This will be the second cruise for me and MaKenzye, and it’s already become something I want us to keep as a tradition. Once a year, just me and her—our own mother & daughter trip. 
Last year we had an amazing time, and now here we are again, bags (almost) packed and ready for round two.
Now, let me be real with y’all—I promised myself this time I am NOT taking all that stuff I took last year that just sat in the suitcase untouched. 
Right now, I’m in that stage of trying to get my mind together to pack light, breathe, and focus on what matters most: being away from work, taking a break, and reflecting on some things in my life.
I won’t lie, though—any time I travel, I get a little anxious. That’s just me being honest. But I’m also excited. This year we’re trying a new cruise line, and the unknown has a way of being both nerve-racking and thrilling at the same time.
I’m grateful—grateful for life, grateful for the resources that let me take this trip, and most of all grateful that God still loves me in spite of me. That alone makes me want to take care of myself while I’m away. I even signed up for some workout classes on the ship. I’m looking forward to sitting on my balcony, hearing my own heart beating, and remembering to love myself.
And yes, I’ve already got my adventure list ready. 
This ship has surfing, big water slides, and karaoke—and don’t laugh—but I already know I’m getting up there to sing “Affirmations” by Flippa T. Is it gospel? Nope. But do I love it? Absolutely! I also hope to meet amazing people like we did last year—I still keep in touch with some of them, and that’s the kind of energy I want more of in my life.
I plan to get out, explore the ship, and join in on events—even ones that might be outside my usual taste. Because why not? That’s part of living fully. 
For me, the things that bring life are simple: good food, good people, a little shopping, and quiet moments. I already know MaKenzye will be out late nights living her best life, so I’ll have that me-time to recharge. Last year I found myself in the room alone a lot because she was out, and honestly, it gave me space to reflect.
But I’m also looking forward to it. I’m at a point where I no longer want to shrink myself to fit into spaces. I need to surround myself with like-minded people, people I admire, people already walking in the direction I see for myself. This season has me by myself a lot—but I am not alone. 
I stay close to God’s word, I stay true to my spirit, and that’s enough.
And speaking of enough—let me tell y’all something funny. 
We’ve got matching tank tops this time that say “Mother” and “Daughter.” Last year, folks thought we were a couple. The minute they found out that wasn’t the case, whew, in my MaKenzye voice: “Girl, you ain’t bought another drink since they learned that wasn’t the case.” The way she said it had me rolling.
This year, though, I’m carrying a new energy with me: peace. Freedom. Joy. 
This is cruise #2 of our mother-daughter vacation, and I plan to celebrate the peace I’ve worked hard for by keeping it. I don’t sleep better, work out better, or live better when I’m performing for attention. I live better when I’m just being me. And right here, right now, I can say with confidence:
I am enough.
BrandiJ