Let me paint y’all a picture: it’s a peaceful Sunday just after my granddaughter’s birthday party, and we opt for dinner. I decide to treat this body (that I love, even if it betrays me) to a hearty little something from Los Mesquites.
I ordered the Cubana plate. Because why not? Life is short, pants are stretchy, and queso is eternal.
But somewhere between the beans, the rice, the mountain of meat, and what can only be described as molten green lava disguised as tomatillo sauce, I may have made a life-altering decision. That sauce was hotter than a NYC Fireman’s Calendar in July—but did I stop?
Of course not.
I’m a Southern woman. We eat with pride, not caution. I dabbed at my forehead like a dainty lady but kept right on goin’, because flavor triumphs over fear.
Well…
Fast forward to 2 a.m., and let’s just say things went sideways. Violently. Dramatically. Biblically. My stomach was audibly protesting like I had swallowed a marching band, and the rest of my body said, “Ma’am, we’re gonna need you near a bathroom at all times.”
Now, I’m not saying it’s that “bug that’s goin’ around” (even though everybody I know has had it, and their cousin’s dog too). No no, I’m just sayin’ maybe—maybe—that tomatillo sauce pulled me into spiritual warfare I was not prepared for.
I’ve been up and down all night like I was auditioning for a Pepto-Bismol commercial. One minute I’m freezing, next I’m sweating like a sinner in Sunday school. I’ve made dramatic promises to the Lord. I’ve googled “can you overdose on ginger ale?” And I’ve officially lost count of how many times I’ve told my cat, “If I don’t make it, tell the dogs I love them.”
But still. I do not have the stomach virus. I refuse to give it that kind of power.
I have… a culinary consequence.
So learn from me, sweet friends:
• If you feel brave enough to go for the extra-hot tomatillo sauce… maybe have a game plan.
• Don’t trust a meal that looks too beautiful and smells like heaven—it might be plotting against you.
• And if you wake up at 2 a.m. with your stomach doing gymnastics? Just know you are not alone. I’m here. In my bathroom. Sending love and cautionary tales.
With queasy love, light, and a whole lot of Liquid IV,
XOXO, Jani (your fire-breathed, lesson-learned, still-not-technically-sick travel advisor)
There’s something magical about packing a bag and heading somewhere new, but let’s be honest—sometimes we move so fast from one destination to the next that we forget why we’re traveling in the first place. I’ve planned countless trips over the years, and the ones that stick with people the most aren’t always the most extravagant or exotic—they’re the ones that were planned with intention.
So let’s talk about what it really means to travel with intention, and how it can transform the way you see the world—and yourself.
1. Start with a Purpose
Whether you’re jetting off to Europe or sneaking away to a cabin in the mountains, ask yourself: What do I want to gain from this trip? Rest? Reconnection? Adventure? Culture?
When we get clear on our “why,” we stop collecting passport stamps like trophies and start collecting experiences that feed our soul.
2. “Why So Many Questions?” (AKA: Help Me Help You)
Listen—I know it might feel like I’m grilling you when we first chat. “Why this destination?” “What kind of vibe are you looking for?” “Is this more about the food or the beach naps?” But there’s a reason I ask so many questions: I’m not just booking a trip—I’m building an experience that fits you.
And for those of you who say, “I don’t know where I want to go, I just need to get away!”—don’t worry, you’re my people. But even more reason for us to dig deep. Your answers help me match you with the right destination, the right pace, and the right kind of magic. Intentional travel starts with a real conversation.
3. Curate, Don’t Cram
Intentional travel doesn’t mean doing all the things. It means doing the right things for you. I always encourage my clients to leave room in their itineraries for the unexpected—a spontaneous wine tasting in Sonoma or a slow morning at a sidewalk café.
4. Make Connections, Not Just Reservations
Talk to the locals. Take a cooking class. Learn three phrases in the native language and actually use them. Those connections? They’re the real souvenirs.
