Journeys With Jani

Blessed Beyond Measure: My Daddy, My Constant

June 15, 2025

The Sitcom Called “Mary Jane”

Not everyone gets to say they’re blessed to still have their daddy.

But I do.

And not just any daddy—a real one. The kind who prays over you when you’re falling apart, who says just the right thing when your world feels upside down, and who somehow, even with the weight of the world on his back, always makes you feel like everything’s gonna be okay.

Look, I’ve never called my daddy my best friend. That’s not really his lane—and he’d probably side-eye the thought of it anyway. Daddy’s aren’t supposed to be your “bestie.” They’re supposed to be your anchor. The voice of reason. The steady hand you can count on to wrap you in truth, in strength, and in prayer—even when you don’t ask for it.

In 1983, my world cracked wide open. My daddy went to prison.

And he stayed there for 28 years.

Now I didn’t do what some might expect a “good daughter” to do. I didn’t write every week. I didn’t beg the parole board for mercy. I didn’t make regular visits. My sister did those things—and I will always honor her for that. Me? I was just out here trying to be a normal teenager. A young adult. I was trying to survive my own chaos, and that wasn’t exactly easy.

But I never gave up on him.

Not once.

I prayed for him. I prayed for his safety, his heart, and his redemption. I asked God to bring him home when the time was right. And through it all, I never once felt shame. Never once tried to hide who I belonged to. In fact, I carried his name with pride.

I am the daughter of Allan Aylsworth.

And I’ve always been proud to be that girl.

When he came home after nearly three decades, we didn’t need a grand reset—we just picked up. Life had grown us both. We weren’t the same people, but we were still daddy and daughter. Stronger. Softer. Grateful.

Today, he is the kind of man who holds the whole room in peace when he walks in. The kind of grandfather who lights up around his great-grandbabies. The kind of man who doesn’t waste words, but when he says, “I’m praying for you,” you feel that prayer down to your bones.

So yes, I am blessed.

Not in a shallow, bumper-sticker kind of way—

but in a deep, soul-honest, “God, thank You for him” kind of way.

If you’ve got a daddy like mine, hold tight.

And if you don’t, be the kind of steady someone else can look up to.

Because love like this changes everything.

Thank you, Daddy—for never letting go of who you are.

For making me proud to carry your name.

And for being my constant, even in the hardest of chapters.

No comments on Blessed Beyond Measure: My Daddy, My Constant
Peaceful Protest Isn’t a Sin, But Hipocrisy Might Be

June 14, 2025

Eat, Pray, Love

This morning, I stumbled across a Facebook post from our local radio station showing photos of a peaceful protest happening right here in Cartersville. Just a small group of folks standing on a corner, holding signs, sharing what they believe.

They weren’t blocking traffic.

They weren’t shouting or rioting.

They weren’t setting anything on fire.

They were simply exercising the right we all have in this country—to speak freely and peacefully assemble. You know… that little gem from the First Amendment?

But let me tell you what nearly knocked the wind out of me:

The comments.

Comment after comment from people I know—folks who’ve smiled at me in Kroger, sat next to me in church, and posted countless scriptures and inspirational quotes about kindness and grace. Suddenly, they were online spewing hate and judgment, and all because a few people dared to stand quietly with a sign in their hand.

And the wildest part? Some of these same folks tossed Jesus into their rants like He’d high-five their behavior.

Spoiler alert: He wouldn’t.

Now don’t twist what I’m saying. I’ve made it clear that I don’t support riots, destruction, or the circus that so often erupts under the banner of “protest.” That’s not what happened here. This was a group of Cartersville citizens standing on the sidewalk. Peacefully. Respectfully. Calmly.

Do I agree with everything they believe?

Nope.

Do I think our government is overreaching the way they do?

Also no.

But you know what?

That’s not the point.

The point is—they have the right to express their opinion, just like you do. And if seeing them makes your blood pressure spike, you’ve got options. Go stand on the opposite corner. Hold up your own sign. That’s how freedom works.

But don’t you dare show up online, Bible in hand, spewing hate disguised as “righteousness.” Don’t weaponize the Gospel to shame your neighbor. Jesus didn’t do that, and you shouldn’t either.

Y’all talk a big game about grace and love, but the minute someone expresses a belief that makes you uncomfortable, out comes the judgment like it’s your spiritual superpower.

