Traveling with Mom

Today is my Mom's birthday. The second one since we lost her. Many of my favorite memories with my Mom are of our travels together. I accompanied her to a few conferences when I was young as well as vacations, visiting family and weddings. Although I enjoyed all our trips, I especially treasure the ones we took just the two of us.

One of my favorite memories is the first time I had room service. She had a conference in St. Louis. Back in the day, there was a card in the room with a menu. You would check what you wanted and hang it on the door. I felt so special getting a full carafe of coffee to enjoy while she was attending conference sessions. In her off time, we went to the baseball stadium and Anhauser-Bush factory. It was such a special time full of moments. I wish I had a million more.

Another favorite trip was to New Orleans for a friend’s wedding. This was the weekend before my 21st birthday and sadly they wouldn’t serve me any alcoholic beverages, but we still enjoyed delicious food and live music. It rained and we strolled around the sites in blue ponchos. 

I could go on forever and it brings me joy to pull these memories to the front of my mind, but I will leave it with one last trip. This one was gifted to my Mom for her birthday. A trip to Maryland to visit family. I am grateful to have had this experience of giving her something she had given me. We saw a play, ate incredible food, went to the botanical gardens and most importantly, spent time with people we love.

Traveling is in my heart and it is my greatest pleasure to share with people I love. Find what those things are for you and do it every chance you get. As Gretchen Rubin says in the Happier Podcast, “The days are long, but the years are short.” Mom and I never got to go to Disney together, but her unwavering support of my passion I carry with me on every trip.

More about Mom and Me at Lasts and Happy Birthday Mom.