5. Be Present, Not Perfect
The photo might be blurry. The train might be late. You might get caught in a rainstorm in the middle of a guided walking tour (true story). But those are the moments that make travel real—and remarkable.
6. Reflect When You Return
One of my new favorite things to ask clients when they get home is, “How did this trip change you?” Because the truth is—intentional travel sticks with you. It inspires gratitude, perspective, and sometimes, it even shifts your entire path.
Final Thoughts
At Take Time To Travel, we don’t just book trips. We craft journeys that matter. When you travel with intention, the destination is just the beginning. The real transformation happens within.
So next time you’re dreaming of getting away, let’s plan with purpose. Let’s create space for connection, clarity, and joy.
Ready to plan your next intentional escape? I’m here when you are.
Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel
The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal
Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.
There’s a moment in The Velveteen Rabbit—one of those children’s books that wasn’t really written just for children—where the Skin Horse lays it all out plain and simple. He tells the Rabbit what it means to become Real. Not just a toy. Not just something pretty or useful. Real.
And mercy, if that part doesn’t hit you right in the gut as a grown-up.
“Real isn’t how you are made… It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time… then you become Real.”
Y’all. That line takes me straight back to my childhood. A time that, if we’re being honest (and Lord knows I always am), was no picnic. My younger years were a whole mess of chaos, instability, and trying to survive things no child ought to experience. I learned early that people don’t always stick around. That not everyone is gentle with hearts. And that being tough wasn’t optional—it was necessary.
So when I read this part of the book, especially as a grown woman who’s done some livin’, it stops me cold.
“It doesn’t happen all at once… You become. It takes a long time.”
Whew. Ain’t that the truth?
See, I didn’t come into this world with a soft cushion of safety and love. I had to earn every ounce of peace I carry today. Becoming “Real” for me meant surviving the storm—and not just surviving, but finding a way to still love in the middle of it. To still let people in, even when my edges were sharp and I didn’t trust the ground under my feet.
It meant years of heartache, therapy, deep talks, ugly cries, and hard, hard healing. It meant letting my guard down enough for my friends—the one’s that give “Friends” a run for their money—to love me in the places I didn’t think deserved it. It meant watching my sons become men, knowing I did the best I could with what I had, and that somehow, grace filled in the gaps.
“Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby.”
Amen, Skin Horse. My joints creak. My hair ain’t what it used to be. Lord help me, some days I wake up and wonder if anything’s still where I left it. But I know I’m Real now. And you know what? That means everything.
Because being Real is not about perfection. It’s not about always having it together or being the prettiest package in the room. It’s about having lived. About having loved and been loved in return. It’s about showing up, even when you’re tired. Even when it hurts.
And the older I get, the more I realize this—Real people recognize Real. We find each other. We see past the worn edges and into the soul. And we don’t mind the scars, because we know what it took to earn them.
So if you’re out there, feeling like you’re falling apart or not enough, let me tell you something:
You are becoming.
Bit by bit.
Heartbreak by heartbreak.
Breakthrough by breakthrough.
One day you’ll look in the mirror, maybe a little more worn than you used to be, and realize… you’ve become Real.
And honey, ain’t nothing more beautiful than that.
Packing for a trip is a bit like playing Tetris—every item needs to fit just right, maximizing space without turning your suitcase into an overstuffed disaster. The military has mastered this art, packing efficiently for deployments and missions where every inch of space counts. So, let’s take a page from their playbook and learn how to pack strategically, travel light, and still have room for those must-have souvenirs!
Step 1: Choose the Right Luggage
Before you even start packing, pick the right bag. A lightweight, durable suitcase with compression straps and expandable sections is your best bet. If you’re a carry-on-only traveler (kudos to you!), make sure it meets airline size restrictions and has plenty of compartments for organization.
Step 2: The Military Fold (or Ranger Roll) Method
The military doesn’t just throw things into a duffel and hope for the best—they use precision folding techniques to maximize space and keep things wrinkle-free.