If you truly want to live out what that Good Book says, maybe start by leading with love instead of lashing out. Because your Facebook comment might

Because your Facebook comment might be the only “Jesus” someone sees today. And honey, if He’s coming across as smug, petty, and downright cruel—you might need to reread that red-letter edition.

See, Jesus didn’t cancel people.

He didn’t roll His eyes at them from across the marketplace or mock them under passive-aggressive posts.

He walked toward them. He sat with the ones society wrote off. He welcomed questions and doubters and even those with signs in their hands and anger in their hearts.

So imagine how He’d feel watching His name get dragged into internet comment sections full of sarcasm and shame. I have a feeling He’d flip more than just a few tables.

Here’s the deal: You can love your country and disagree with your neighbor at the same time. You can feel uncomfortable with someone’s message and still choose to act with grace. And you can absolutely scroll past something you don’t like without dropping a hateful comment that makes Jesus cringe.

We don’t have to agree on everything. Lord knows we won’t. But if we claim to be people of faith—if we’re gonna slap the “Christian” label on our Facebook bios and car bumpers—then we better be ready to back it up with how we treat people, especially when we disagree.

Because love isn’t loud and mean.

Love doesn’t show up in the comments section with a Bible verse and a dagger.

Love is patient. Love is kind.

(And if those words sound familiar, it’s because they didn’t come from a Hallmark card. That’s straight Scripture, friend.)

So the next time someone chooses to stand up and speak out peacefully—whether or not it aligns with your beliefs—maybe pause before jumping to judgment. Maybe try humility instead of hostility. Maybe try remembering that one day you might be the one on that corner, needing a little grace.

Because at the end of the day, I’ll say it again: Peaceful protest is not a sin. But hypocrisy? That might be.

Mic drop: Jesus didn’t come to shut people up—He came to set people free.

No comments on Peaceful Protest Isn’t a Sin, But Hipocrisy Might Be
The United States Marine Corps…

June 12, 2025

Eat, Pray, Love

Let me go ahead and start with a disclaimer before someone gets their undies in a freedom-hating twist—yes, I am the proud mom of a United States Marine. But this ain’t about him. This is about them. The Marines. The few. The proud. The ones you do not want to square up against unless you’re looking to take your last breath humming the Star-Spangled Banner.

You may have read my recent blog where I reminded folks of the difference between a peaceful protest and domestic terrorism (spoiler alert: destroying property and blocking emergency roads ain’t patriotism—it’s chaos with a hashtag). That little truth nugget got some folks all hot and bothered, which got me thinking… do people even understand what real strength and service look like anymore?

Let’s fix that.

Who Are the Marines?

The Marine Corps isn’t a job. It isn’t a backup plan. And it sure as hell isn’t a TikTok trend.

It’s a calling. A life. A brotherhood and sisterhood forged in fire, grit, sweat, and a whole lotta discipline.

These men and women are trained to be the first in, the last out, and the ones who stare chaos straight in the face and say, “Not today, Satan.”

And you better believe they have the history to back it up. The Marine Corps was born in 1775… in a tavern. So when people say Marines are a different breed—they mean it. These are the ones who’ll fight with whatever’s in their hands, even if it’s just a broken barstool and a fistful of freedom.

What Do They Do?

Short answer? Whatever the hell is necessary.

Secure embassies all over the world? ✔️ Humanitarian aid and disaster relief? ✔️ Combat operations in places most people can’t pronounce? ✔️ Keep your bacon safe while you debate pineapple pizza on Facebook? ✔️✔️✔️

They run toward the danger when others run away. They live on grit, caffeine, and the constant drive to outwork, outfight, and outperform every enemy, every time.

And they do it all after waking up at 0400, running five miles, and folding their bed into tighter corners than your fitted sheet has ever dreamed of.

Now Let’s Talk About The Oath

Because it’s not just about doing push-ups and yelling “Oorah.”

Every Marine—every service member—raises their right hand and swears the following oath:

“I, [name], do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic;

that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;

and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me,

according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.”

Let me just go ahead and bold this for the folks scrolling while sipping their overpriced oat milk lattes:

“Against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”

That is not a cute tagline. That is a sacred vow. These warriors don’t get to pick the easy fights. They don’t clock out when things get messy. They are sworn to protect our country even if the threat is from within.

