20 Years…
Life has been pretty nonstop lately, and I didn’t have as much time as I would have liked to reflect on this milestone—but there’s no way I could let today pass without acknowledging it.
Twenty years ago, on this very day, a few amazing friends loaded up their cars (and a small U-Haul trailer) and helped me move to Nashville. I’d lived on my own for a few years before that, but this was my first time truly starting over in a new state. Looking back now, I know it was one of the best decisions I ever made.
These past two decades have been filled with so many moments—some incredible, some heartbreaking. I met my best friend here. I’ve built friendships that have shaped my life in ways I never expected. I became an uncle. I spent over a decade working in the music industry before making a leap into hospitality, where I’ve now spent almost 10 years. It’s wild to think how much has changed, how much I’ve grown, and how different my life looks from when I first got here. But I wouldn’t trade any of it.
Of course, there have been losses too—people I once held close who chose a different path, family members I’ve had to say goodbye to… Grandparents, Aunt Jan, Aunt Audie, Uncle David, my brother. Those losses never get easier, but having my small but mighty circle around me has made all the difference.
Through it all, I’m grateful. Grateful for the people who have been part of this journey, for the memories made, and for the ones still to come. If I’ve forgotten anything (which I probably have), feel free to remind me—and if you have a memory from along the way, I’d love for you to share it in the comments.
Here’s to 20 years. ♥️
