Well, that didn’t go as planned…

If you caught my try-ons, you heard me mention that I was in Atlanta this week at the apparel show, buying for late summer and fall. If you missed it, you can watch the replay HERE.

Well, the version of me who filmed that try-on last week was full of hope and excitement. I usually come back from buying trips energized and ready to dive into the next season.

This time? Not so much…

After a five-hour flight delay (in 30-minute increments—ugh), I arrived Monday night already feeling off. I chalked it up to pollen and general exhaustion, but by the time I got to my hotel, I knew something wasn’t right. A quick doctor’s visit confirmed it: strep. Again. (Yep—just like Thanksgiving weekend when I missed Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.)

I started antibiotics right away, but I knew I wouldn’t make it to my Tuesday appointments—and I certainly didn’t want to risk spreading germs. I held out hope I’d be up for Wednesday, but strep had other plans. I never left the hotel room (except to grab my meds), and once again, it knocked me flat.

But here’s the thing—thanks to the kindest people, I was still taken care of. The hotel staff was incredible—sending up hot water, honey, fresh ginger, and lemon alongside all the room service meals I lived on for three days. My people back home checked in constantly, and my amazing business coach, Em, who was also at the show, stepped up to help reschedule my key appointments and even scouted new lines on my behalf.

In the end, it was a crash course in letting go and adapting. I couldn’t change the situation, but I could give myself grace, rest, and make a plan for what comes next. And now? I’ve got a full calendar of virtual appointments and a clear path forward to keep bringing you the best for the upcoming seasons.

(I also managed to binge several Netflix shows and documentaries, so if you need a recommendation for something to watch, just let me know. lol.)

So if you’re wondering—yes, the clothes will still be amazing (just with a side of Zoom). And while this trip didn’t go how I planned, it reminded me (again) that slowing down doesn’t mean stopping. Sometimes, it just means taking a different route—and trusting that you’ll still get where you’re going.

Thanks for being here through the twists, turns, and strep throat detours. I’ll be back in the shop soon—hopefully fully upright and with plenty of cute things in tow.