Are you finally taking the plunge and planning your first trip to Vegas? Heck yeah, you are! Let’s get one thing straight—Sin City is way more than just slot machines and blackjack tables. You can walk for miles (and you will), feast on world-class food, and catch jaw-dropping shows.

After a few trips under our belt, I think my Hubby and I have mastered the perfect Vegas balance: a little gambling, a couple of killer shows, tons of exploring, lots of eats and, of course, some awesome free experiences to keep the budget in check.

So, here it is—my ultimate list of the TEN  free things to do in Las Vegas!

1. The Bellagio Fountains
Watch the spectacular water, music, and light show in front of the Bellagio. At last check the show runs every 15 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes in the evening.  

2. The Sphere (From the outside it’s free to explore) 
Marvel at the ever-changing digital displays on this giant high-tech entertainment venue.  Want to see what’s inside? This revolutionary venue hosts some incredibly immersive shows and concerts that are worth a peek.

3. Fremont Street Experience 

A dazzling LED light show covering five blocks in downtown Vegas, complete with live music and fab street performers. We find this street a little bit quieter during the day and more lively at night.  Every night starting at 6 pm, a light show takes over the Fremont Street Experience’s covered ceiling. It’s the world’s largest video screen and boasts stunning visuals set to popular songs and plays at the top of every hour until  2 am.

Note: Some street performers here are great – some a little more aggressive so as always be mindful of your surroundings!

4. The LINQ Promenade & High Roller Light Show 
Walk through this lively shopping and dining area, and at night, watch the giant High Roller observation wheel light up in vibrant colours.

5. The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes
Stroll through a replica of Venice, complete with canals, bridges, and live opera performances. (you can find some gelato here too!)

6. The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat
A peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city, The Flamingo Hotel with pink flamingos, koi fish, and waterfalls is a great little escape.

7. The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace 
A luxury shopping mall with pretty Roman architecture, a giant spiral escalator, and the free Fall of Atlantis animatronic show. The statues come alive in this short and quirky show.

8. The Art Installations at Aria & CityCenter 
Explore unique public art, sculptures, and interactive pieces in and around Aria, including the famous Silver River sculpture.

9. The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
A beautifully designed indoor garden that changes themes with the seasons.

10. Window Shopping at The Shops at Crystals

All the window shopping, everywhere! Browse high-end brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada at this ultra-luxurious shopping centre in CityCenter.

Vegas is a city like no other, and whether you’re hitting the Strip for the first time or making a return visit, there’s always something new to explore—without spending a dime! From dazzling fountains to jaw-dropping light shows and luxurious shopping, you’ll find plenty of ways to soak up the magic of Vegas for free or nearly free.

So, pack your comfiest shoes, charge your phone for all those photo ops, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Have an amazing time, and safe travels!

The post 10 Free Things To Do On Your First Trip To Las Vegas first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

It was one of those moments you don’t soon forget…

As I sat there quietly reading my book, I glanced over at my daughter and immediately knew we had a problem.  The girl who usually drifted through life with a permanent smile on her face was pale, trembling, and had eyes as big as saucers.  “Mom” she whispered.  “I feel car sick…on the plane?”.  Oh oh.  Having been here before I knew what to do and silently slid into action.

Motion sickness most often affects children, but can hit any tired traveller at any time.  Here are my 10 tips on how we deal with motion sickness on a plane.

