Just knowing who these people were after a quick search online would not be enough. I knew I needed to develop a group of people who would be able to meet regularly and taste wine.

I was working hard and earning good wages at the Balsams, but something told me it may be time to leave Vermont. It was January; and while winter would last three more months, I wondered if it was wise to consider spending my time here. I figured Dad would have some good advice.

Before writing Dad, I was working things out in my own mind. While I was earning a good living and living rent free at the Balsams, I knew I was missing out on opportunities to learn about the wine business. Simply serving it to high-end clientele was not enough to satisfy the burning desire in my heart; which was that I would pass the exams the first time.

Since Vermont was my state of choice for my pilgrimage, I began to search there. One quick search and click of the mouse and there it was! The Vermont Wine School!

I immediately put in my notice at the Balsams the following day and explained to them fully why I needed to be in Burlington...immediately. My boss was frustrated, but understood. I had explained to him my goals before starting, and this would be a natural extension of this goal. I sent for some information by mail to be sent to the resort, and I would call the next day on my lunch break.

When I talked to Samantha that evening, I told her about my exciting success in finding Vermont Wine School in Burlington. While I had been there once before, I was excited to return. Each time I realized that my new renewed focus was driving my career rather than just assumptions, I felt blessed. Both Dad and Mom; and Samantha, could see where I was headed and they were excited as well.

There was no looking back!