Plan that Vacation Already! Chop Chop! Vamonos!

Recently, a group of girl friends and I took an amazing trip to the Bahamas.  What made it so amazing is the opportunity to take a private plane, stay for free in a vacation home with panoramic views located far away from the touristy, gimmicky areas, but not so far away we were isolated.  We had our own boat and lovely driver who proved to be a blessing and wonderful addition to our group.  We were able to explore the islands, the waters, the restaurants (& much more) at our pace without huge crowds, lines, sign up sheets or interference.  While taking pictures, there was no line for the perfect angle and every shot lacked the clutter of other tourists.  If you've ever patiently waited your turn to take a picture to memorialize your vacation, then you know what I'm talking about.  You just can't put a price on breaking off a piece of the world just for you and your crew.  We had the Great Abacos Islands at our fingertips. 

​For us, it was a golden opportunity that came to light after the stars aligned in just the right format.  This was not your every day girl's trip.  If I told you how inexpensive this trip was, you wouldn't believe me, because we traveled in such luxury and were treated like royalty.  We danced, we sang, we explored, we experienced beautiful things and beautiful sights, we ate new foods, we blew conch at sunset (a Bahamian tradition), we fished, we sipped coffee on the decks while trying to guess who was in those billion dollar yachts passing through, we school girl giggled and we (not so lady like) sprayed spit laughing so hard (more than once) until we cried.  We also decided to have some friendly relay competition that left 2 of us icing down various body parts.  What do we care?  It made for a funny story.  Most of all we relaxed, unwound, decompressed and just breathed.  It's the most relaxed I've been since pre holiday season 2016.  Total zen reset! 

That zen like feel has stayed with me as we've settled back into the every day hustle.  I'm a better problem solver, a better wife, a better General Manager and I believe a better person.  Yeah.  Pretty dramatic statement.  But, the people I used to have zero patience for?  Well, I've gained a new inner calm that has allowed me to see them with fresh perspective.  As a result, I've identified a better way of dealing with those people.  I not only feel better about my interactions with them, but I'm getting results in those relationships.   I've also gained clarity in relationships I may be putting too much effort into...time to ease off. 

​This trip was a reminder how important it is to carve some time out for vacations.  No more excuses, no more "I'm too busy".  Taking time to unplug and recharge my batteries is just as important as anything else in my life.  Just look at these actual shots from this trip and you tell me...wouldn't these views strip away your stress, too?! 

​PS These are some of my actual vacation photos!  BLISS!