Let that marinate.

Why You Don’t Mess With Them

Because they’re not out here trying to go viral.

They’re out here defending your right to speak freely, even when what you’re saying is just plain dumb.

You don’t mess with a Marine because they’ve been trained—and then trained again—to overcome, adapt, and win. They fight with purpose. With heart. With precision. Not just for the flag, but for every single right that flag represents.

So if you ever feel tempted to question their mission, or worse—disrespect their sacrifice—just know that freedom isn’t free. It’s paid for in sweat, blood, time away from family, and sometimes lives.

And Marines?

They never send the bill.

They just keep showing up.

Final Thoughts from Your Friendly Travel Advisor With a Patriotic Spine

I might be sarcastic. I might be southern. I might even talk a little smack here and there.

But don’t mistake my sass for softness—because when it comes to this country, I stand tall.

We are free because brave people swore an oath to keep it that way.

And if you’re ever in doubt about what patriotism looks like, don’t look at the loudest protestor or the flashiest influencer. Look for the silent one standing at attention, ready for whatever comes next.

That’s a Marine.

And may God bless every last one of them.

XOXO, Jani

1 comment on The United States Marine Corps…
The Sweet Life of Gen X: Let’s Talk About It…

June 12, 2025

The Sitcom Called “Mary Jane”

There was a time when the best part of the corner gas station wasn’t the price of gas (though let’s all take a moment of silence for 79 cents a gallon). It was the candy aisle. The real candy aisle. Before “organic” was a thing and before your dentist started charging for trauma therapy. I’m talking about the 70s and 80s candy scene—back when sugar wasn’t the enemy, it was the main food group.

Let’s take a walk down memory lane, shall we?

🍬 Wax Lips & Bottles: Why Tho?

We were out here chewing on wax like it was a snack. Wax lips, wax bottles with that syrupy “juice” inside. Nobody questioned it. You just bit the top off like a gremlin and sucked out two drops of radioactive-colored sugar water. Then? You chewed the wax. Like gum. Or like a Crayola candle. We didn’t even care.

🍭 Fun Dip: Basically Edible Crack

Let me get this straight: we paid money for a white stick made of compressed sugar so we could dip it into… more sugar. And if we were real professionals, we ate the stick first and finger-dipped the rest. Sticky fingers and blue tongues were badges of honor. Moms today would pass out.

🍫 Candy Cigarettes: A Whole Era

Yes, we were literally out here pretending to smoke. Just puffin’ away on a candy stick like we were in a biker gang. No helmet, riding on the handlebars of someone else’s banana seat bike, and “smoking” a fake Marlboro. Honestly? Iconic.

🌈 Now & Laters: The Original Dental Workouts

You could lose a baby tooth and a friendship trying to chew a Now & Later. And don’t act like you didn’t shove three in at once. The name said it all—eat some now, and get it out of your molars… later.

😛 Pop Rocks: The Snack That Fought Back

It crackled. It popped. It fizzed. And someone always lied and said if you ate Pop Rocks and drank a Coke, your stomach would explode. We all tried it anyway. That’s how committed we were to candy chaos.

🍓 Strawberry Bon Bons: Every Granny Had These

Why did every southern grandmother have a purse full of these? You’d dig for gum and come out with a melted Bon Bon and three tissues. And we ate them! With lint and everything. Honestly, they slapped.

🍋 Lemonheads, Fireballs & Atomic Warheads: Painfully Delicious

Who remembers crying from the first 3 seconds of a Fireball? Or sucking the enamel clean off your teeth with a Warhead? We were into suffering for our sweets. And we liked it.

🍫 Reggie Bars, Marathon Bars & That Weird Chunky Thing

Reggie Bars tasted like peanut butter and baseball dreams. Marathon Bars were braided caramel masterpieces—extinct now, like common sense. And the Chunky bar? Who the hell thought raisins and peanuts belonged in the same square of chocolate? Still ate it. Still would.

💥 Garbage Pail Kids Gum

You bought it for the grotesque cards, but the gum? One bite and it disintegrated into a dusty shard of regret. And still—we chewed it. Because branding was everything.

