Big changes are on the horizon - again! We are prepping for another cross-country move as part of our ongoing Navy life, but now as part of our nomadic lifestyle! While packing up our lives (yet again) can be a bit overwhelming, we're excited for the new adventures ahead. Each move brings us closer to understanding what this lifestyle really means and how to make it work for us, our business, and our four-legged family. So, the next chapter of our nomadic journey is now officially in motion.
Living nomadically has been eye-opening in so many ways. We are learning to let go of things that no longer serve us - both physically and emotionally. When your home travels with you, you really have to prioritize what matters most. For us, that has been our time together (especially following a 8.5 month long deployment), new experiences, meaningful connections, and the freedom to explore at our own pace.
One of the biggest lessons we are learning is the importance of adaptability. Plans change. Weather shifts. GPS reroutes. But the beauty of a nomadic life is in its flexibility. We are starting to get comfortable with the unknown, trusting that each new place will have something valuable to offer - even if it's just a gorgeous sunrise or a peaceful walk on the beach with the dogs.
Speaking of the dogs - they are doing great! In fact, we think they are living their best lives!! In just these past few months, since we sold the house in February, they've become seasoned travelers. We've found beach-friendly shops and restaurants, stopped at numerous rest stops along the way - from Virginia to Florida then up to North Carolina and the past few months back in Virginia. Watching them sniff out new spots has reminded me to slow down and enjoy the little things. They've adjusted quickly to this lifestyle - better than I expected to be honest. They are thriving in the variety and taking in every new spot in stride - with plenty of naps along the way!
Now, traveling with pets does take a bit more planning, but it's so worth it. We've found pet-friendly stays, met up with some puppy friends, and even made some new pup-loving friends along the way so far in our travels. Their comfort is always a priority - and honestly, they keep me grounded. After Rocky's month long bout of emergency medical surgeries, I've taken things even further in making sure they are safe and comfortable for our upcoming cross-country trip. It's great to know where pet friendly hotels, Airbnbs, and rest stops are along the way...but I also have numbers and addresses for 24-hour emergency vet clinics at every over night stop and even others in between. You just never know and Rocky has taught me to be prepared.
As for JC Designs - we are proud to say that we keep rolling no matter where we are! We've worked hard to set up systems that support remote fulfillment, and it's paid off. Orders are processed and shipped within 24 hours, so you can expect the same reliability whether we are in Virginia, California or anywhere in between. You may begin to notice a Florida return address on all of our packages and that is because Florida is our home of residence - so we decided to just keep that as the one constance with our business and personal life too. But don't be alarmed if you see the Florida address but another state as the USPS stamped shipped from. Regardless...we continue to design, print, and ship from the U.S.A!
Again, we want to reassure you that we are still OPEN for business throughout the move. Nothing will change on your end - same quality, same service, and same dedication. And yes, we always offer FREE shipping - no codes, no minimums, just one less thing for you to worry about.
This move marks another milestone in our journey - with the Navy, our personal life, and with JC Designs. We are excited to keep creating, traveling, and sharing our lives (and the pups) with you. We'll continue updating our blog and social media with behind-the-scenes peeks, travel tips, and of course, plenty of dog content. Be sure to check out our Instagram accounts - jcpetdesigns and boopspawsandwags.
To everyone who has support our small business - whether by placing an order, sharing our posts, or simply cheering us on - thank you! Your encouragement means the world to us. You've help me make this dream a reality, and I'm so gratefully to carry your support with us from coast to coast.
Here's to new place, wagging tails, and finding magic in motion. We will see you (and ship to you) from the road!
Jillann, Oz, and Rocky - and James (daddy) too!!