Sunshine, Please

February 18, 2026

I’m not going to lie.

I’m tired.

The last however long has been… something.

Incredible and challenging.

Rewarding and disappointing.

Peaceful and electric.

I truly do feel amazing.

And also?

I’m tired.

Not burnt out.

Not falling apart.

The kind of tired when your body and brain say, "We need a break."

So, I am seriously thinking about a vacation.

Not a quick, last-minute weekend.

Not a trip where I’m coordinating logistics for everyone else.

Not a “get away” that still requires me to be the adult.

Something just for me.

Last May, three weeks after my dad died, my sister and I went to Belize.

It was incredible.

I snorkeled.

Went spearfishing.

Free dove for live conch.

I really wanted to go lobster hunting but they were out of season.

We rode bicycles through sandy streets.

Explored an ancient Mayan cave and tried not to step on artifacts.

Went fishing with friends.

I swam with wild manatees.

Waded into a lagoon and let sting rays nibble at our feet.

Let the sun warm our skin and the ocean rinse the heavy from our bones.

And we cried.

A lot.

It was magical and healing and hard all at once.

Here I am now,

searching for a new destination.

This time without the shockwave.

Without the life explosion.

Without the grief driving the plane.

Just me.

Choosing joy on purpose.

The requirements are simple:

Sunshine.

Adventure.

Beautiful views.

Culture.

And delicious food.

My spring is busy.

But I know myself.

If I decide this matters,

I will find a way.