A Fine Wine

Similar to cheese and grapes, time and wine pair well together.

“Are you still managing okay Taylor?”

At 2 months into the cruise, I get this question regularly from crew and guests alike. And it shocks me.

I have tasty food available to me all the time, my bed made for me daily if I want, a full library, regular activities and entertainment. A gym, pool, hot tub, sauna at my constant disposal. I mean, my veggies for my salad are already precut. Who am I kidding, my salad is made for me, I don’t even lift a finger.

So. Let me think about that… am I managing okay?

I suppose I’m managing with my time on the ship… to say the least.

Everything is incredible. And I’m enjoying these sea days a lot more than I expected to. As we made our way across the Indian Ocean from Australia to Africa in 7 days, I really saw that. Because on day 7 I thought we were on day 5 and still had 2 days left.

Life is so good. Shauna and I sing at the top of our lungs when we please, giggle at everything, go with the flow, play lots of ping pong even though we’re horrible, and find ourselves spending as much time at the gym as a rat.

To everyone taking the time to read my blogs, thank you. I've received a lot of compliments about my writing, and that means so much to me. The fact that people take the time to read what I have to say really shows how much love and support I have in my corner. The best compliment I've ever received regarding my writing was from Professor Andy Christensen, who taught Business and Professional Communication- which just so happens to be one of the courses I remember most. He told me my writing was like a fine wine... I'll never forget that.

But, after all, I did start this blog primarily for myself. So I’m going to take some time to write for me.

I hope when I read this years down the road I can think back to these casual days when my biggest worry was making it to arts and crafts on time and trying to perfect my lollipop loop. Or, trying to flirt with the cute crew member and being TERRIBLE at it

(you know who you are… and… if you read that…

No you didn’t)

Anyway, it’s easy to get caught up in the stressors of life. Trying to figure out a retirement plan, finding a career, how to invest in things, and the like. Of course it’s important to be proactive with this stuff. But, these last 2 months have also helped remind me to remember when what I wanted is what I currently have. It’s okay that I don’t have it all figured out, and I’m learning.

Affirmation time: I’m proud of myself. I’m brave, I’m kind, I’m comfortable being vulnerable and admitting when I’m wrong. I’m learning how to balance vices. I’m improving on my patience. I like my smile. I like my zest for life- the crazy adventures of traveling the world and the mundane acts of enjoying coffee or reading a good book. I'm a happy person, I smile often, and I laugh easy. I love this stage of life, and I don’t have to compare myself to others.

Sending much love and good vibes,

Tay