May 2018

While in Florida, I didn't expect to see my pal, Karen Hillman.

She was planning a trip to Kansas the next week and we had plans then.

But Guncle Randy took me out to a shopping center one morning while I was in Jax, and as I strolled into a pretty shop- there she was! What a surprise. She'd driven almost TWO HOURS, brought me a decadent cake, and a gift card, leaving me speechless when I saw her waiting for me.

She couldn't stay for the day, she had to turn around, drive that long trek right back and get to work for the afternoon (two photo shoots). During her quick trip, she helped me choose a pile of things to try on and we had an hour together while Randy waited patiently, and was asked to comment here and there on our Pretty Woman style spree.

He was much more patient than you'd expect. What a nice guy to hang out while we tried on mountains of clothes.

It seems like I rarely have time to shop, and when I do, it is for the grand fairies. Or I'm at TJ Maxx, finding a quick tee shirt or two. Shopping with buddies was a nice change, and both convinced me to buy things I probably wouldn't have on my own.

When a person with as much style as Karen does, tells you that you should wear more red, you buy something red. She also thought this dress wasn't too young for me… I'm going to wear it on my Big Birthday Boat Trip.

This was waiting in front of the dressing room door, how cute.

The cake was amazing too. And how sweet of her to take the time to do this for me. I feel so blessed.

MORE from the florida trip??? Yep, I was blessed!

celebrations, family, Travel

By Karla Nathan / May 1, 2018

After seeing my life long, best buds to celebrate the three of us turning 60, the party went on! Sister Terry drove from Orlando to St. Augustine to fetch me, and headed back again to Orlando, so we could go straight to the Flower and Garden event at Epcot.

Afterwards, we checked into a luxurious suite at the Animal Kingdom Lodge where we were greeted by some of the creatures that roam the grounds.

The next day, Terry had quite an adventure planned. I started off lazying about on the balcony, sipping my coffee and watching for zebras to visit, then we headed to Animal KIngdom park. She had set up fast passes for the afternoon, then an evening filled with the best Disney magic you could ever hope for…

WE WENT ON THE VIP TOUR!

And yes, it was amazing. And even better than you'd think it would be.

I was blown away.

We were taken on a tour of the top 5 rides and then front row and center at the Rivers of Light, by two guides, one who looked like he stepped right out of a Disney movie.

He kept us entertained with puns and trivia. I told him that my grand fairies would have been very impressed with him. (because that is what grammies do, they blather on with cute, young guys about how darling they are, without shame or embarrassment)

We were told there would be a snack, and were to pick a dessert and drink. I chose wine, because I was feeling very pampered, not thinking about my problems with motion sickness…

But you know what? I pounded non-drowsy, organic ginger tablets for nausea, and wore motion sickness bands. Along with the power of my will, and making myself find a focal point to not think about getting dizzy-

I RODE A ROLLER COASTER!!!!!

And the Banshee 3D virtual reality thing at Pandora!

Right afterwards, it was time for the "snack" they'd promised.

Which was a feast, much more than expected.

My stomach was ready to argue with me, but I would NOT let it.

Dang it, this was my special treat, and that wine was not going to drink itself.

I powered thru by sheer determination.

Having a ton of fun sure helped me prevent a lifetime of motion sickness from letting me from back out on some of the more twisty rides.

Am I going to be a regular on the merry go round with the kiddos?

Or hop on more roller coasters?

I seriously doubt that.

But I have decided that age 60, is a good time to not let myself be ruled by what might happen. If I'm offered a special treat, like a night of adventure at Disney, I am not going to turn it down because I'm afraid of a little motion sickness. (well, typically a lot, but it can be overcome if you try hard enough).

At 60, I know life ahead of me is shorter than what is behind me. I'm going to make the most of the rest of it.

I'm going to grab onto the fun I find out there and hang on tightly!

And look for hidden magic, or unexpected joy in every corner. (I'm always excited to find "Hidden Mickeys" at the parks)

I might be a Grammy, all cozy in her cottage, but I'm not ready to be old.

Thank you, Terry, for not only, a magnificent, and generous trip, but a chance to get out of my comfort zone, and fly through Pandora on a winged beast!!

Did I mention that I feel blessed?

MORE from the florida trip??? Yep, I was blessed!