• The Ranger Roll: Roll each clothing item tightly into a compact bundle. Not only does this save space, but it also prevents creases.
• Bundle Packing: Layer clothes flat and wrap them around a central core (like a pouch of underwear and socks) to reduce wasted space.
• Compression Bags: These work wonders for bulkier items like sweaters or jackets.
Step 3: Pack by Priority & Purpose
Think of your suitcase like a well-organized supply kit. The military packs based on necessity, and so should you:
• Layer 1 (Bottom of Suitcase): Heaviest items like shoes (stuff them with socks or accessories to save space), toiletry bags, and any bulky outerwear.
• Layer 2 (Middle Section): Clothes rolled tightly or packed in cubes. Pack heavier fabrics toward the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Layer 3 (Top Section): Easy-access items like pajamas, a change of clothes, and travel essentials you’ll need right away.
Step 4: Utilize Every Nook & Cranny
• Shoes as Storage: Stuff socks, chargers, or small items inside.
• Hollow Spaces: Fit underwear, belts, or small items into the gaps between larger ones.
• Wear Your Bulkiest Items: If you’re bringing a heavy coat or boots, wear them on travel day instead of stuffing them in your bag.
Step 5: Leave Room for Souvenirs
A key packing mistake? Forgetting to leave space for all the goodies you’ll bring home. Here’s how to prepare:
• Pack an Empty Foldable Bag: A small, lightweight tote or duffel can be used as an extra carry-on for souvenirs.
• Use Expandable Luggage: Leave it zipped in its smaller form on the way there, then expand it if needed.
• Plan for Compression: If you’re bringing back clothes or soft goods, vacuum-seal bags can help make them fit.
Bonus: The One-Week Packing Rule
Military personnel pack efficiently for long stays, often sticking to the essentials. A good rule of thumb for any trip: pack for a week, no matter how long you’re going. Laundry services, mix-and-match outfits, and layering can make this strategy work for nearly any destination.
Final Thoughts
Packing smart means traveling light, staying organized, and having room for new treasures. Whether you’re headed to the beaches of the Caribbean, exploring the streets of Europe, or setting off on an African safari, mastering the art of luggage Tetris will make your journey smoother—and your return trip a whole lot easier.
Need help planning your next adventure? Let’s chat! At Take Time to Travel, we help you plan stress-free, unforgettable vacations—souvenirs and all.
Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel
The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal
Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.
The United States is an incredibly diverse country with something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re flying in and renting a car for an epic road trip or driving from home to discover hidden gems, there’s an adventure waiting for you. From coastal escapes to mountain retreats and vibrant cities to quiet small towns, the possibilities are endless. Let’s dive into some of the best U.S. travel routes that combine flights, road trips, and unforgettable experiences.
Florida: Miami to Key West – The Ultimate Coastal Drive
Start your journey by flying into Miami, a city known for its lively nightlife, stunning beaches, and delicious Cuban cuisine. Spend a day or two soaking up the sun on South Beach, exploring Little Havana, and enjoying rooftop cocktails with ocean views.
Then, pick up a rental car and head down the Overseas Highway (US-1) toward Key West. This iconic drive offers breathtaking ocean views as you cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Make a few stops along the way:
• Key Largo – Go snorkeling or take a glass-bottom boat tour in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
• Islamorada – Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant and visit the History of Diving Museum.
• Marathon – Check out the Dolphin Research Center or relax on Sombrero Beach.
• Big Pine Key – Spot the tiny Key deer at the National Key Deer Refuge.
Once you arrive in Key West, embrace the laid-back island vibe. Stroll down Duval Street, visit the Southernmost Point, and catch a sunset at Mallory Square.
California & the Pacific Northwest: San Diego to Oregon or Wine Country Adventures
California’s coastline offers some of the most scenic drives in the country. Depending on your travel style, you can either:
1. Fly into San Diego and drive up Highway 1, stopping in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and Monterey, before reaching San Francisco and continuing into Oregon.
