Day 1: Friday 12/6 (Dayton-Ft. Lauderdale)
As I’m preparing to board this flight out of Dayton International to sunny Ft. Lauderdale with my wonderful husband on this fabulous 10 day “Birthday Baecation” that he’s planned, I realize just how truly blessed I am. Not so much for the vacation, but for all the many blessings that God has placed before me.
The road has not been easy, and there have been many obstacles, trials, and failures along the way; but in just 5 days I will have made it to 45. A place where I’m no longer 40 and just five years from the BIG 50, that many of us dread. However, in a way, I am eagerly looking forward to it. A time when we should no longer let the mistakes of our past define us or hold us back, but be prepared to live without regret, fully embracing who we are as a woman and making no apologies for it. A time when you hold people accountable for their actions and no longer care what others think because the only opinion that seems to matter anymore is your own.
Day 2: Saturday 12/7 (Ft. Lauderdale- Set Sail)
As I step out of the shower to prepare for yet another early morning on our journey, I catch a glimpse of my husband as he’s moving about and I instantly get butterflies in my stomach like a schoolgirl with a crush. Aside from how handsome he looks, I think that despite the ups and downs we’ve had over the past 23 years, how honored I am to have a spouse who truly loves me beyond my flaws and imperfections. Someone who supports my dreams no matter how extreme they can seem and works hard to provide for his family. A man who can have me laughing so hard my sides hurt but can also hold me up when I’m falling apart. But most importantly, a God-fearing man with whom I can completely be myself; be it good, bad, or indifferent. A man that I’m proud to call my husband and who I thank God for.
Day 3: Sunday 12/8 (Coco Key)
Sitting here on the balcony at 4:30 am covered by darkness, I find myself unable to sleep and reflecting on myself as a mother. Three kids each one so different from the next, yet I don’t love any one of them more than the other. I know that each one requires a different version of me at all times, so much so, that in the run of a day I have gone from referee to confidant, to stylist all within a matter of minutes. And, although it was and can still be chaotic and tiresome, it is those moments and tasks that I now realize have made and continue to make my life so much more rewarding. It is those things that have helped build such close bonds with my children, bonds that I am beyond grateful for, and would never dream of changing. It is through these three relationships that I’ve truly learned the meaning of unconditional love and selflessness. It is also these three blessings that I am most thankful for.
I know that there is no such thing as a perfect mom because I have failed more than once; but knowing that my kids have never had to wonder if they were a priority, loved, or were going to have their needs met, makes me a pretty damn good mom & my husband a great dad.
Day 4: Monday 12/9 (Grand Turks)
Yesterday, Coco Key Bahamas was sooo much fun! The sun was shining, I got some really great stuff on the island which I absolutely can’t wait to wear. But, did I mention the delicious drinks that we had flowing from all directions and the fact that my tan is definitely off to a good start, what an amazing way to spend the day!
Today, we tackle Grand Turks and with this bunch, I can’t wait to see what we get into!
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Grand Turks was an adventure, to say the least! We ventured out on the island in two separate golf carts, guys in one and ladies in the other in search of the Historic Lighthouse only to get caught in a rainstorm and have our golf cart break down. But that didn’t stop us, one phone call to the rental company and in just a few short minutes we were back in business and off to find that lighthouse. Not realizing exactly how far the lighthouse was from the port where the ship docked, I honestly thought we were lost but don’t tell the others, lol.
After at least an hour or so of driving (sometimes on the wrong side of the road), almost getting in an accident or two, a few cows, and what seemed like thousands of stray dogs everywhere; the infamous lighthouse appears out of nowhere and we all breathed a sigh of relief that we were finally almost there. Upon reaching the lighthouse, we were all taken aback by the history it had to offer and the amazing ocean view. It was like being out on a balcony
Who would have thought that the trip back to port, would be absolutely hilarious! I’m talking laugh out loud, grab your sides funny!
To make matters worse, we decided to race back in the golf carts and we ladies were all over the place, we ended up turning the wrong way, down the wrong street, and did a u-turn without even looking. Now, who does that! Needless to say, the guys just slowed down and looked at us in total disbelief, laughing as we tried to catch up and pass them. In the end, we all made it back safely together.
Day 5: Tuesday 12/10 (At Sea)
Upon waking this morning I realize for the first time in a long time, I’m free to simply be…no schedule to keep, no worries, able to completely live in this moment, able to completely love in this moment all uninterrupted. What more could I possibly want in this moment?
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Without much planned today, we simply just lounged around and relaxed. The weather did not disappoint, the drinks & food were delicious and plentiful, and the company was even better as we continued our journey to the destination where I’ll get to spend my 45th birthday…Can you say EXCITED!
Now off to bed in anticipation for what tomorrow will bring.
45 & Loving It! 12/11 (Aruba)
WELL HELLO, Aruba! The sun is shining bright and as I lay here thinking wow…“You dear are 45 today,” the phone rings, and the invitation for mimosas & breakfast definitely sounds like a great idea. I mean, what better way to start your birthday off than with food & drinks before you hit the beaches of Aruba? Yep, it was definitely worth it, breakfast was delicious, the mimosas divine but the conversation and laughs that the ladies & I had…PRICELESS! Now off to explore Aruba and all that it has to offer.
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Today was AWESOME! Although the group decided to split up my hubby definitely set out to make sure my day was special and I have to admit we had the most amazing time exploring the island by ATV, taking in some of the beautiful sites and historic places Aruba laid at our feet. After stopping for drinks on the beach and a few photos to commemorate me turning 45, we decided to head back to the ship and change for dinner out on the town with one of the couples we were vacationing with. Needless to say, my birthday was epic and the time spent enjoying the company of my husband was very much needed and appreciated. It made me realize how often we allow life to simply get in the way of the things and people that are most important because we figure that they’ll always be there, but tomorrow isn’t promised.
