Ciao, West Virginia!

Picture this: I traded the lively hum of Chicago’s North Shore for the whispering hills of West Virginia. It’s a question I hear often—why leave behind the energy of the city for a place so different, so quiet? The answer is simple: this is where my heart led me. Until you’ve wandered West Virginia’s winding roads and shared stories with its locals, it’s hard to explain the magic here. In truth, it’s not just about what you find—it’s what you leave behind. The city’s noise, relentless traffic, and endless debates have faded into the background, replaced by something far more peaceful. I don’t miss them one bit.

Of course, leaving isn’t easy. Uprooting your life cracks open even the sturdiest foundations, and the logistics of moving cross-country are enough to wear anyone down. But I kept my eyes on the horizon—on the promise of new beginnings, creative space, and the adventure that comes with embracing the unknown.

I am currently working on finding my new teaching venues, and I look forward to sharing my work with everyone.

Be gentle with yourselves, remain protective of your time, and get out and enjoy nature.

Michele