2. Fly into San Francisco, explore the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz, then head north to Sonoma and Napa Valley for wine tasting. Extend your trip by driving through Northern California’s Redwoods and into Oregon, where you can visit Crater Lake National Park or Cannon Beach.
Both routes offer stunning coastal views, charming towns, and fantastic food and wine.
Eastern U.S. Adventures: Bourbon Trails, Coastal Beauty, and Casino Nights
The East Coast is full of fantastic road trip options, whether you’re looking for scenic nature, historic charm, or a little excitement.
• Kentucky Bourbon Trail – Start in Louisville and make your way through historic distilleries in Bardstown, Lexington, and beyond. Sip some of the finest bourbon while enjoying the rolling bluegrass hills.
• Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park – Fly into Boston or Portland, Maine, and drive up the coast to Bar Harbor. Spend time hiking in Acadia National Park, enjoying fresh lobster, and soaking in the stunning Atlantic views.
• Atlantic City, NJ – If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Atlantic City offers a mix of casinos, a boardwalk, live entertainment, and beaches.
The Midwest: Montana, Wyoming, and Utah – Nature’s Playground
For those who love the great outdoors, the Midwest offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes.
• Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks – Fly into Bozeman, Montana, or Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and explore these incredible national parks. In summer, enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and geysers. In winter, go snowmobiling or skiing.
• Utah’s Mighty 5 – Visit Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks for incredible rock formations, desert landscapes, and world-class hiking.
The Southwest & Texas: Desert Beauty and Cowboy Culture
The Southwest is filled with dramatic scenery, rich history, and unique culture.
• Arizona & New Mexico – Visit Sedona for its stunning red rock landscapes, explore Santa Fe for its art scene and adobe architecture, or take a road trip through Route 66 for nostalgia and quirky roadside stops.
• San Antonio & Fort Worth, Texas – Walk along the San Antonio River Walk, visit The Alamo, and enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine. Then, head to Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of cowboy culture, live rodeos, and historic charm.
Georgia & Tennessee: Southern Charm & Live Music
For a closer-to-home getaway, there’s so much to explore right in Georgia and Tennessee!
• Atlanta – Spend a weekend in Atlanta, where you can visit the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Enjoy the city’s vibrant dining scene and rooftop bars.
• Nashville – Whether you’re into country music or not, Nashville is a must-visit! Explore Broadway’s honky-tonks, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Grand Ole Opry. Enjoy the city’s booming food scene, live music, and Southern hospitality.
Start Planning Your U.S. Adventure!
The beauty of traveling within the U.S. is that there’s always somewhere new to explore. Whether you’re flying in and renting a car or hitting the road from home, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences.
Let’s start planning your next adventure! Contact me at Take Time to Travel, and we’ll create the perfect itinerary tailored just for you.
Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel
The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal
Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.
Y’all, this past weekend was a little bit of everything—relaxation, family time, and a wild storm that reminded me just how unpredictable Mother Nature can be.
Saturday started off as one of those slow, easy days that I absolutely love. Greg and I enjoyed a laid-back day at home with our four-legged crew—Cash and Shelby keeping us entertained (as always) and Bean overseeing his kingdom like the little feline dictator he is. It was one of those rare, precious Saturdays where I didn’t have to be anywhere, do anything, or answer to anyone. Just me, Greg, my fur babies, and a whole lot of nothing. Absolute perfection.
And then… the storm rolled in.
By Saturday night, the skies opened up, and I swear it felt like the entire ocean got dumped on us in just a few hours. The creek behind the house rose fast—higher than I’ve seen it in a long time, like it had been pouring for days instead of just an evening. The wind howled, the rain pounded, and we rode it out, grateful to be safe inside while the storm raged outside.
