Inspired by Enda: Travel, Celiac, and Living Without Fear

There is No Time Like the Present

As this year comes to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting not just on the usual highs and lows but on how quickly life can change. If the past few years have taught me anything—especially living through COVID—it’s that there truly is no time like the present. Don’t wait to see the people you love. Don’t wait to explore new places. Don’t wait for the “perfect time” to go after what you’ve been dreaming of. For me, that realization took on a new and very personal meaning this year, especially as someone navigating life and travel with celiac disease. Living gluten-free can make you second-guess trips and new experiences, but I’ve learned that with a little preparation and courage, you don’t have to miss out on the life you want to live.

An Amazing Woman

This year, I lost an aunt. She was someone really special. It is so hard to even describe her. My aunt was someone I greatly admired from the time I was little. She was intelligent, confident, and did not let fear get in the way of her dreams. She dressed how she wanted, and said what she believed. There was no way you could meet her and not get drawn in. Sometimes she may have even said the opposite of what she believed just to have a good discussion. She didn't argue or get angry; she just truly wanted to see what others believed and their point of view. She was a traveler. She went wherever she thought sounded interesting. She traveled reasonably. She didn't stay at expensive hotels. She stayed with friends or family.

Pursuing Dreams

She pursued her dreams...all of them. Sometimes they were in totally different areas. If something intrigued her, she learned as much as she could about it. She was who she wanted to be and did not let others' opinions of her affect her. To me, she was magical. When she passed away this year, I promised myself that I would be more like her. All the things I admired about her, I would have the courage to try myself.

A Gift

This has been a wonderful gift, one that my aunt gave me. Like my aunt, I have always loved to travel. When I was diagnosed with Celiac nine years ago, that became more difficult. Where would I eat, and what if I got sick? So I began traveling less and worrying more.

Ireland

I have friends and family in Ireland and hadn't been there in, well, too long. I decided that would be first on my list. I needed to get back to Ireland. I went this summer and spent time with my friends. We all met as teenagers, and I had the most wonderful time catching up with all of them. I embraced the fact that the entire trip didn't need to be planned out. Which made the trip all that much more wonderful. I didn't let my worry about eating gluten-free ruin my trip. I went to the grocery store and ate at places that I felt were safe. It was amazing!

Gluten Free Life & Travels

Shortly after my aunt passed away, I started my social media accounts and website. I had been thinking about it, but kept waiting for the perfect time. What if I had typos and various other what-ifs? She inspired me to jump in. So, in May, I began my new endeavor. I couldn't be happier. I have met some wonderful people in the gluten-free community. I thoroughly enjoy Gluten Free Life & Travels. All of this joy was inspired by my dear Aunt Enda. Living like this is so liberating. So, thank you, Aunt End, for teaching me to embrace who I am and not allowing fear to slow me down.

Try Something new in 2023

My hope for all of you in 2023....go out and try something new that you have been thinking about. Don't be afraid. Be like my Aunt Enda, embrace life, and live it to the fullest. Have no regrets!