Ever since I filed for divorce I have done more things for the first time. I left an unhappy marriage and It would have been pointless for me to leave if I didn’t go find my joy. That mission is mine alone. I love my new sense of adventure and all that it has added to my life.

At the end of last year I started to think about my upcoming birthday. This year I wanted to do something special to mark the occasion. I decided that I would take my first solo international trip. Wow! That was going to be huge for me. This would push me beyond my comfort zone for sure.

It didn’t take long before I had settled on a destination where I had never been. To add a degree of difficulty(typical of me) I decided to fly out of an airport in another country. This meant that I had to do some research to make certain that I would be safe and had all of the necessary documents. I even spoke with friends who had also taken the same route. I felt pretty confident about my decision and I was ready. My family and friends were terrified of my plans.

The day that I left on vacation I had to inform a host of people of my every move. It felt good that so many people were concerned about me. I was eager to get going. It was a whole day of travel that began with a redeye flight. Late morning of the next day I arrived in one piece. I let everyone know so they could resume their normal activities. The resort was absolutely beautiful and I couldn’t wait to get to my room. The views were breathtaking. I had made the right decision.

You’re probably wondering how I survived alone. Well, that’s just it, I was not alone. I met a family who “adopted me” and invited me to some of the activities that they had scheduled. Sometimes I attended an activity or I thanked them and told them about my alternate plans. Then there was the couple I saw at the pool every day and we would always chat for a bit. You can never get away from the chatty chugger as they will always find you. I certainly won’t forget the couple who struggled to get an Uber to the airport. When my transportation arrived, I told them to come with me. I was never lonely however I enjoyed the alone time that I had. There is something to be said for doing whatever you want, whenever you want.

Toward the end of the trip I ventured out of the hotel. I went across the street to the mall to window shop. Then I found a restaurant with nice views. I was proud of myself because I didn’t feel the need to buy something. After all I had already given myself the ultimate birthday gift. Once I got back to the resort all I wanted to do was head to the pool to vegetate. The next day I would have to pack up and leave paradise. Honestly it didn’t seem so hard because I have my life set up just the way I need it and it works for me. It’s my own piece of paradise.

This trip was everything for me. It gave me the chance to spread my wings. I am so happy that I said yes to adventure. I saw something different, learned something new and gained a few new friendships. You have to be open to new experiences. It ushers in a whole new season and makes room for change. That is what we call growth.

Regina H