Euharlee Creek
But not everyone was as fortunate. Across seven states, homes were lost, lives were forever changed, and entire communities are now picking up the pieces. My heart is heavy for those families facing devastation in the wake of these storms. Please keep them in your prayers as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
Sunday, thankfully, brought sunshine and a much-needed dose of love and laughter. I got to spend the day with Jake, Jarrett, Tyra and my precious grands—my favorite way to reset after a long week. We shared a delicious lunch (because if you know me, you know food and family go hand in hand), and then we headed out to the farm.
Watching AJ and baby Harvey light up as they petted the sweetest little animals? Pure magic. There’s something about children and animals that just melts your heart. They remind you to slow down, soak up the simple moments, and find joy in the little things.
And honestly, that’s what this weekend was all about. Whether it was the quiet moments at home, the chaos of the storm, or the love and laughter of Sunday, it all reminded me how precious life is.
Hold your loved ones close, hug them a little tighter, and say a prayer for those who need it right now.
Tammy, me and LeeAnn …always my faves to travel with!
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my first few years as a travel advisor, it’s that travel is so much more than just a getaway. It’s a reset button, a perspective shifter, and sometimes, exactly what the soul needs. Whether you’re longing for an adventure, a dose of relaxation, or just a break from the daily grind, there are countless reasons why you should travel—and why you should do it often.
1. Travel Expands Your Perspective
Let’s be real—sometimes we get so caught up in our little corner of the world that we forget there’s a whole big planet out there. Travel has a way of reminding us just how diverse and beautiful life can be. Seeing how others live, eat, celebrate, and even struggle can be humbling and eye-opening. Whether you’re strolling through a bustling market in Marrakech or sipping wine in a quiet Tuscan village, every experience broadens your understanding of the world.
2. Travel is Good for Your Mental Health
We all need an escape sometimes. The daily routine—work, responsibilities, stress—can weigh us down. Travel gives us permission to pause, breathe, and simply be. Studies have shown that traveling reduces stress, boosts happiness, and even enhances creativity. And let’s not forget the magic of unplugging! No emails, no deadlines—just you, a stunning sunset, and maybe a cocktail in hand.
3. Travel Creates Unforgettable Memories
Life is a collection of moments, and some of the best ones happen when you’re out exploring. Maybe it’s that spontaneous road trip detour that led to a hidden gem, or that hilarious language mix-up that had everyone in stitches. Travel brings out the unexpected, and those are the stories you’ll be telling for years to come.
4. Travel Strengthens Relationships
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, there’s something about being away from home that deepens connections. Couples rediscover each other in new settings, families bond over shared adventures, and solo travelers find lifelong friendships in the most unexpected places. Some of the strongest relationships are built over shared experiences—and what better place to build them than in a beautiful destination?
5. Travel Reminds You to Live in the Moment
In a world where we’re constantly thinking about what’s next, travel forces us to slow down and savor the now. That first sip of espresso in a Parisian café, the sound of the waves crashing on a Caribbean shore, the breathtaking view from a mountaintop in Colorado—these are the moments that remind us why we’re here.
6. Travel is an Investment in Yourself
A new wardrobe is nice, but experiences? They’re priceless. Travel is one of the best things you can spend your money on because it gives you so much in return—happiness, knowledge, memories, and even a newfound appreciation for home.
So, if you’ve been putting off that dream trip, consider this your sign: Go for it. The world is waiting, and there’s no better time to explore it than now. And when you’re ready to plan your next adventure, you know where to find me!
Happy travels!
Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel
The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal
Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.
Some losses cut deeper than words can express. Losing my sister, Cari, has been one of those losses. Nearly a year has passed since she had one foot on Earth and one in Heaven, yet the ache of what could have been lingers just as much as the pain of what was.
Cari was the cutest little girl—smart, sassy, full of life. In so many ways, she reminds me of AJ, which I think is part of why I feel such a deep bond with her. Cari and I were robbed of a childhood together as sisters. I wish, more than anything, that she had been able to escape the chaos that surrounded her. I wish she had been given a chance at normalcy, at peace, at a life free from constant strife and bitterness.