1. Plan ahead.  If you or someone you love is prone to motion sickness; take or dispense the recommended dosage of Gravol before that flight leaves the ground.
2. Know your pressure points. Use your three fingers to press your inner wrist, or pinch between your skin between your thumb and pointer finger.  Hold for a few minutes until nausea passes. Alternately, invest in Sea-Bands (about $12.00) to do the work for you.  Sea-Bands are a small comfortable set of wrist bands that fit around your wrists and activates these acupressure points for you.
3. Be mindful of what you or your child eats before they get on a plane.  Heavy or spicy meals that might upset tummies are not a good choice before a flight.
4. Pack mints, gum and crackers, or request a ginger-ale from your flight attendant.  All may be urban myths, but do seem to help with a queasy stomach.
5. Choose a seat over the wing of the plane or closer to the front of the aircraft where you will feel less motion during the flight.
6. When choosing your seats on the plane, pick a seat by the window.  This will allow your child to look out the window and focus on the horizon.
7. Open the vent above your seat to provide a source of fresh air.
8. Use the tool of distraction. Little people might have some anxiety about flying.  Be sure to bring along a few new toys or crafts to entertain your child with.  You may be surprised by how fast that “funny tummy” disappears.
9. Put the book away and avoid playing hand held games.  Looking down and concentrating on a book or game when you are not feeling well can actually exasperate the symptoms of motion sickness.  Instead, encourage your child to close their eyes, take deep breaths and even getting some rest.
10. Last resort: Pack “sick bags”.  Yes, I know it sounds awful, but it is so much better to be prepared with small but durable”Barf Bags” found on-line at Amazon or at your local Shopper’s Drug Mart.

If you happen to have a family member who occasionally suffers from motion sickness the best thing to do is to remain positive.  Be proactive, have a plan, and remember this “not well” feeling won’t last long.

Have you had to deal with the dreaded motion sickness on a plane?  Have a tip to share that I missed?  Comment away! I’d love to know.

Safe travels!

The post 10 Ways To Combat Motion Sickness …On A Plane first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

Every once in a while – if you are very lucky – you stumble across a place you know in an instant you will never forget.  This was the case with Sorrento, Italy.  My dear daughter and I were incredibly lucky to spend 4 magical days exploring the area.  We walked until our feet hurt, laughed until our sides ached and even challenged ourselves to squeeze into a teeny tiny boat off the coast of Capri.  Are you ready to plan the trip of a lifetime? Here’s my top list of what you MUST do and a couple of pitfalls to avoid on your next trip!

1. Explore the Historic Center: Just wander! Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Sorrento’s historic centre. Discover its narrow alleyways, vibrant piazzas, and beautiful architecture. Don’t miss Piazza Tasso, the main square, where you can relax at outdoor cafes and do all the people-watching.

2. Try some Limoncello: (or anything lemon- it’s everywhere!) Sorrento is known for its delicious Limoncello liqueur, made from local lemons. The lemons here are HUGE.

3. Live like a local and spend some time seaside. Enjoy the water relaxing at one of Sorrento’s beautiful beaches. Popular options include Marina Grande, a small fishing village with a sandy beach, and Marina Piccola, a picturesque pebble beach.

4. Taste the Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavours of the region by trying authentic Neapolitan pizza, fresh seafood dishes, and local specialties like gnocchi alla Sorrentina. Do what we did and pick a spot with a view you will never forget!

5. Take a Day Trip to Pompeii: Sorrento is located close to the ancient city of Pompeii, which was buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius. Embark on a guided tour of this archaeological site to explore the well-preserved ruins and gain insights into the ancient Roman civilization.  Tip: It gets HOT in these ruins. Take lots of water, sunscreen and a hat!

6. Maybe my favourite thing of all.  Take a Boat Trip to Capri! Sorrento is a great starting point for a day trip to the stunning island of Capri. Hop on a boat and explore the island’s crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and the famous Blue Grotto.

Catching a boat from Sorrento to Capri is easy if you know what to do.  Just follow these easy steps:

1. There are two main departure points for boats to Capri in Sorrento: Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. Check which port your boat will depart from as it may vary depending on the ferry company and the time of year.

2. Check the Ferry Schedule: Look up the ferry schedule in advance to plan your trip. Several ferry companies operate routes between Sorrento and Capri, such as SNAV, Caremar, and NLG. Check their websites or visit a local travel agency for the most up-to-date schedules.

3. Purchase Tickets: You can buy tickets for the ferry either online in advance, directly at the ticket office in Sorrento or like we did – right at the Marina. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak tourist seasons to secure your spot.

4. Arrive at the Port: Arrive at the designated port at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This will allow enough time for ticket validation and boarding.  *I recommend buying a bottle of water before you board your ferry.

