One thing is for sure, life never happens in a straight line — besides, it would be pretty boring if it did!

After you "went," I would occasionally say a silent prayer for protection and for the hope that you would find whatever it was you were looking for; a change of pace; a change of scenery. Sometimes we need a "blank canvas," and the only way to get that is a change of venue; patching up the old ends up feeling like we just painted white over what already was and just a few sunny/rainy days would be enough to allow that old image to bleed through.

I guess I should know, having picked up my entire life and moved clear across the USA, some 18 years ago.

Sounds like you have landed well. And that warms my heart.
xo