As an adult, I longed for her to be part of our family, to feel the warmth of unconditional love—the kind of love that doesn’t waver or bend, that simply holds you at its center. But for Cari, that kind of love always seemed just out of reach. Whether by fear, by circumstance, or by choices made, she remained on the outside looking in.
Grief is a tangled thing. It’s raw, unpredictable, and often intertwined with regret, love, and unanswered questions. Could we have tried harder? Pushed more? Found a way to break through the walls she built? I don’t have those answers. I only know that we did what we could, and at some point, self-preservation became necessary. To protect my own heart, my own sanity, my own ability to love those who would let me in.
I wonder if she ever truly knew how deeply she was loved. I hope she did. I pray that in those last still moments, when the world was quiet, she felt it. That God wrapped her in it, even if she had spent so long keeping it at bay.
Grief doesn’t just live in the loss itself—it exists in the years stolen before the final goodbye. It lingers in the missed moments, the what-ifs, and the longing for a different story. But through it all, I am grateful for my village, the people who have surrounded me with love and understanding.
If there’s anything loss has taught me, it’s that we each need to be a little more gentle with ourselves through the pain. The weight of grief is heavy enough—we don’t need to add blame to it. We do the best we can with the circumstances we are given, and sometimes, despite all the love in the world, we cannot pull someone into the light if they are not ready—or able—to step into it. That doesn’t mean our love wasn’t real, or strong, or enough.
Cari’s story is hers, but her memory will always be ours to hold. And as much as it hurts, I choose to believe that somewhere, somehow, she finally knows the depth of the love that was always hers.
I don’t know about y’all, but some of my favorite childhood memories don’t involve five-star resorts or elaborate itineraries. No, sir. My best travel memories are packed into the floorboard of a big truck, sprawled out with my sister, rolling down some highway in the middle of nowhere, USA.
See, when I was a kid, road trips were a thing. And not just a “get in the car and drive straight to your destination” type of thing—no, no. They were an adventure. A slow, meandering, pull-over-at-the-weirdest-tourist-traps type of journey.
When I traveled with my maternal grandparents, my Gramma was the queen of the map. And I mean a real map—the kind that took up the entire front seat and folded in ways that defied the laws of physics. She would instruct my Grampa on the proper way to go, how to get there, and exactly where he was supposed to turn. He, of course, would pretend to listen, and I’d be in the back just enjoying the show.
Then there were the trips with my Daddy, riding in his big ol’ truck, delivering furniture to different parts of the country. My sister, Cari and I were so little, we could curl up in the floorboard and sleep, which sounds slightly questionable now but was perfectly normal back then. Stopping at gas stations was a big deal—because let’s be honest, the best part of a road trip is the snacks. And gas station snacks hit different when you’re a kid.
Now, speaking of questionable things we did as kids, let’s talk about the ultimate road trip setup—the kind that would give today’s safety experts a heart attack. Again, there was no seatbelt law back then, and one spring break, my Daddy took full advantage of that fact. He had just bought a brand-new, black Chevy Silverado (which, by the way, was basically the Cadillac of trucks in his mind). He put a camper shell on the back, threw in a mattress, covered it with blankets, and that was it—our very own rolling clubhouse. Cari and I rode all the way to the beach—Myrtle or Panama City, I honestly can’t remember—in the back of that truck, tucked in with our Barbies, coloring books, and whatever else we could pack into our little mobile fort. It was heaven. No seatbelts, no iPads, just pure childhood joy.
When we traveled with my paternal grandparents—Chubby and Pa—it always meant staying overnight at a hotel that I swear was always next to a Cracker Barrel. Back then, Cracker Barrel wasn’t on every corner like it is now. It was a true Southern institution, always planted firmly beside a roadside hotel where you’d check in for the night after a long day on the road.
Now, why am I telling you all this? Because road trips matter. When we plan travel, we get so caught up in the where that we forget about the how. And sometimes, the how is the best part.
