Thankful for the Gift of Travel

Gratitude is something I think about every day, and it feels especially poignant when I consider the role travel has played in my life. Having the ability to explore the world—the sights, tastes, and perspectives—has been one of the greatest gifts of my life, and I never take for granted how lucky I am to have the time, resources, and support to make it happen. As a travel advisor and agent, I’ve seen firsthand how moments of discovery and connection can transform not just a trip but the way we experience life itself. Every journey, whether it’s to a nearby city or a far-flung country, reminds me just how much there is to be grateful for.

One of the things I’m most thankful for is the people I get to share these adventures with. Traveling with family and friends has created some of my most cherished memories, from inside jokes on road trips to shared awe at breathtaking landscapes. Even planning trips for others brings me joy—crafting itineraries through Here’s What I Would Do that I’d love to take myself and knowing I’m helping create experiences they’ll treasure. Gratitude is also in the little moments, like hearing someone’s travel story after they’ve returned and knowing I played a small part in making it happen. It also bears mentioning how grateful I am for the friends, family, and clients who have trusted me to plan their travel this past year after launching Here’s What I Would Do!

And then there’s the deep appreciation I have for home. No matter how exciting the trip, there’s nothing quite like returning to Maine — to the home I love, my beloved dogs, and the comfort of my own bed after a post-flight shower. I’m constantly reminded how gratitude for both the grand and the simple things can make life so much sweeter. Travel has a way of making the ordinary feel extraordinary and the extraordinary feel more meaningful. For that I am deeply thankful, today and every day.