Alas, the New Year has arrived, and so far, it’s feeling remarkably similar to its counterpart, especially when it comes to life during a pandemic. So, yes, we’re still wearing masks (so done with them), dealing with yet another variant and hopefully getting our boosters (I got mine yesterday). It’s shocking, and I can’t believe we’re still here. I’m exhausted just thinking about it. So, as I’m sure most of you are too, can we pleeease be done with this?!

Making Plans

With that in mind, the holidays were a whirlwind, especially after just completing a huge renovation project (stay tuned for my post). But, in all honesty, it was too much! At one point, I was cleaning drywall dust from inside my new kitchen cabinets and decorating for Christmas at the same time. Crazy! So yes, it all finally came together, and the holidays were lovely, even while I was sick (see my previous post). But it’s the same old, same old, and every year, I say the same thing: “Next Christmas, we’re going away.” I sound like a broken record, and I think it’s time to change things up a bit.

Naturally, there’s only one destination (ok, there are a few) at the moment where I can imagine spending Christmas, and that would be Paris. Hands down! But you knew that already. Can you imagine how beautiful it would be that time of year? Be still my heart. Paris is gorgeous year-round, but it would be an entirely different experience during the Christmas holidays. Magical comes to mind.

So, in an effort to keep my sanity (and call my bluff), I took the task to heart. I’m doing this! I researched several popular rental agencies, Airbnb, Vrbo and finally found our home away for the holidays through Perfectly Paris. I booked Apt Lafayette, an adorable two-bedroom “pied à terre” in the 10th arrondissement. Yes! Even though it’s a year away, I’m super excited, AND it gives us all something to look forward to.

Wheels Up

Remember that fantastic once-in-a-lifetime, two-month trip to Italy my guy and I cancelled waaay back in March 2020 due to Covid? Well, it’s back on! We booked our dream vacation through Emma Villas, but after cancelling, there was a concern we would never see our money again. Yes, our trip was “PAID IN FULL,” and Italy and the world were in lockdown. Also, travelling during a pandemic is new territory for everyone. Thankfully, Emma Villas came through, issuing us a credit to come back someday soon. So you can imagine how relieved we are to be going finally.

So technically, it’s like a free vacation!

Finding our flights during a seat sale was too good to pass up. My guy and I agreed, Book’em, Dano! With that, we are ready, armed with passports, vaccine passports and boosters. Nothing is stopping us from boarding that plane! RIGHT?!

So, yes, we’re finally off on our Italian adventure late this Spring. I am thrilled to be going, and it has been a long time coming. I can’t wait to wipe the dust off those travel books and start making notes on all the fabulous places to explore, eat delicious pasta and drink wine, of course! So, our Italian dream vacation will be a reality soon.

Planning something locally

Savary Island is our home away from home and has become our happy place. We’ve come to love our trips up the Sunshine Coast. In this case, it’s all about the journey and adapting a fun routine, which we’ve nailed down to the egg sandwiches on the ferry.

The cabin has become our passion project. There’s usually a long to-do list, but we also love spending time walking the beach or simply doing nothing. With that, our calendar is pencilled in for a quick trip in the Spring and two glorious weeks in the Summer. If we’re lucky, the weather will be beautifully sunny and warm, perfect for gardening and sitting on our deck making more plans.

What are you looking forward to?

Photos: Apt LaFayette