5. Enjoy the Journey: Find a comfortable seat on the ferry and enjoy the scenic ride from Sorrento to Capri. Admire the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and the coastline as you approach the island.

6. Arriving in Capri: The ferry will dock at the Marina Grande port in Capri. From there, you can start exploring the island.

Return Trip: When you’re ready to return to Sorrento, check the ferry schedules from Capri back to Sorrento. Ensure that you allow enough time to get back to the port, purchase your return tickets if needed, and board the ferry.  *If it’s a very busy time of year make sure you buy those return tickets ahead of time – they do sell out!

Sorrento offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and delightful culinary experiences. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, stunning views, and the warm hospitality of this coastal town.

Happy travels!

The post The BEST Things To Do In Sorrento Italy! first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

Packing for a vacation to Europe can be a bit stressful.  Packing for a last minute 21-day trip to Europe with just a carry-on bag?  That notches things up to a whole other level.  This kind of adventure requires some super strategic planning, some smart packing and maybe even a little bit of luck. Want to know a secret? It can be done.

This past summer a fun challenge was thrown in my lap.  A very, very lasting minute invitation to meet my daughter in Milan Italy and spend the next 3 or so weeks tripping through Europe with her. The only catch?  I had only 48 hours to find and book plane tickets, do a wee bit of shopping, get my work and family life in order AND pack up everything I would need for 21 days in JUST  a carry on!  Whew.  Spoiler alert: When there’s a will, there’s a way.

Do I wish I’d had a list to work from?  Yes, yes I do. So here’s a minimalist packing list to help you make the most out of limited space and yet pack everything you could ever need for a 21 day adventure in Europe.

Your Bags;

Tip 1. Know your airlines restrictions. I was flying Air Canada and was permitted one “carry on” and one “personal item”.  Believe me when I tell you I made the most of every inch of those two bags.  (plus I wore a travel safe purse that I could squeeze into my personal item if I needed to)

Tip 2: Make sure that carry on has great wheels!

Tip 3: Use packing cubes to help keep you organized.

Tip 4: Make sure your passport is still up to date!

Clothing:

1. Five Tops:
   • Mix of short-sleeve, tank tops and 1 long-sleeve shirt.
2. Five Bottoms:
   • 1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of leggings, 2 skorts, 1 pari of shorts that can be easily mixed and matched.
3. One Jacket& One Cozy Sweater:
   • A lightweight, versatile waterproof jacket or sweater that can be layered.
4. Two-Three Dresses:
   • A versatile dress and a maxi skirt and top that can be dressed up or down.
5. Underwear/Socks etc:
   • As many pairs of underwear as you can fit!  Two- three bras and at least 5 pairs of socks.  Bonus pair of socks could be a pair of compression socks. Also consider a pair of bike shorts for under your dresses. If you know, you know!
6. Pajamas/Loungewear:
   • 2 Comfortable sets of sleepwear for relaxing in the evenings.  One that was warm and one cool!
7. Swimsuit/coverup (plus flip lops if you have room)
8. Pashmina Scarf or Shawl
9. Shoes:
   • Comfortable walking shoes suitable for various terrains. (wear these on the plane)
   • Sandals or lightweight flats for warmer days.

Toiletries and Personal Care:

1. Travel-sized Toiletries:
   • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, razor, and other essentials.
   • Travel laundry sheets and a Shout Stick! (trust me, you will need this)
2. Toothbrush and Dental Floss:
   • Toothbrush and a small container of dental floss.
3. Haircare:
   • Hairbrush or comb, hair ties, or clips. Curling wand if you have room. ( I made room!)
4. Skincare:
   • Moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm, travel size perfume and all the make-up!  I saved a ton of space here by packing travel size make-up and truly packing only the essentials.
5. Basic First Aid Kit:
   • Band-aids, blister band-aids, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, vitamins, and all necessary prescription medications.