The Bottom Line…

Today’s kids have freeze-dried gummy worms and candy shaped like sushi. They’ll never know the thrill of trading for a Jolly Rancher stick at recess or hiding a Ring Pop in your desk during math. And I don’t know if that makes me sad or smug.

But what I do know is this:

We were wild. We were sticky. We were jacked up on sugar and unsupervised.

And somehow, we survived.

Sweet, sweet memories.

XOXO, Jani

No comments on The Sweet Life of Gen X: Let’s Talk About It…
The Power—and the Limits—of Protest

June 10, 2025

Eat, Pray, Love

There’s something deeply American about protest. It’s woven into the fabric of our beginnings—Boston tea parties, marches for women’s votes, sit-ins at segregated lunch counters, and the long, painful road of civil rights movements. And I’m gonna say this clearly: I believe in the right to protest. I believe in raising your voice. I believe in speaking truth to power. It’s one of the freedoms that sets us apart—and we should never take that for granted.

But somewhere along the way, the line between protest and chaos has started to blur.

Let me say this with all the love and all the concern I carry for this country I call home: Blocking traffic on major interstates isn’t brave. Destroying businesses in your own community doesn’t bring justice. It brings fear. It brings destruction. And it undermines the very cause you’re trying to support.

We’ve lost sight, I think, of what real protest looks like. Real protest is powerful not because it’s loud, but because it’s principled. It’s organized, focused, peaceful—and stubborn in the best way. You don’t need to burn it down to be heard.

Right now, our country feels like it’s holding its breath. Emotions are high. People are angry, scared, exhausted. And I get it—we are living in a wild time. But let’s be honest—we’ve been here before. History is full of storms. And every single time, it’s the people who chose to rise above the chaos, not sink into it, who shaped the next chapter.

So I say this with the heart of someone who loves freedom, and respects anyone bold enough to fight for what they believe in: fight with dignity. Protest with purpose. March with your head high and your eyes set on a better future.

Let the message be loud, but let the method be just.

Because when the dust settles—and it always does—the world will remember how you made your mark.

XOXO, Jani

No comments on The Power—and the Limits—of Protest
5 Things to Know About MS: We’re Not All the Same, But We Do Understand Each Other

June 8, 2025

Eat, Pray, Love, The Sitcom Called “Mary Jane”

There’s a graphic I came across the other day that made me stop scrolling. Simple, to the point, and accurate. It read:

“5 Things to Know About Multiple Sclerosis.”

Here’s the thing: MS doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all brochure. It doesn’t play fair, and it doesn’t follow a predictable script. And the hardest part? Most people don’t really get it unless they live it—or love someone who does.

So let’s break down what that image said, and I’ll sprinkle in some real-life truth from someone who’s been walking (sometimes limping, sometimes resting, sometimes fighting) this road right at fifteen years.

1. There is no known cure.

This isn’t a flu. You don’t get to “wait it out.” You manage it. You adapt. You cry sometimes, and then you get up and do what you can. There are treatments, and for some, they work wonders. For others, it’s a guessing game of meds and side effects. But cured? No. Not yet.

2. You can’t catch it from someone else.

This isn’t contagious—at least not in the way people think. But what is contagious? Fatigue. Frustration. The feeling of being dismissed. And unfortunately, judgment. We hear things like “but you don’t look sick” or “you were fine yesterday.” Honey, I can look like a million bucks and feel like roadkill at the same time.

3. Symptoms change frequently depending on nerves affected.

MS is the queen of inconsistency. One day I’m fine. The next, my legs feel like they’re walking through concrete and my brain is buffering like a bad internet connection. Tingling, vision problems, pain, exhaustion—pick a symptom, any symptom. MS throws darts and doesn’t care where they land.

4. Not everyone will need a wheelchair.

This one’s big. When people think of MS, they often jump straight to wheelchairs and canes. And yes, mobility aids are a lifeline for many. But others (like me, most days) are still upright, walking, driving, and doing life. Doesn’t mean we’re not struggling. Some disabilities are visible. Others wear good lipstick and keep showing up anyway.

5. Each person’s MS will be different… yet similar.

This is the heart of it. No two people’s MS stories are the same—but talk to someone else with this diagnosis and you’ll both nod a lot. We may have different symptoms, different triggers, different paths—but the emotional toll? The exhaustion, the constant adjustments, the fear of what comes next? Yeah, that part feels universal.

