Gratitude.

That is the overwhelming emotion that arises anytime I think about my journey, or really my adventure, as the owner of FIT4MOM Montgomery County that spans over the past nine and a half years.

I never imagined that I’d be lucky enough to have a job, a career, a passion that allowed me to combine family with friendship and community with strength. How in the world am I fortunate enough to work on a business, and in a business, that not only allowed me to foster relationships with other moms but also focus on my own children at the very same time. To work at my own time and pace and put my family’s needs first always. To build up other moms and support them during one of the most precious times. Owning a FIT4MOM franchise really is a dream job for a mom. And for that opportunity, I am forever grateful for Lisa Druxman and her dream that started it all. Her dream that became a reality has been life changing for so many moms, and I’m just so honored to say I’m one of them.

I am beyond grateful for every single one of you who has taken a class with me at any point (like ever!) since I became an instructor 11+ years ago. Each one of you has inspired my dream that has lead me where I am now, and even if you don’t realize, you helped shape me as an instructor, as a business owner and as a mom. Every instructor and playgroup captain who has been part of my #dreamteam, thank you. Thank you for trusting me, for believing in me, and for teaching incredible classes. You helped create the dream of what I strived to provide every mom in MOCO. You ALL still inspire me every time I see you in class, and you know I LOVE seeing your smiling face in class!

I’ve been fortunate enough to build a network with incredibly inspiring boss moms locally and across the country. FIT4MOM is full of franchisees and employees at home office that are simply AMAZING. The strength, creativity, knowledge and genuine care that these humans radiate is immeasurable and contagious. Their ripples go wider than they realize, and I’m so grateful to have met some of my very best friends through events that brought us all together.

This community, the evolution of my small business, and my own journey through motherhood wouldn’t be the same without any one of you. You have all been part of my story. And for that, grateful doesn’t even seem grand enough a word. And I am forever thankful for each of you!

For those of you who ask what’s next? Well, I need to figure that out. I believe strongly that doors open when they’re meant to, so I’ll be on the lookout for the right door (or window) of opportunity to open from here. And until then, you will still see me teaching 360 and coaching run club. Please come join me! FIT4MOM Montgomery County is in the best of hands, and I cannot WAIT to see how this community thrives with Jessie as the new owner!

As I always say, it’s not a goodbye. Never. It’s a seeya later, and a big ole hug through words! Whether in real life or via social media, please don’t be a stranger! And please know just how special you are and just how grateful I am that you’re part of my story.