Electronics and Accessories:

1. Smartphone and Charger:
   • Portable charger/power bank is a bonus if you have space
2. Adapter Plug:
   • Adapter for European outlets.
3. Earphones/Earbuds:
   • A life saver on those train rides.

Travel Necessities :

• Travel Wallet:
  • To secure your ID, passports, cards and cash as well as a copy of your itinerary and travel insurance
• Lightweight Daypack or Foldable Tote Bag:
  • For daily outings. So important for those trips to the beach or grocery store runs!
  • Travel insurance documents
• Money and Banking:
  • • Credit/debit cards
    • Some local currency (Euros or the currency of the country you’re visiting)
• Sunglasses and or hat: for sun protection
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizers
• Apple Air Tags: an extra layer of safety
• Ear plugs: hotels can be noisy
• Bounce Sheet (or laundry dryer sheet): slide one or two of these into your bags to help keep your laundry smelling fresh and clean

Optional If You Have Space:

1. 1. 1. Snacks:  Protein bars, gum, candy.
      2. Book: Truly a must for me when I fly

Remember, you can always do laundry during your trip, so you don’t need to pack a fresh set of clothes for each day. Choose versatile, comfortable, and even moisture-wicking fabrics. Wear your bulkiest items (like your jacket and/or sweatshirt) on the plane to save space in your carry-on bag.  Happy packing and safe travels!

The post 21 Day Trip to Europe in A Carry On! first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

I’ve been keeping a secret.  I’m not just a writer and travel blogger – I also help to coordinate fabulous weddings at a gorgeous wedding venue in my hometown.  Over the years I’ve learned a lot, not just about what it takes to have an incredible wedding day, but what  couples should be doing and asking BEFORE they book their wedding venue.  Are you or someone you know looking to plan a stunning wedding event in the near future?

Here are the things you need to know BEFORE you book that dream venue.

First; know your own heart.

1. Do you have a vision in mind?  Do you want a city glam event, a country barn vibe, a classic country club feel, a small intimate event.  Spend some time talking with your partner and figure this out. This will help you decide what kind of venues to reach out to.
2. ALL THE PEOPLE or loved ones only.  That guest list is important.  Know your numbers before you go.  A venue that works for 50 guests may  be very different than one that you look at for 150.
3. Set your budget.  This is a big one.  Are you and your partner paying for this all on your own?  Are parents or other loved ones helping out?  Having a rough idea of what your overall budget helps – knowing that a great amount of this budget should be dedicated to your venue, food and alcohol helps with the overall planning.
4. Pick your season, not your date. You can aim for your dream date if you are booking a couple of years ahead. Otherwise try and be a little bit flexible. Great venues can book up years in advance so if you want to avoid heartache aim for “Summer of 2024” or “September 2025” then narrow it down from there!  **Insider tip:  Have a date you TRULY want. Book that venue as soon as you can.  We’ve had couples come, tour and book before they are even engaged.  Don’t worry, we can keep a secret!

Things To Ask Your Potential Vendor

1. What is the capacity of your room?
2. Is there an outdoor space for pictures?
3. Do you have a Bridal Suite? When are we allowed to access it?
4. Do you have an in-house Chef or caterer? Are we allowed to bring in outside caterers?
5. Do you accommodate for dietary restrictions? Ie Gluten free
6. Is a menu tasting included with your booked event? What does that include?
7. How many weddings do you have on-site per weekend?
8. When can vendors arrive for setup?  When can I?
9. Do you have a list of approved or recommended vendors we can use?
10. Is parking available on-site? Can cars be left over night? Will guests be charged for parking?
11. What is the accessibility like? Be sure to consider the needs of all your guests when looking at venue.
12. How much is the deposit and what is the payment schedule after that?
13. Are there hotel accommodations nearby for wedding guests?
14. Can we personalize our event?  Ie Can I bring my dog onsite for pictures? Do you allow for lawn games?
15. What was the vibe/feel of your visit? Did you get along with the person/ wedding co-ordinator showing you around? Can you see yourself communicating and planning with them about your dream day for the next year or more?