So what can you do?

Be kind. Be patient. Believe people when they tell you what they’re going through—even if they look fine. MS is a rollercoaster we didn’t buy tickets for, and we’re just doing our best to hold on some days.

If you love someone with MS, don’t try to fix them. Just love them. Walk beside them. Carry the load when you can. Let them rest without guilt and speak without filters. And for heaven’s sake, bring snacks. (Trust me on that one.)

And if you have MS: you are not alone. Even on the days when it feels like the whole world doesn’t get it, I promise—some of us do.

Stay steady, warriors.

XOXO, Jani

No comments on 5 Things to Know About MS: We’re Not All the Same, But We Do Understand Each Other
One Compliment a Day… Lets Talk About It

June 8, 2025

Eat, Pray, Love, The Sitcom Called “Mary Jane”

Let me ask you something.

When’s the last time you told someone they were doing a good job?

That they looked beautiful?

That you noticed how hard they’ve been trying?

Now, when’s the last time you thought it…

but didn’t say a word?

We all do it. We think kind thoughts about people—friends, coworkers, family, even strangers in line at Target—but we keep it locked inside our heads.

And that’s a shame, because this world could use a little more spoken kindness and a little less side-eye and snark.

So here’s what I’m proposing:

Let’s make it a personal challenge.

One person.

One compliment.

Every day.

Write it down in your journal.

It doesn’t have to be groundbreaking.

Maybe you admire someone’s work ethic.

Maybe they’ve lost weight.

Maybe they just have the kind of energy that makes people feel safe and seen.

Tell them.

Tell them even if it feels awkward.

Tell them especially if you think

“they probably already know.”

Because odds are… they don’t.

Kindness doesn’t cost a thing—

but withholding it might.

In a world where people are quick to judge, quick to criticize, and quick to scroll on by, let’s slow it down and be intentional. Let’s build people up instead of tearing them down. And yes, I’m even talking about the gal at the gas station with the sparkly nails.

Compliment those too.

Start today. Reach out to someone you love—or someone you barely know—and say,

“Hey, just wanted to tell you… you matter.”

Let’s lift people up on purpose. Let’s be the reason someone smiles today.

So tell me—who are you reaching out to first?

XOXO, Jani

No comments on One Compliment a Day… Lets Talk About It
Disneyland vs. Disney World: Same Magic, Different Map

June 7, 2025

Travel Advice

So you’re dreaming of churros, castle selfies, and hugging Mickey—but now you’ve hit the fork in the road: Disneyland or Disney World? Same Mouse, two very different vacations. Let’s break it down, shall we?

🏰 Location & Size

Disneyland Located in Anaheim, California Opened in 1955 Home to 2 parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Compact, walkable, and packed with nostalgia (Walt himself walked those grounds)

Disney World Located in Orlando, Florida Opened in 1971 Massive resort with 4 parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom Spans 25,000 acres (yep—basically its own zip code)

Bottom line: If you’re short on time or have younger kids, Disneyland is easier to navigate. If you’re ready for a full-on theme park marathon, Disney World is your beast.

💰 Pricing: What’s This Gonna Cost Me?

Let’s talk dollars, because the magic ain’t cheap—but it can be worth it!

🎟️ Ticket Pricing (as of 2025 estimates)

Disneyland (2 Parks) 1-Day, 1-Park Ticket: $119–$179

Park Hopper Add-On: + $65

3-Day Park Hopper: Around $435–$525 per person

Disney World (4 Parks) 1-Day, 1-Park Ticket: $124–$189 Park Hopper

Add-On: + $75 3-Day Park Hopper: Around $480–$570 per person

Pro Tip: Both parks use dynamic pricing, meaning holidays and weekends cost more. Planning ahead with a Travel Advisor (like yours truly) can save you some serious coin and stress.

🛏️ Hotels & Resorts

Disneyland has 3 official Disney hotels and several nearby “Good Neighbor” options within walking distance.

Disney World has more than 25 themed resorts ranging from budget-friendly to “did I just move into Cinderella’s castle?!”

Cost example for a family of 4 (3 nights):

Disneyland Hotel: $2,000+ Disney’s Pop Century (Orlando Value Resort): $900–$1,200

Note: Staying on-property in Disney World also gives you perks like early park entry and free transportation across the massive resort.

