched, written and compiled by an individual, my friend Amanda has a great primer on the topic of Google and AI killing blogs here.
That means the post your favorite bloggers are spending days fact checking and producing may be pushed to the second or third page or even further back if they are never seen. That doesn’t exactly incentivize a lot of us to compete anymore. That said, if you want to be a good steward of original content and support your favorite creators, hopscotch right over the Google AI results and click through to an actual post the next time you’re searching, will you?
The good news is that, affiliate links aside, we have always been ad-free, so we have never relied on Google to pay our bills. On the same token, since this site is free content and not necessarily monetized, it is not always prioritized as it may be were the tables turned.
This time last year, I stopped publishing my monthly highlights posts due to time constraints, but also because after dropping MailChimp when they made it unattainable for small businesses to keep up, I have yet to find a newsletter service that sends out my posts in full. That means when I do write a new post, I also have to write a newsletter, format it and push it out to the thousands of people who subscribe. All of that is just a lot when blogging is not my main revenue stream, but more something I love and can’t always prioritize.
As always, I love posting my travels here and I will continue to as time allows. I have so many trips like Australia, Thailand, Iceland, and Hawaii I spent months planning and perfecting the itinerary that I truly want to share. When that will happen? Your guess is as good as mine.
2024 in entrepreneurship
Two years ago, we bought our latest commercial investment. We initially tried out a co-working space, but in Tullahoma, it simply wasn’t financially feasible for us to continue operating it as such.
So last summer, we regrouped and rebranded, and at the beginning of September, opened our CoSalon which were full in a matter of weeks. After owning the building for 18 months, it was so nice seeing the space brim with stylists and entrepreneurs. An added bonus is I now have a place to go for my hair, facials and Botox all under one roof!
2024 in public art
As the economy continues to waffle, several federal agencies have taken hits in the past years when it comes to funding, and the arts is no different. For our public art nonprofit, many of our projects exist entirely due to grant funding, and there were simply not as much funding available last year. As such, we declined several opportunities and only completed two mural projects: in Sweetwater and Palmer, the first funded by the city and the second by the state arts commission.
“Allegory of Hope” by Britt Flood Palmer, Tennessee
We also had one of our favorite artists, Whitney Herrington, come down and paint a mural inside CoSalon, which was a treat!
We’ve got some fun projects up our sleeves for 2025 though, so stay tuned! Many grants we were awarded for this fiscal year will be implemented this spring, plus we applied for operational funding for the first time, which would give us many opportunities to gift art to rural communities that need some love and color.
2024 at home
I still love the Cedar House as much as the day we bought it six years ago, even more so now. While we didn’t complete any major projects this year, we’ve slowly been tweaking away and making this house a home, including hanging more original art, some of which is our own.
I love adding to the framework of this beautiful piece of property, and I hope SVV lets me stay here many, many years! The Victorian is the only home I lived in for longer than 18 months as an adult, but I have absolutely no itch to change our situation or to build out a new space as I have in the past, just to continue to improve the one in which we live.
Our animals are doing great: Ella (our pup) is 14.5, the first of our Cat Distribution System rewards Whiskey and Rye are 5, and our baby girl Molly is 2.5. They keep us busy and constantly cleaning up fluids in our home (ha), but we wouldn’t have it any other way.
2024: The Greatest Hits
Days traveled: 115
Countries visited: 5, including 2 new ones
States visited: 11
Miles put on my Expedition: 30,000
Tennessee counties covered: 63
Business class flights taken: 4
Taylor Swift shows attended: 2, making that 4 total for the Eras tour
Books read/listened to: 52
Photos snapped: 30,000+
As always, thanks so much for being here! If you’re looking for travel inspiration, I’ve got 17 years’ worth of posts you can sift through by location here.
A gap year, as the name suggests, is a year-long break students often take between high school and college or between undergraduate and postgraduate studies. It provides them with an opportunity to step away from academics and explore various facets of life.
The concept isn’t new, but its popularity has surged in recent times. Young adults now more than ever are choosing to travel, volunteer, or work during this period, seeking both adventure and personal growth. The world becomes their classroom, where every experience is a lesson.
Benefits of Taking a Gap Year
Taking a gap year can profoundly impact personal development. This period allows for intense self-discovery, where individuals often learn more about their passions, strengths, and aspirations outside the confines of structured education.
Another undeniable advantage is the broader world perspective one gains. Platforms like Essaypro best essay writing service emphasize the importance of global awareness in modern education, and nothing expands horizons like traveling and interacting with diverse cultures. It fosters empathy, understanding, and a more rounded worldview.