A road trip doesn’t have to be a cross-country expedition (though those are great). It doesn’t have to have a strict itinerary or a luxury destination at the end. Some of the best trips are the ones where you just go—stop at the funky roadside attractions, eat at the hole-in-the-wall diners, and let the road take you where it wants.
If you’ve never taken your kids on a proper road trip—the kind where you roll the windows down, blast some questionable music, and let them pick out ridiculous snacks at a gas station—then you are missing out. They won’t remember the perfect vacation itinerary. But they will remember the road.
So go on, pack the car, grab a map (or, okay, at least pretend to look at one before using GPS), and hit the road. There’s a whole country out there just waiting for you to drive through it.
And if you pass a Cracker Barrel, you’d better stop. It’s tradition.
Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel
The Take Time To Travel Team – Cindy, Jani, Tammy, Trisha, Krystal
Life is one big journey—and I’m sharing mine, one mile and one moment at a time. Subscribe to follow along.
Wouldn’t it be nice if life came with an instruction manual? Something like “Step 1: Be born. Step 2: Have your life together by 25. Step 3: Coast comfortably into retirement with perfect skin and a fully stocked bank account.”
Yeah, well, bless your heart if you think that’s how it works.
Down here in the South, we know better. We were born into chaos, raised on porch wisdom, and seasoned with a whole lot of trial and error. Life didn’t come with a manual, so we just went ahead and wrote our own—probably on the back of a napkin with sweet tea rings on it. And honey, it’s way more entertaining than anything Ikea could come up with.
Step 1: Mind Your Manners—But Also, Mind Your Business
In the South, we were raised to say yes ma’am and no sir, send thank-you notes, and always offer somebody a plate of food before asking why they even showed up in the first place. But let’s get one thing straight—we are polite, not passive.
We might be smiling at you, but if you hear a “Well, ain’t that nice?” in a certain tone, you should start backing away slowly. We wrote the book on Southern hospitality, but we also added a whole chapter on how to read between the lines.
Step 2: When in Doubt, Fry It or Fix It with Duct Tape
Life throws curveballs, and we don’t have time for breakdowns—unless they involve broken air conditioning in August, in which case prayers and funeral arrangements might be necessary. Otherwise, the solution to most of life’s problems is either deep-frying it or duct-taping it back together.
Car won’t start? Duct tape that battery wire.
Bad haircut? Tease it and add some hairspray.
Relationship on the rocks? Sit down with some fried chicken and see if you can’t work it out.
And if nothing else works, grab a mason jar, pour yourself something strong, and let Jesus take the wheel.
Step 3: Know When to Raise Hell and When to Just Sit on the Porch
Not everything is worth fighting over, but some things absolutely are. Down here, we know the difference between a bless-your-heart situation and a somebody-better-hold-my-earrings moment.
We let a lot slide, but if you come for our family, our football team, or our grandmother’s recipe for cornbread (sugar does not belong in it, by the way), we will absolutely take you to the front yard and settle things the proper way—with a mix of passive-aggressive comments and possibly a well-placed sandal.
On the flip side, sometimes life just calls for rocking chairs, a cool breeze, and remembering that not every battle needs to be fought today. Some things sort themselves out when given time and a little sweet tea-induced wisdom.
Step 4: Laugh, Even When It Ain’t Funny
If there’s one thing Southerners do best, it’s finding humor in even the most ridiculous situations. Whether it’s laughing at ourselves, at life, or at that one uncle who always starts a sentence with “Now I ain’t one to gossip, but…,” we know that if you can’t find something to smile about, you’re doing it wrong.
Because at the end of the day, life’s instruction manual is just a collection of stories—some of them good, some of them messy, and some of them so downright unbelievable you couldn’t make ’em up if you tried.
So go on, write your own manual. Just make sure it’s got a little sass, a little grace, and a whole lot of Southern charm. And if all else fails, remember—everything’s figure-out-able… except how to fold a fitted sheet. That one remains a mystery.
Journeys With Jani 