Since I have begun yet another chapter in my life, I have decided to start a blog for a few reasons. First and foremost, I would like to have an easily accessible way to share my stories with all my friends at the same time. I have also decided to use this as a way to archive my life journey.

Why the title? Back in 2006 when I was in my last year of graduate school, I discovered one of my classmates that was in several of my classes had this amazing bracelet. It was silver and had five tiles on it that had the words grace, balance, courage, truth, and wisdom on them. I asked where she had gotten it and for graduation, she surprised me with my own as a present. Ever since that day, I have never gone a day without wearing that bracelet unless I had a special occasion. It has been with me through the past two years, and those have been the years that I have faced the most difficult life challenges. The bracelet’s still here, and I’ve managed to get through everything.

On that note, as I was still pondering a name for this blog, I received a text from my mom when I turned my phone back on when I landed in Phoenix. My mom doesn’t text very often, so that, in combination with the contents, made it ever more clear. It said,

“Been thinking of you all day. I am so proud of your courage and independence. Go far and be happy. Call when you get home to Arizona. Love, Mom.”

I would like to thank all of my friends and family for giving me the support and courage I needed to make the decision to move and accept my new position. I know it was hard on so many, especially with the end result being a move so far away from most of you.

In conclusion, I’d like to welcome all readers. Feel free to post comments, contact me, and subscribe to my blog via email or RSS.