🍔 Food & Dining Plans

Disneyland has fewer table-service restaurants, but solid quick-service options (hello, Ronto Wraps and churros).

Disney World offers the Disney Dining Plan (returning in 2025) and hundreds of restaurant options—including EPCOT’s world showcase cuisine tour.

🏃‍♀️ Pace & Planning

Disneyland is much more go-with-the-flow. You can plan it with minimal stress (and even wing it a little).

Disney World takes planning. Dining reservations open 60 days out. Park reservations, Genie+, Lightning Lanes… it’s a whole system.

If you’re overwhelmed, don’t worry—I eat park maps for breakfast. That’s where I come in. 🙋‍♀️

⚡️Lightning Lane & Strategy

Both parks now use the Lightening Lane system to skip lines (RIP Genie & FastPass). Pricing varies by date and park.

You can also purchase Individual Lightning Lanes for select rides separately (hi, Rise of the Resistance).

🎉 Vibe Check

Disneyland: Nostalgic, local vibe. You’ll see lots of SoCal families and AP holders who just popped in after school.

Disney World: Full-blown vacation mode. Guests come from all over the world. You’ll see matching shirts, itinerary binders, and kids asleep in strollers by 3 p.m.

✨ Final Thoughts

So which one should you choose?

If you’ve got littles, limited time, or love old-school Disney—Disneyland might be your match. If you’re going big, want to fully immerse yourself in the magic, or have a bucket list of rides and resorts—Disney World is where it’s at.

Either way, I’ve got you. Let me plan the whole shebang—hotels, tickets, transportation, dining, character breakfasts, stroller rentals—you name it. You just show up and soak in the magic.

🎢 Ready to make your Disney dreams real?

📞 Call 770-334-2256

📱 Request a complimentary quote- http://www.taketimetotravelga.com/quote/

👑 Because when it comes to Disney, you don’t wing it—you plan it with a pro! 🧚🏻

No comments on Disneyland vs. Disney World: Same Magic, Different Map
Download the App: Why Every Traveler Needs Their Airline’s App

June 7, 2025

Travel Advice

Let me give it to you straight, friend: if you’re still flying the friendly skies without your airline’s app on your phone, you’re basically traveling like it’s 2007. And I mean that with love. You don’t need to be tech-savvy or app-happy to benefit from this travel game-changer. You just need a smartphone and a smidge of common sense (and if you’ve got a travel advisor like me, well—you already passed the smart test).

Here’s why you should always, always download your airline’s app before takeoff:

✈️ 1. Mobile Boarding Pass = One Less Thing to Lose

Raise your hand if you’ve ever been the person frantically digging through your bag for that crumpled boarding pass while the gate agent stares you down. No judgment. But with the app? Boom—boarding pass is right there on your phone. Glorious.

🔔 2. Real-Time Flight Updates

Delays. Gate changes. Upgrades (hallelujah!). The app tells you before the gate agent even picks up the mic. No more relying on that outdated airport screen or crossing your fingers that your flight’s still on time. You’ll know—because the app will buzz your pocket with the latest info.

💺 3. Seat Changes Without the Wait

Need to swap your seat because the one you picked is practically in the cargo hold? Use the app. You can view available seats and make changes faster than standing in line at the gate behind the guy asking twenty questions about carry-on policy.

🧳 4. Baggage Tracking Like a Pro

If your airline offers bag tracking (and many do), the app lets you follow your suitcase’s journey like a hawk. No more wondering if your bag made it. You’ll know the second it hits the tarmac—or sadly doesn’t.

💳 5. Easy Access to Travel Credits, Status, and Upgrades

Frequent flyer? Got travel credits or miles? Want to see how far you are from that free upgrade or check how many points are burning a hole in your account? It’s all in the app. No guessing. No digging.

🧼 6. Less Touch, More Travel

Let’s be honest—less contact with kiosks and counters is still a good thing. The app lets you check in, show ID, get boarding passes, and in some cases, even order food. Travel smarter, not grimier.

💡 Jani’s Bonus Pro Tip:

Download it before you get to the airport. Airport Wi-Fi is slower than molasses on a cold day and you’ll be standing there watching that spinning wheel while everyone else walks on the plane. Ain’t nobody got time for that.

