A Trip Down Memory Lane

2020: A YEAR WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER

I should have known 2020 was different when in January my husband and I flew over 4,000 miles to Paris and the Lourve was closed! Yes, the world-renowned Lourve! It doesn't seem possible, but at that very moment, I should have known to expect the unexpected, even the world shutting down!

This year taught me the importance of creating memorable moments and stories. During difficult times, it’s our memories and stories that light our path, bring peace to our current situations, and help us look forward to the future. Despite the pandemic, I was fortunate enough to escape to 1 continent, 3 countries, 2 states, and 11 cities. Here's my journey!

NEVER TURN DOWN A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

On my first day back to work after the Holidays, I was told by my manager we were going to Europe. I was ecstatic until I found out we had to depart two weeks later. At that moment, I decided to tap-in. *Alexia play “I don’t get tired” by Kevin Gates* In two weeks, I planned a nine-day three-country trip to London, Belgium, and Paris.

Travel Tip #1: When traveling to Europe for the first time, I travel to London first. Learn your way around the city and metro in English before traveling to another country where English is not the primary language.

We livvvveedddd in Europe. Early mornings and late nights, we packed our schedule with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From seeing the musical Hamilton live to the Eiffel tower, I fell in love with Europe so much that I tried to convince my husband to move. However, he wasn’t hearing it, but I’m still working on it. I’m so grateful we took this trip, but most importantly, that we savored every moment because a couple of weeks later, the world shut down! After this jaunt, I understood the quote “Travel makes you a storyteller.”

This trip taught me to be grateful for my 9-5. I remember sitting in my meeting, looking at the sunrise, thinking ‘I’m really presenting in another country.’

SADDLE UP, THIS RIDE ISN’T FOR EVERYONE

After sheltering in place for five months, we decided to take a road trip to Corpus Christi, TX. The highlight of this trip was the horses on the beach tour. The Caribbean is the only place that typically comes to mind when I think of horses on the beach, so I was elated when I found this tour. It was just what we needed, a moment to relax, reflect, and enjoy the beautiful world around us.

Travel Tip #2: If you don't want to travel by plane, a road trip to a city with an array of outdoor activities like hiking or the beach are great options.

The next day, we visited a different beach (Corpus Christi has an array of beaches), rode jet skis, and strolled down the boardwalk.

After visiting Corpus Christi, I appreciated road trips and weekend getaways. Before the pandemic, I only wanted to travel internationally but now take me anywhere, HONEY! Most importantly, it reminded me it’s not where you go, but the memories you create with the people you love.

BABY ONBOARD: LENNY’S FIRST VACATION

One thing about my family, we love vacationing together. Two weeks before traveling to my hometown in Tennessee, I talked my family into a weekend getaway to Destin, FL. It was for my mom's birthday and niece’s first vacation, so it was an easy sell. Lol

I have a beautiful niece named Lennon aka my favorite girl bka Lenny Boo. Yes, I know it's random (think of it as a commercial break). Plus, she was serving on the beach in the latest baby fashion.

Anywho, Destin was the island vibe we were craving. White sands, turquoise water, and cool breezes: this getaway was the perfect escape before the Fall. While in Destin, I was thankful for my family and Lenny boo for growing us closer. I really enjoy taking family trips and was excited to be able to share this moment with Lenny, even though she won't remember it. 🤦🏽‍♀️

Travel tip#3: To avoid the crowds and traffic, visit Miramar Beach instead of the Destin’s main beaches.

A MOTHER & DAUGTHER TAKEOVER

First off, if you haven’t read my blog about our five city tour to Colorado, read it after you finish this! Lol

I love a good takeover and this was our first trip since I got married in 2017, so it was overdue and special. Visiting five new cities was great, but I really enjoyed our quality time. The beauty of travel removes all stress and allows you to experience pure bliss from everyone on the trip.

My goal was to see my mom smile and laugh the entire time. I wanted her in awe by the activities she never experienced before and leave her with an indelible story she could share over and over. Have you ever noticed how people light up when they talk about their travel experiences? I find joy in creating those everlasting moments for people - she lights up every time she re-shares the stories from Colorado.

Travel Tip #4: To avoid getting snowed in, visit Colorado during the beginning of the snow seasons. For more tips, check out my last blog!

HOLIDAYS IN THE MOUNTAINS

My last escape was spent with my family in the mountains of Gatlinburg, TN. We arrived on Saturday afternoon to white snow and crisp cool air. Although we all had visited Gatlinburg before separately, this was our first time together, which made it special. I can’t believe I got to experience snow twice and take two vacations with Lenny Boo this year.

Walking the strip, riding the ski lifts, enjoying the snow, and playing the board games with my family was a perfect way to spend the holidays and retire 2020.

Travel Tip #5: Ignore the GPS if it takes you on back roads, and stay on the main road when driving in the snow. The GPS doesn’t factor in closed or icy roads.

2020 you taught me a lot. I traveled more than expected and created memories with the most important people in my life. I look forward to 2021, and I can’t wait to share those experiences with you!

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