Most of all when you are starting to plan for your big day remember that is the marriage that is important, the wedding day should just be the gorgeous, fun, fabulous icing on the cake!

Happy planning!

The post Planning a Wedding? What To Know BEFORE You Book Your Venue first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

So where do you start? If you could go anywhere, where would you and how would you do it?  Simple.

You start with HomeExchange.

What exactly is HomeExchange?

It’s the world’s largest home exchanging community, it offers a warmer, more authentic, and truly more budget-friendly alternative to staying in traditional paid accommodations.  They are currently the #1 worldwide home exchange community and can open up your heart and your mind to an entirely new way to travel.

When we arrived here is what greeted us.  Check out this space, that light!  The large sliding glass doors opened up the length of the unit to the expansive deck.  That deck just happens to be where we ended up having our coffee every morning as we watched for whales off in the distance.  Surreal would be the best way to describe this place, this magical condo was all ours for the entire week.

The family and kitchen were clean, warm and cozy.  The three bedrooms and bathrooms beyond perfect.

There were multiple pools on site all with slightly different views.  Our favourite was the one with the restaurant / pool bar attached.  This wasn’t a hard spot to sit and spend the afternoon!

This incredible condo overlooking the golf course, ocean and the mountains was the perfect place to use as a home base and explore from.  We made day trips to the epic beach club….

And took advantage of the location close to downtown Cabo to venture into the city and explore all this exhilarating city had to offer.  From taco stands to 5 star restaurants, walking tours to boat excursions we tried to do it all!

My only regret on this trip….that we didn’t bring our girls along to experience it with us.

Why try a HomeExchange?

HomeExchange offers a whole new experience: to stay in real, authentic homes, and vacation homes and live like a local. HomeExchange allows you to stay in areas you never could with a traditional hotel experience.  Think the most exclusive areas of London England, an area you’ve been dreaming to explore in Paris, an eclectic part of San Francisco or in our case the unique resort condo area a stones throw from Cabo.  A HomeExchange also allows for one very big item that regular hotels do not; space.  Our particular exchange was perfect for the two of us. However had I been travelling with my kids, or even some other couples, there still would have been lots of room with the multiple bedrooms and bathrooms!

HomeExchange currently has a community of more than 100,000 members in 133 countries that are building the future of travel together by sharing the belief that home exchange is the most authentic, humane, and responsible way to discover new places, new cultures, and new people.

Intrigued? Here’s how to get started?

Follow these 6 easy steps:

1. Register at HomeExchange.com  There is a fee to sign up.  Note  The fee is only to be paid once an exchange is finalized.  Signing up and contacting other members remain free until you have finalized something concrete for your vacation.
2. Complete your listing.
3. Choose your destination.
4. Contact members.
5. Finalize the exchange.
6. Enjoy your vacations!

Thanks to HomeExchange we once again had another amazing vacation in a place we otherwise may never have explored.  This trip was like none other I’ve ever taken.  Not only did I get to see a new part of the world, but via e-mail, I got to connect with a home owner from another part of the world and I’m currently talking to some HomeExchangers in Arizona about a trip next summer!  (and trying to figure out how to squeeze in a trip to Paris and London too!) If you’re looking for a different way to travel, perhaps a more authentic way, maybe to meet more people, or to exchange your own home and save some money along the way, take a peek at HomeExchange and see what’s out there in the world just waiting for you. As I often say; Life is short, eat the cake, buy the shoes, take the trip.

The post Making Our Travel Dreams Come True With HomeExchange first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

The post How To Pack For Travel NOW! first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

Current mood; frustrated.  I feel like we’ve been living life on a treadmill.  Going about our days, getting it done but not really living our best lives.   I’m feeling a tad stir crazy.  I’ve gone from someone who was self admittedly spoiled – travelling multiple times a year – to being trapped in our house, in our town, in this Province.  Maybe trapped is a bit strong of a word because honestly I know we could have jumped on a plane but I’m a rule follower and I’ve been waiting for that proverbial green light.  Here’s the thing, I am missing my travelling life so much it sorta hurts?