Lastly, the array of new skills and experiences acquired is vast. From language proficiency to survival skills or even culinary abilities, the learning curve during a gap year is steep and varied.
Planning Your Gap Year
Beginning a gap year journey starts with setting clear objectives and goals. Whether you aim to volunteer, learn a new language, or simply explore, defining these aspirations ensures a purposeful and rewarding trip. It acts as a roadmap, guiding the direction and activities you pursue.
Budgeting and finance management are crucial. Establishing a realistic budget helps in avoiding overspending and ensures that the adventure doesn’t prematurely end due to financial constraints. It’s vital to account for unexpected expenses, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
Lastly, researching potential destinations is key. Understand the cultural nuances, check for travel advisories, and be informed about local customs. This proactive approach not only keeps you safe but also enriches the overall travel experience.
Types of Gap Year Travels
One of the most enriching types of gap year travels is volunteering abroad. Engaging in such endeavors allows individuals to make tangible differences in communities, offering services in areas like education, health, or conservation. Not only does this benefit the host community, but volunteers also gain unique insights and a deeper understanding of global issues.
Cultural immersion programs are another avenue to explore. These programs often include homestays, language classes, and cultural workshops. Participants absorb the nuances of local customs, traditions, and lifestyles, promoting global understanding and fostering personal growth.
For the adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts, adventure and nature exploration provide the thrill of discovery. From trekking in the Himalayas to scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, these expeditions offer unmatched encounters with the natural world, pushing boundaries and expanding horizons.
Safety Precautions and Preparations
An essential first step before embarking on any travel is ensuring that you’re covered with adequate health and travel insurance. These policies act as safety nets, covering unexpected medical expenses or trip interruptions, giving travelers peace of mind in unfamiliar territories.
Another significant consideration is understanding cultural sensitivities and etiquettes of the destinations. By respecting local customs and behaviors, travelers not only prevent potential misunderstandings but also enrich their cultural experiences, forging genuine connections with locals.
Lastly, always arm yourself with a list of emergency contacts, such as the local embassy or consulate, and try to gain as much local knowledge as possible. This preparation can be crucial when faced with unforeseen situations, allowing travelers to navigate challenges confidently and safely.
Embarking on a gap year adventure doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s entirely possible to travel on a budget by adopting savvy saving strategies, such as setting a daily spending limit, opting for hostel accommodations, or using local transportation instead of taxis. Pre-trip planning and sticking to a set budget can greatly stretch the travel dollar.
Another avenue to explore is work-travel programs. These arrangements allow travelers to earn as they journey, covering expenses while gaining unique work experiences. This can range from teaching English in a foreign country to working on organic farms.
Lastly, being a student or a young traveler often comes with hidden perks. Many organizations, hostels, and tour operators offer discounts and benefits explicitly tailored for this demographic. Always carry a valid student ID and inquire about potential deals to maximize these benefits.
Maximizing Learning on the Road
Traveling isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s a unique opportunity for education beyond the classroom. Attending local workshops or classes can enrich your understanding of a place. Whether it’s a traditional dance class in Bali or a pottery workshop in Morocco, these hands-on experiences offer deep cultural insights while teaching new skills.
Interacting directly with locals is another invaluable learning method. Conversations at local markets, participating in community events, or just chatting with a fellow diner can lead to a genuine understanding of people’s daily lives, traditions, and perspectives.
Lastly, documenting your journey plays a significant role in consolidating your experiences. Keeping a journal or starting a blog not only captures memories but also encourages reflection. Through writing, you process what you’ve seen, learned, and felt, making the journey an ongoing lesson even after you’ve returned home.
Returning Home: Transitioning Back
Coming home after a gap year is a journey in itself, marked by personal evolution. Reflecting on the experiences, one can identify significant growth and change. Many find that using the best assignment writing services helps in consolidating thoughts, experiences, and learnings during this transition.
The richness of the gap year can also be harnessed for future endeavors. Whether it’s university applications, job interviews, or personal projects, the unique experiences can set you apart and provide a fresh perspective.
Reintegrating into academic or work life might seem daunting, but it’s essential to remember that this period of exploration has enhanced your worldview. Bringing this enriched perspective can make the return more rewarding and productive.
Conclusion
A gap year, filled with exploration and discovery, possesses a transformative power that reshapes one’s perspective on life. Through various adventures, challenges, and new experiences, individuals often emerge with a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Encouraging others to embark on this journey can spread the benefits further. Everyone should consider this enriching experience at least once in their lives, as it paves the way for personal growth and broadened horizons.
