I can’t believe 2021 is coming to an end. This has been an amazing year for me. One of my best. I wanted to recap my year and what I’ve learned about myself and the places I've been.

First thing first, shoutout to therapy! That was one of the best decisions I made for myself a couple years ago. I don’t think I would have been able to do this nomad life without going to therapy, and addressing and processing a lot of things that happened to me and things I bottled up that stemmed from my childhood. Although some of my trauma responses prepared me for this moment in my life. Things like hyper independence, being somewhat of a loner, big picture planner (details are not as important to me lol) the list goes on.

What I’ve learned about myself since starting this journey

A couple weeks ago my cousin reached out for the usual check in and asked me this question: “What lessons have you learned about yourself with all the traveling you’ve been doing?” I would like to answer that here.

I’ve learned so much about myself. Some of the things I already knew but got confirmation on:

• I’m extremely adaptable and I can live anywhere

• I enjoy my own company, I’m not lonely

• I am the MAIN character in my life

• I’ll always find something to do no matter the place

• I really enjoy visiting new places to explore and seeing what the place has to offer

• People are silently rooting for me

• You get to see who in your life cares and goes beyond the occasional like/view on IG.

• Family and friends are extremely important to me

• Some people are FULL of shit

• Not sure if I want to come back to live in Maryland (only reason I’ll come back is if I get promoted. I’ve invested a lot into my career)

• I need consistency, clear and frequent communication

• I need more than the bear minimum

• Listen to my body. (I was able to address an issue early and had surgery to feel better)

• I go where I’m wanted, loved, safe and happy

• Plans can change, so adjust

• The universe is on my side. Everything has been aligned in my favor

I also don’t feel sad or down about not being able to leave the country (I’ll give more details when I’m ready). There’s so much shit to do here in the US. But when I’m able to, it's OVER for everyone. International Tosin gonna be hella annoying.

I finally feel like I’m living a fulfilling life. The mental shackles are gone. I don’t feel trapped anymore. As my cousin said, I’m on a stoic path right now.

2021 City Recap:

I can’t believe it’s been a year since I decided to take this plunge. Time is going by so fast. A year later and I’m happy about my decision. This is something I’ve always wanted to do. I’m having fun auditioning cities. I’m in no rush to pick a place to settle down in. This year I had the pleasure of living in the following cities: Silver Spring, San Juan, New Orléans, Houston and San Francisco. I also had the opportunity to visit: Culebra, Miami, Selma, Dallas, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Philly and I’m closing out my year in Chicago. This is the first year I’ve done this level of traveling. I’ve enjoyed every minute of this journey.

San Juan

San Juan has a special place in my heart. I miss the sun, beach, people and the food

New Orleans

My favorite Airbnb so far. It felt like home. The city itself is too touristy and can’t catch a break from hurricanes. Had to move early due to a hurricane.

Houston

Texas is a vibe. I can see myself living here minus the whole Handmaid's Tale government.

San Francisco

Hella expensive definitely not a place I would move to but I’m happy to experience living in California. I’ve always wanted to live in Cali, San Diego to be exact. But the last time I visited I started having panic attacks. When I mapped out the cities San Francisco was not on my list. I guess it was a subconscious decision to avoid San Diego.

This has been an amazing year. I met so many good people, made new friends and got to experience new things and cities. I’m ready for what 2022 has in store for me. In the meantime, I’m off to Chicago because ballin’ and food lol. Then it’s back to San Francisco for a couple months. Thank you for following along.

Stay tuned for 2022 posts on:

• How to get the best travel deals

• Remote working

• Picking the best Airbnb

• Best travel credit card

• Portland

• Fibroids

• Seattle and much more