Coddiwomple. To travel in a purposeful manner towards a vague destination.

A year ago today, Evan and I sat across from each other in a hotel room laughing and daydreaming about what this year might look like.

We knew we wanted to practice service above self, we knew we wanted to volunteer and do good, and we knew we wanted to let go of inhibitions and follow wherever life lead. I think it’s safe to say: mission accomplished.

To say this year has exceeded all expectations is an understatement in every way. I had some of my highest highs and lowest lows as I lived through this year. I met or got to know some of the most important people in my life. And I’m so beyond grateful that I got to do it with my best friend by my side.

We are grateful to every friend, family member, Rotarian, and host who was a part of our journey. We learned so much from each of you and it was a joy sharing our experiences.

As we look towards the future, we see Cake4Kids and baking for them. We see Loveland-Mountain View Rotary and the work I’ll get to continue with them. We see RYLA and the impact it continues to have on our lives every day. We see the results of selfless action and sheer curiosity and how those continue to manifest.

Tonight, we’re ending our service year volunteering at a local conference. The Keynote speaker of the evening reminded us to be present. Present in the moment, in our bodies, in our joy. She told us to thank ourselves for allowing our minds and spirits to be in the moment. And as I reflected on the year and the lessons I’ve learned and the space I end tonight in, I’m so proud of how present I can be. In my reflections, in my now, and in the future.

Though this is our final blog post and the end of the year, keep an eye out for occasional potential updates of the beauty that we’ve grown from our blind adventures.