Does this ring a bell with anyone else?  I can’t be the only one who is craving the beach, the adventure, the unique memories that can only be created when travelling.  Full confession; I’m even missing the budgeting, the planning, the packing, and tedious time at the airport!   If any of this sounds like you, perhaps it’s time to brave up, (vaccinated and hand sanitized to the max) and head out on that next family vacation.  No more excuses, no more putting it off until tomorrow. After all, if this last 18 months has taught us anything we have no idea what the future holds.

Here are five reasons you need to make a family vacation a priority.  NOW.

1. Travel Is It’s Own Education.  Travel turns you and your children into global citizens and offers experiences you can’t get in a classroom.  Travel provides you the opportunity to see and learn about the things you may have only read about in books and seen on TV.  A well planned trip allows for rich experiences to enhance classroom experiences, an opportunity to explore new culture.  It allows you to really spread your wings.

2. Memories Made.  It’s been said you only get 18 summers with your children.  I think we get a few more than that!  But how many family vacations do you get before your children would rather travel with friends, or are they are tied down by work obligations of their own?  Travel with family provides the opportunities to create precious memories that will last a lifetime.

3. A Family That Plays Together Stays Together.  Vacations with planes, trains and automobiles.  Travel that involve new places, hotels and restaurants force you to function together, work together and play together.  The entire experience will strenghen your relationship with your partner and your family.

4.  A Chance To Unplug.  With Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, and TikTok, the world is too often viewed through a tiny screen.  There are so few opportunities in this world to truly unplug.  A family vacation to the beach (with a small electronics rule in place) can afford your family the chance to not only disconnect from the world for a week, but re-connect with those people you love the most, to look up, and notice the beauty that surrounds all of you.  

5. To Remember The World Is Bigger Than Beyond Your Backdoor.  The world is full of beautiful people, places, rich history and cultures.  Travel is the ticket to see the world beyond their backdoor.

Travel is an incredible way to create quality time with your family.  Time spent exploring a new place, bonding, laughing and learning.  Time spent surrounded by those you love with no distractions is one of the biggest gifts travel can give you.  On that note it’s time to hit google hard and start planning that next vacation.  The only question that remains is where we will go next!?

When will you travel again?  Where do you dream of travelling next?

The post Missing Adventure? 5 Reasons To Travel Now first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

Last time I was in Tampa we stayed at the Fenway Hotel, spent hours wandering around The Oxford Exchange, explored Honeymoon Island and fell in love with the Florida Aquarium.  Here’s just a little bit about everything I learned…

Where to Stay:

Fenway Hotel:

A short hours drive outside of Tampa is the iconic Fenway Hotel.  Driving up it’s majestic circular drive you can’t help but feel that you’ve stepped back in time.  Built in 1924, the Fenway Hotel is a landmark in it’s community and a hot spot to gather for locals and visitors alike.  The Fenway Hotel is home to HEW Parlor and Chop House and the lively “hifi” roof top patio that boasts the most inspiring of sunsets.

The Fenway is a beauty of a hotel, maybe even more attractive to the music lover.  This boutique hotel immediately sets itself apart from all others with it’s nod to the age of jazz.  Jazz, the music, and the vibe are weaved into your entire stay.  As you enter the lobby you are greeted by a live jazz band that plays throughout the day.  Check in is swift and sweet, complete with the hotels signature champagne drink.  Divine.

It is only after check in then that you begin to realize how special this stay will actually be.  The Fenway served as the country’s first radio station, and has now been transformed into a destination like no other. With walls echoing its musical heritage, warm and welcoming staff referring to themselves as “the band” and an Alexa in every room just waiting to assist you, the Fenway is truly a unique experience.  Go for the experience, stay for the vibe,  but don’t miss the restaurant!

Have you been to Florida?  Where is your favourite spot is and where should we head next?

The post Planning My Return Trip To Tampa! first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.

