First things first!

While my posts may not have made it clear, 2025 was a wild ride, but we survived!

Now, onto 2026?

Oh, we’re starting this year with style. And by style, I mean TWO cruises. Yes, TWO. Not quite back-to-back, but I’ll be sending 8 days on two different ships.

First up is Utopia of the Seas, which was technically hubby’s Father’s Day gift… but let’s be honest, that was also a gift to me. I mean, nothing says “Happy Father’s Day” like me lounging on deck sipping a Lava Flow, right?

Hubby and I have been dreaming about sailing on Utopia since before she even hit the water, and now it’s happening!

Just three days after I get home (long enough upack, do laundry and pack again), I’ll be jetting off to Miami for a girls’ cruise on Freedom of the Seas. Just me, my BFF, her girls (one of her girls is our travel agent) and a couple others for four-nights of adventure. My first cruise without the family and the longest I’ve ever been away from the kids at one time. I can’t wait!!!!

Two cruises! Two ships I’ve never sailed on before!! This is starting the year right!!!

Santa left me a surprise under the tree this year: tickets to see Rob Thomas in concert. And to keep things interesting, he gave me tickets for another concert – Kelly Clarkson in Vegas. Vegas in July? Perfect! Nothing says “fun” like melting into the sidewalk while holding a yard-long margarita. Although who am I kidding, I’ll be staying cool in a casino when not at the concert.

When I’m not cruising or singing along at concerts, I’ll be planning our garden (because apparently plants don’t grow themselves—rude). The kids will be busy with theater, dance recitals, gymnastics, voice lessons, music class, college and work schedules. Hubby’s work travel is ramping up, and I’ll be juggling homeschooling, cooking, cleaning, and maybe hosting a few gatherings—because why not add more chaos? Oh, and I’ll be diving deeper into Ancestry.com to learn more about my ancestors’ journey from Ireland and the U.K. to the U.S. Spoiler alert: I expect drama and questionable fashion choices.

Here’s to a year of cruises, concerts, chaos, and maybe a little gardening.

Buckle up, 2026—it’s going to be a ride!