Spring Forward

Hi Everyone!

Happy spring. It’s a season for beauty, joy, and of course, love. I’m ready for it.

Lots of new, exciting opportunities lay ahead and though I can’t share anything yet, I thought it’d be fun to share a little bit of what I can: a conversation with my younger self. As I was working through some decisions this month, I thought about what I’d say to my younger self—to inspire her and lift her up. Thank you to my amazing friend, Teresa, for the inspiration.

Hi Erica,

I know you’re trying to keep your eyes open in homeroom today. It’s Monday, and you’re tired. You’ve worked weddings all weekend with mom, Rachell, and our wonderful wedding staff at the JVE. Know that your work ethic, kindness, and attention to detail will help you succeed.

You know how you can’t wait to get up early and be a part of the magical transformation every Saturday and Sunday and watch those beautiful couples get married? There’s a reason: you believe in love.

I know you haven’t fallen in love yet. You haven’t even had your first date. But I know you dream of love—of incredible love with a wonderful boy. Don’t worry. You have plenty of time. Be picky. Be smart. Be you.

I know sometimes you feel plain and simple, but you are beautiful inside and out.

You’ll meet an incredible, kind, and handsome man and when the timing’s right, you two will start dating. And yes, he reminds you of Gilbert Blythe—our first book boyfriend.

That incredible heart feels so much. Keep writing it all down. Your words are powerful and will give others hope one day. Never forget who you are.

You’re almost an adult. Your 18th birthday is a few months away. Happy early birthday! Right now, you’re focused on becoming an elementary school teacher, but those novels still draw you in—your favorite escape. There’s a reason. Yes, you’ll teach—though maybe not at the level you are thinking about now—and inspire hundreds of students. They light up when you enter the classroom. Your zest, your creativity, and your humor create packed classes.

Keep reading, keep writing, and yes, do edit your friends’ essays. All that extra effort will come in handy one day. Because guess what? We’re a published author. That’s right—we wrote a book (quite a few actually), and our first full length novel has been published. People love your book, and it’s just the start. That’s right, there are many more to come.

We even got to meet readers—real readers! Can you imagine? I know you’re jumping up and down, dancing and smiling. I’m right there with you. We’re doing it kiddo.

Always trust your instincts.

I told our forty-one-year old self that same thing this week. I’ve been deliberating over a choice for three months now. But I can’t shake that voice in my head—that voice that’s so loud and clear, reminding me that like the season’s changing so, too, must we. Spring is here, marked by beautiful bird song, fresh flowers, and new life all around. This spring I’m planting a new seed. I’m springing forward (along with the time change hehe) and tending to my dreams—to our dreams. I can’t wait to tell you all about it!

Be brave.

Be fearless.

 Be you.

I love you.