So this year, it was necessary, for our family trip, to visit a place that would be entirely outside of the United States. I wanted to expose my kids to a location outside of their “norms,” where people do not speak nor sound like them, where blacks embrace their culture, have solidarity, acknowledge each other with words like “hello,” “respect,” and “wagwan” (what’s going on?). The location of choice was Negril, Jamaica!

For starters, flying within the United States can be pretty stressful, especially when going through TSA (super stressful!). Now imagine leaving and returning to the U.S.

Covid has brought many changes, and the travel sector is no exception. Ensuring that passports are in good standing is imperative. Mothers, ensure you have a bag you can easily access and carry everyone’s passport (if your family is anything like mine) since you must show them multiple times until boarding time, both ways.

Upon landing in Montego Bay, we took a shuttle to Negril, an hour and a half drive by private shuttle. While planning our trip, we realized that there were many pieces to this and ensured to have this process done correctly; this needed to be perfectly designed for my family since this was their first trip outside of the country.

Some fun activities we did were: Ziplining, ATV, boating, horseback riding in the ocean, kayaking. We visited Rick’s Cafe [http://www.rickscafejamaica.com], the 7 Mile Beach, Margarita Ville, and more!

One can not visit Jamaica and miss out on the street foods experience!

Let’s not forget about the nightlife! Jamaicans have a unique way of showing tourists a good time, and dancing is no exception! These beautiful people embrace their culture and worry-free attitude at all times. They understand the true meaning of hospitality; one often hears them say words like: “no worries,” “no problem.”

Jamaica did not disappoint and truly is paradise! The air was fresh; the weather was nothing less than perfect. When it rained, it felt warm; it was beautiful and simply serene.

We sometimes find ourselves in circumstances where people attempt to label us. Is this plainly because they can’t deal with the fact that they may hurt from their insecurities? With no need to judge or point fingers, we all handle what life throws at us differently. Some of us lash out while others, well, deal. What I have understood in the process of my growth is to sympathize with people. I have learned to see aspects from different standpoints; some people warrant that while others don’t. Development implies beginning to trust yourself, your decisions, and your choices. If walking away from specific individuals is the best thing, then trust yourself to do so and NEVER look back. You are the master of your image!

Most will concur that the year 2020 was not the most fascinating; planning Christmas was even more problematic. I mean, isn’t getting together for Christmas dinner what family is supposed to do? This year was very unusual due to the need to quarantine to stay safe, healthy and not risk contracting the Corona Virus. Most families commemorated this special day in small groups. As for us, we learned a precious lesson. We learned that it’s not about the size of your party but the people in your party. Sure, Covid brought the worst out of some; it also taught us how to live with less. It taught us who and what’s valuable and that life is short. Life is too short to dwell and deplete ourselves with things of lesser importance. My prayer is for normalcy, for our children to have their fair chance, for the elderly to be supported and surrounded, and for peace of mind.

So this year, I decided to spend my birthday in South Beach, FL 😎. Let me start by admitting; I couldn’t have selected a more ideal location to celebrate my 41st! For starters, the flight there was, of course, a bit bumpy but overall great. We stayed at the Residence Inn Surfside, which is a five-minute walk to the beach. Miami is unique because of its diversity and cultural heritage, which shows in the various food options. Miami has incredible Cuban restaurants, as well as French and Mediterranean, which were our favorites. From hanging out at prestigious shops to a night-time promenade at the beach, South Beach Miami was a breath of fresh air!

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I’m sure you all know (or have heard) how challenging it is to balance mommy-hood with work, marriage, and… life! As a mom of two incredibly active kids (believe me, “incredible” is an understatement), I am still learning ways to master this extraordinary skill. My son Yanick plays football year-round. There is no offseason for him because coach Parker keeps him on his toes. While My daughter Jolie keeps herself busy with cheer, she is also a local performer. She is involved in acting (musicals/theater), singing (talent shows), and attending various performing arts schools. Between football events, exhibitions, being a taxi mom, work, school, and making dinner, I hardly have time left for anything else. BUT… No matter how occupied life gets, my family is my pride and joy. I take pride in assuring that I remain healthy for them. This means staying physically, emotionally, and mentally balanced.

Although they’re siblings, each child is unique. Parents must accept and honor their children’s distinctions. My husband and I try to spend time with our children individually. We strongly feel that it is important to give them their [own] time and attention, allowing them to be open, transparent, and most importantly, be themselves.

#WorkingMom.

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Cruising with my hubby❤️

Traveling with children compels excellent time management skills. As a mom, it is absolutely up to you to make this a memorable trip for everyone, your hubby, and you are no exception! Find time to sneak off and enjoy each other. After all, this trip is also about the two of you. 😉

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We agreed to take our kids on a vacation cruise to Mexico. This was our very first cruise. Carnival cruises are memorable. Their crew take pride in customer service and assure one is having an incredible experience. We’ll definitely be doing this again❤️

I grew up traveling. Some of my most precious recollections are the times I traveled with my mother and siblings. My father was an ambassador (some countries refer to them as diplomats). He often stayed behind for working reasons. I was fortunate enough to tour the world, which justifies my ability to understand and appreciate the various cultures and traditions. I always wanted my children to have the same experiences as me; however, things are different. My mother was a businesswoman, although she stayed home a lot. She was (and still is) very business savvy and had what most refer to as “passive income.” She understood the meaning of working smart, not hard! She had all the time in the world to take us to different countries. I, on the other hand, am a full-time Registered Nurse. My husband and I are also business owners, which makes traveling quite challenging.

#CarnivalCruise. #FunInTheOcean.

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