Not so long I stumbled across a little something that struck a chord with me.  A challenge?  A call?  Boiled down…simply an idea to start building a list of dreams.  To take some time and create an unedited list of anything you want out of your life.  I started.  I stopped.  I worried.  Was it silly to create a list now as I crept closer and closer to 50?  Um no.  I think because I AM celebrating my 50th birthday -THIS WEEK – while at home riding out a worldwide pandemic (instead of in the French Rivera as we’d planned) it’s more important than ever to look for the positive and maybe even dream some new dreams.

As I started I realized I was way overthinking this and had to give myself some rules. It went like this.  No ideas are too big, none are too small and I decided it’s okay to include a couple of the biggies I’ve already accomplished – you know because it makes me feel GOOD to have some things already crossed off!

So here we go, a peek inside the crazy the week of my 50th birthday. Feeling grateful, looking for the bright side and starting this week by simply dreaming  FIFTY big old dreams…

1. Snap a jaw dropping picture of the Grand Canyon.
2. Take a river cruise through Europe.
3. Live some where far, far away for an entire month. (At least once)
4. Plan another family trip to Disney. (you are never too old for Disney)
5. Check off at least 3 more Caribbean islands with my Hubby.  Hmmm: St Lucia, Antiqua and Grand Cayman sound like a good start.
6. Take a couples trip to Vegas.  Maybe Zip Line across Freemont street, you know,  just because we can.
7. Eat at a Gordon Ramsay restaurant. Hmm, but which one?
8. Go to the top of the Eiffel Tower with one of my BFFs.  Celebrate all the little things and dreams coming true.
9. Add a Lock to the Pont des Arts Bridge in Paris with the love of my life.
10. Walk the streets of Santorini.
11. Make a call from a London phone booth.
12. Sail on a private yacht off the coast of the French Rivera.
13. Throw a coin in the Trevi fountain.
14. Take a gondola ride in Venice.
15. Get lost in the confusing streets of Lake Como.
16. Jump off a waterfall.  Is it jump off or jump in?
17. Introduce Yoga into my life.
18. Learn to use chopsticks properly. I’m an embarrassment.
19. Master a pasta salad people talk about.  Please feel free to leave me your recipe!
20. Take a Goat Yoga Class.
21. Create that dream closet. Edit my wardrobe  and get rid of that stuff I’m never going to wear again.
22. Schedule a real date night once a month for a year.
23. Organize our family recipes.
24. Celebrate our 25th anniversary – this September!
25. Celebrate our 50th anniversary.
26. Let go of a floating lantern and all the hurt that goes with it.
27. Pay for a strangers restaurant bill.
28. Name a star.
29. Build our dream house.
30. Support our daughters through University.
31. Make more time for reading and spend less time on my phone.
32.  Watch a sunset from our own condo in Turks and Caicos.  (no dream is too big, right?).
33. Spend less time worrying and more time in the moment.
34. Have coffee or lunch with a girlfriend at least twice a month.  Why is it so hard to make time for me?
35. Re-connect with some people I’ve lost touch with.
36. Have family photos done.
37. Buy more fresh flowers for the kitchen…just because I want to.
38. Fix up the gardens around the pool.
39. Shop more often at the local farmers markets.
40. Walk alpacas.  Because why not?
41. Go apple picking.
42. Have a date night at the Drive In!
43. Get published in a travel magazine.  Done and done!
44. Learn to say “no”.  Working on it.  Sigh.
45. Find some new great blogs to read, comment and support.
46. Re-do my office.
47. Protect and cherish our family cottaging tradition.
48. Master a less embarrassing game of golf.  Having all the cute outfits is fun but a decent swing would be nice too.
49. Take an indulgent multi-generational trip with my parents, my kids, my sister…all the fam.  Embrace the crazy and all the memories that are bound to come with it.
50. …..

And number 50?  I’m leaving this one blank.   Soon, so SOON and I’m going to celebrate these little moments and every damn thing that follows.  I’m going to keep dreaming, planning and adding to this list.  I may have turned 50 this week but when it comes to knocking dreams off my list?  I’m just getting started….

The post 50 Dreams The Week I Turn 50! first appeared on How to Survive Life in the Suburbs.