This is my favorite time of year. We find ourselves at family gatherings and holiday getaways to the winter wonderlands of the north. Along with all this hustle and bustle of holiday fever, the whimsical snowflakes of December flurry in bringing with them my birthday as well. So, with that, the winds of change are here and father time turns a new page in the adventurous chapters of my life. Forty nine years ago today my journey began. As a Freelance Travel Writer & Blogger it’s always fun to share tips with my followers on all the shortcuts in travel. Today I share what’s inspired me on this magical journey. Buckle up, it’s been quite a ride. And, the lessons I’ve learned, I’m sure more than a few of you can relate to. If not, I hope they help to inspire your own journey, while being your truest self! The world is waiting and there’s so much we still must see…….this journey has just begun!

Lesson # 1 On My Journey

A smile is understood in almost every language.

Lesson # 2 On My Journey

Love comes in all shapes and sizes and from the most unexpected places, at the perfect time.

Lesson # 3 On My Journey

When it feels like your maker took a machete to your life and cleared it all out, let go of the past and embrace the new adventures in store for you.

Lesson # 4 On My Journey

The best gifts I ever got were hand written notes because they came from the heart.

Lesson # 5 On My Journey

A child’s smile or a kiss from your pet are more precious than gold.

Lesson # 6 On My Journey

Mark Twain’s Quote Says It ALL!

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things can not be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

Mark Twain, The Innocents Abroad/Roughing It

Lesson # 7 On My Journey

The older I get, the more I look for pet friendly accommodations…….I hate leaving my “kids” at home!

Lesson # 8 On My Journey

When navigating your own course through this world, adjust your sails to move in the direction of your truest self…….I promise, the waters will be calmer & any storm you encounter will be worth fighting through.

Lesson # 9 On My Journey

There will always be someone in this world who has more than you and there will always be someone who has less than you. Be inspired not envious of those with more & be kind and helpful not brash and cruel to those with less…….you may meet them both again……. when you’re on their side of the table.

Lesson # 10 On My Journey

When the moments arise where you’re faced with challenges your parents faced in their lifetime, too…….you won’t handle it “better than them”……. like you thought you would…….you’ll ask them for advice.

Lesson # 11 On My Journey

You will make a difference in the world and the trajectory of your life. How you treat others and the world around you & also how you let others treat you will determine what that difference is.

Lesson # 12 On My Journey

In those moments you feel alone, stop agonizing over it. It’s actually a gift. Most days you’ll spend trying to entertain others needs. These moments are for you to explore the world and all the things that make your soul happy. Take advantage of it!

Lesson # 13 On My Journey

We were given a gift, being born in America. A gift many people gave the ultimate sacrifice for. To truly live in harmony in this melting pot we have to erase the imaginary lines that divide us and learn tolerance. Tolerance isn’t accepting someone’s beliefs, it’s listening and hearing where they come from. Our Veterans and their families deserve, at the very least, for us to do this.

Lesson # 14 On My Journey

The most expensive and valuable commodity is time.

Lesson # 15 On My Journey

It doesn’t matter what language you speak, everyone, everywhere, appreciates kindness and respect.

Lesson # 16 On My Journey

Global Warming Is REAL!

Lesson # 17 On My Journey

Getting outside and seeing anything in nature, I have found, is the BEST medicine!

Lesson # 18 On My Journey

There really is such a thing as a coconut crab & they really do have teeth in their claw to crack the coconuts!

Lesson # 19 On My Journey

The best friends I’ve made in life were once only strangers to me.

Lesson # 20 On My Journey

There is a happily ever after!

Thank you, everyone, for another amazing year on this journey!

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30,