My Practically Perfect Life

How many times in life have you had a dream to travel somewhere, but decided that work, or kids, or saving money at that time was more important? I know I have many many times. After marrying my husband in 2011 we both knew that we loved to travel and wanted to see as many places in the world as we could. In 2014, when I was 31, I finally got my passport! We had a wedding in Sao Paulo, Brazil to attend. So after so many years of dreaming I was able to travel outside of the United States! The 13 hour flight from Miami to Brazil seemed a bit scary, since the furthest I had ever flown was to Las Vegas, but it was great! The country was beautiful and I fell in love! I fell in love with travel. The excitement, the history and culture of anywhere outside of my bubble. I decided then and there that I would see the world. Eventually.

Eventually is a killer word. I can say I am a professional procrastinator. I will put things off until the last minute all the time. Not proud of it, but it happens. And putting off traveling became a regular thing. My husband and I did take a few trips. To Las Vegas, some races in Kentucky, New Orleans and a few other places. My best friend and I took a few trips as well, which is such a great experience travelling with a friend instead of family. In 2015 I got a full time job. Before which I was working part time and could make my own schedule. But for anyone that is familiar with the oil field, you know that the oil field is a roller coaster. You can’t be sure from month to month how life will be, and when there are problems and downfalls, it effects your family. Working to help my family financially was my privilege and I am so glad I had the opportunity that I did to help. But that put a damper on my dreams of traveling. In 2018 we decided that me staying home would be a better fit for our family. So I quit my job and was able to focus more on my children and their ever growing busy schedules. But this also was my chance!! My chance to take advantage of my mother’s retirement and availability to babysit!! So I started making plans. And I know what you are thinking, you quit your job and decided to spend money on traveling? Well…yes! And you know why? Because why the hell not?!

I knew that I had to figure out a way to travel and not break the bank. So this was my first challenge. And when I say challenge, I mean that in a good way. I am the type of person to get excited and brag about how cheap I bought something! So why not use this excitement and ability for making great deals and put it towards traveling. My year of travel, or becoming a professional vacationer as my friends like to say, began. And by taking my trips and learning things about traveling is what inspired me to write this blog. So I figured I would tell you about my journeys! I hope you enjoy!!

In 2018 I travelled 22,267 miles! Vacation miles anyway. I flew to Las Vegas, to Cozumel twice and Whistler BC. I drove to New Orleans, New Mexico, Colorado, Shreveport, Louisiana and Destin, Florida. There were also smaller trips in between. During these trips I stayed at hotels/ all inclusive resorts, homes and rented homes. I flew three different airlines and to two different countries! I did my best to write down my experiences so I can share with you! I want everyone to be able to experience traveling, and if I can help by giving a few pointers then I will!  Since I am new to this blog thing I’ve had to research the best ways to help people stay interested in reading, and it says to keep it short! So even though that will be a challenge it is my plan. So I will work on my posts about places I’ve stayed, ways I’ve gotten there and how and what to pack. I’m always up for suggestions on what to talk about so feel free to give your opinion or recommendations.

Keep on Keepin’ on!!

-Nicole