Dear Mom,
Thank you for planning all those family vacations when my brother and I were growing up. I truly had a blast, turning tennis tournaments into vacation – always making time to explore, stopping off at shops and trying new restaurants.
Our annual trips to Arizona during Christmas will always be some of my favorite memories. I think I fell in love with traveling somewhere in the desolate deserts of Arizona. Or was it the drive into Sedona surrounded by red rocks, feeling like at some point we’d drive off the edge of the Earth?
Thank you for being my first travel partner. You introduced me to travel, showing me the excitement and beauty of seeing new places. We’ve indulged at the Mall of America in Minnesota, walked the beautiful streets of Savannah (Georgia), laughed and cried at a Broadway play in New York City, took in the glitz of Laguna Beach, flew to Las Vegas to see Garth Brooks perform at the Wynn. I could go on for ages.
But you also never let me forget the fun we have in our own backyard in Tennessee. There’s new restaurants and boutiques popping up around every corner, great music to enjoy in downtown and sporting events too fun to miss out on.
Thank you for showing me that travel is worth it. You’ve taught me to work hard so that I can take time off for vacation. Getting through rough spells of work is easier when you have a light at the end of the tunnel you’re working towards. We all deserve a break whether it’s sitting on a beach with a fruity cocktail, people-watching in a European square or taking a road trip with beautiful views around every corner.
Thank you for supporting my decision to travel solo even though you wish I’d find someone – anyone – to go with. You don’t fully understand why I do it, but you always show interest in my plans and journeys. You end up sending me interesting articles and photos you find online of places I’m traveling to or want to see.
Mom, we’ve been to over 20 states together. Every trip leaves us with endless memories. I love traveling together, and I’m excited to add more destinations to our list of adventures. Happy Mother’s Day to the amazing woman who showed me just how cool traveling is.
Thank you to all the mothers teaching their sons and daughters to travel. You’ve given them life. Now show them the world.
Love,
Kaylene
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