Experiencing Fall For The First Time At 34
How my move to the midwest has changed my worldview in less than a month
I have always been, and will always be, Southern California born and raised. Growing up, I spent my days enjoying mild weather spread across all four seasons. Sure, it could get a little cold and windy in the winter, and we’d see some rain in the spring, but honestly, each season felt almost the same with just mild variations. Nothing drastic, nothing that forced me to change my routine. I always thought that’s how life just was—steady, predictable.
As a traveler, I’ve explored plenty of countries with real seasons and what some might call adverse weather conditions—Canada, Ireland, Scotland, and the UK, to name a few. But I was always the casual visitor. I was the tourist, breezing through with my camera, itinerary, and return ticket in hand, never really having to face the elements long enough to let them shape my everyday life.
Well, now I can say that I’m Southern California born and raised, but currently residing in Minnesota. I moved to the Midwest just in time to see summer fade away and watch these beautiful trees turn from their bright greens into shades of red, gold, and everything in between. Every time I take a drive, I feel like I’m traveling through a painting.
In what felt like the blink of an eye, summer disappeared, and fall arrived in full force. And here’s the kicker: they’re already talking about when the first snow will fall. People around here say it could happen before Thanksgiving, which is wild to me. This is the first time in my life I’m really experiencing fall, and come winter, it’ll be my first time dealing with ice, snow, and negative temperatures as more than just a passing inconvenience on vacation.
Preparation, Adaptation, Flexibility: Ready or Not, Change Is Coming
Living in Minnesota has been a shift—not just in climate, but in mindset. I’m used to sunny skies and the consistency of Southern California. But now I find myself watching the weather with a certain level of anticipation, knowing that the seasons here actually mean something. It’s a reminder of how much travel and change can shape who we are. When you move to a new place, especially one with such dramatic seasonal changes, you can’t help but adapt. You learn to embrace what’s coming, whether you’re ready or not.
In each solo trip I’ve taken, I’ve learned you can only prepare so much. Adaptation and flexibility are really the keys to having the best experiences. They allow you to be resilient, even when the unexpected happens.
When traveling, I’ve experienced things I thought I was prepared for—but they still caught me off guard.
Like that time in Ireland when, despite packing heavy coats, rain boots, and sweaters, I arrived to unseasonably sunny weather. A cab driver jokingly told me I should enjoy it, since it had rained the two weeks before I got there. A week later, I learned what it was like to be perpetually damp thanks to Scotland’s sideways rain and frigid winds.
Or the time I discovered I get seasick—while the cruise ship was still docked! Thankfully, I was able to buy medication, but I had to adjust to taking it at night so the drowsiness would help me sleep and I’d be symptom-free during the day.
Each situation was unexpected, despite my best efforts to prepare. But with a little flexibility and the right mindset, I was able to enjoy each trip, even with the small tweaks I had to make.
Living in Minnesota feels like a more permanent shift, one that’s altering how I live day-to-day. Learning to check the forecast 2–3 times a day, paying attention to tornado sirens, and realizing the true value of a good snow scraper—these are all things California me never had to worry about. But now, I’m adapting, learning new skills, and growing.
And that’s the beauty of doing something new—whether it’s temporary or permanent.
The Magic of the Unknown and the Growth That Follows
When I choose a destination, it’s usually because there’s something specific I want to explore. Sometimes it’s a place I’ve never been before, like Ireland, or somewhere I’ve visited many times, like Canada. Regardless of whether it’s familiar or new, each journey opens up a new world of the unknown.
Travel is not just about the places you go but the people you meet and the experiences you collect along the way. That’s where the magic happens. Each trip is a unique adventure that can never be replicated. The growth, the memories, and the stories all stem from stepping into the unknown.
As a travel advisor, I often work with women who are nervous about stepping out of their comfort zones—whether it’s for their first solo trip or their next big adventure.
I get it.
I’ve been there, too.
There’s something scary about taking that first step. You browse travel websites, read the blogs, daydream about it—yet the leap seems daunting. Just like my move. For years, I talked about leaving California, frustrated by the routine and craving something new. And when I finally took the leap and announced I was moving in just three weeks, none of my friends were surprised. They saw it coming before I did.
I encourage my clients to focus on what they want from their journey. Let that be the strength they need to dive into the unknown. The fear is always there, but the reward is waiting just beyond it. And trust me, when they return, they are so thankful they took that trip. They’ve embraced the change, and they come back with stories, memories, and a newfound sense of empowerment.
Ready to Embrace Your Own Change?
If you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone—whether it’s for your first solo trip, a girls’ getaway, or a major life change—I’m here to help. As someone who’s navigated both travel and life transitions, I understand the challenges and rewards that come with embracing the unfamiliar. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer journey, I’ll be by your side to ensure you get the most out of the experience.
Change is inevitable, but growth is optional. Choose to grow—whether it’s by traveling solo or simply embracing the seasons of life. Who knows? You might just fall in love with the unexpected.