So next time you’re packing up for takeoff, make sure that airline app is already downloaded and logged in. Trust me, future-you—tired, hungry, and stuck at Gate C22—will be real grateful.

Need help navigating your next trip?

You know where to find me—Take Time To Travel is just a message away. And yes, I do know which airlines have the best snacks. 😉

XOXO, Jani

Your Travel Advisor & App Advocate Extraordinaire w/ Take Time To Travel

No comments on Download the App: Why Every Traveler Needs Their Airline’s App
Buc-ee’s: America’s Favorite (or Most Divisive) Pit Stop—Let’s Talk About It…

June 5, 2025

The Sitcom Called “Mary Jane”, Travel Advice

By Jani, your travel-lovin’, snack-scarfin’, road warrior, southern fried belle!

Let me just say this upfront: I am a Buc-ee’s fan. Like, full-blown, fangirl, skip-the-gas-station-down-the-road-and-hold-it-till-Buc-ee’s kind of fan. And I make no apologies for it.

Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Really? A gas station?” Oh, this ain’t your average pit stop with sticky bathroom floors and a questionable hot dog on rollers that’s been there since the Nixon administration. Buc-ee’s is Texas-sized magic. It’s a cultural phenomenon. It’s a clean-bathroom, brisket-on-the-board, Beaver-Nuggets-in-my-bag kind of place that feels like home… if home smelled like smoked meats and cinnamon-glazed pecans (oh those pecans).

But here’s the kicker: everything I adore about Buc-ee’s is the exact stuff other people seem to hate.

Let’s break this down, shall we?

What I Love About Buc-ee’s:

The Bathrooms: You could do a trust fall into those stalls and land on tile cleaner than your kitchen floor.

The Snacks: Beaver Nuggets. Jerky walls. Homemade fudge. They’ve got more snack options than a Cracker Barrel on Christmas Eve. The Merch: Where else can you get a “Don’t Mess with Texas” beach towel, a 64oz insulated tumbler, and a cast iron skillet all in one go? The Vibes: Country music, hot food, and people-watching galore. It’s like a redneck-themed amusement park without the height requirements.

The One Thing I Don’t Love: The Parking Lot

Listen, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it—Buc-ee’s parking lots are the Wild West. It’s like a demolition derby meets NASCAR meets a caffeine-fueled mom van with three screaming toddlers and a loose sippy cup rolling under the seat. And I hate it.

But—and this is a big Texas-sized but—with a little patience and some strategic parking lot ninja skills, you can survive it. And trust me: once you finally squeeze into that spot and make your way inside? Oh baby, it’s worth every near-fender-bender moment. Because on the other side of that asphalt war zone is pure joy in the form of warm brisket sandwiches and sparkling-clean stalls.

What the Haters Say:

“It’s too much.” — Oh, sorry Karen. Would you prefer the rundown gas station where the slushie machine hasn’t worked since 2007?

“It’s overwhelming.” — Life’s overwhelming, sweetheart. Get the brisket sandwich and push through.

“The merch is tacky.” — So am I, sometimes. We all contain multitudes.

“It’s just a glorified gas station.” — And I’m just a girl, standing in front of the snack wall, asking it to love me.

I’m seriously considering planning an entire Buc-ee’s-themed road trip. I could map out all the locations like it’s a patriotic pilgrimage—Georgia to Texas to Florida to Kentucky. Maybe I’ll even rank them based on their bathrooms, brisket-to-bun ratio, and how aggressive the guy in the Ford F-250 was pulling into pump #28 …wait, that’s mu husband. Oops. Could be a whole blog series. Maybe even a sticker for my laptop that says “I brake for beavers.”

Let’s be real: Buc-ee’s isn’t for everyone. But then again, neither am I. And if loving a gas station that doubles as a snack wonderland, souvenir superstore, and restroom utopia is wrong? Then baby, I don’t wanna be right.

So the next time you see that giant cartoon beaver smiling down from the highway sign, do yourself a favor—exit now. Get the nuggs. Get the jerky. Get the tee. Embrace the snacks. Brave the parking lot.

XOXO, Jani

Living that Beaver Believer life, one pit stop at a time.

1 comment on Buc-ee’s: America’s Favorite (or Most Divisive) Pit Stop—Let’s Talk About It…