Dear Summer: A Love Letter from a Frequent Traveler

Welcome back, travel family.

I hope you're staying hydrated, sun-kissed, and well-traveled. Just a quick check in — how are your summer travel plans going so far? Any must-see stops that should be on my radar? Or maybe a new travel hack that you’ve been wanting to share with your favorite travel friend?

I’m not going to say any names, but there will be signs. 🙋🏾‍♀️LOL.

As for me? I’ve been landlocked  lately. (Yes, I said it. Grounded. And not in the spiritually “focused on Jesus” type of way 😅.)

No boarding passes. No last-minute repacking chaos. No casual stroll through TSA PreCheck like a boss chick heading to the Maldives. No overpriced airport coffee while side-eyeing people who still don’t take their liquids out. I know — shocking.

This year is flying by faster than I can spell VACAY. And my 2025 travel wish list? Still way too long. But before I rush to cross off states and chase passport stamps, I wanted to pause and reflect. I may not be in motion right now, but the travel bug hasn’t left. It’s alive, well and thriving in this summer heat. LOL!!

That’s the thing about being a traveler — even when we’re grounded, we’re dreaming. Planning. Watching the skies and tracking flights.

Lately, being grounded has been its own kind of journey. After-work walks and a quick Saturday stop at FavNutrition for one of their refreshing natural beverages that kept me cool and fueled through the hot summer day. It’s those little moments that remind me there’s adventure even in the everyday. Farmers markets I love during the summer.

FavNutrition beverage

A chance to explore local gems I used to zoom past — or finally visit the places I always said I would. And honestly? That quiet in-between space — between flights, between goals, between what’s next — has a beauty of its own.

Not the kind you post about, but the kind that resets you.

So, if you’ve been in a pause too? You’re not behind. You’re just in your refuel era. ✨

And for anyone else who’s been parked for a minute: it’s okay. Travel isn’t always about mileage. It’s about mindset. About noticing the beauty in our own backyards. About saying yes to the world — even if that world is just a few blocks, counties, or states away.

Since I’m not currently packing a carry-on just yet, let me take a second to put my summer feeling into words:

Dear Summer,

Thanks for the long days and free outdoor activities. 😊

For reminding me to live in the moment — and to watch out for snakes. 🥶

For the laughter of cookouts..and the reminder that 🤭you can’t eat from everybody.

I may be grounded for now, but your rhythm is in everything I see.

You can’t get rid of me just yet, SIR. 😏

– Your favorite (temporarily) grounded traveler,

Dolly

Hold on, family — don’t count me out just yet. My suitcase hasn’t been retired, it’s just on a short sabbatical. HAHA!! A new destination is on the horizon. Let’s just say it might involve cowboy boots, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes. And no — please don’t pull out your fan.

This is not your cue to yell, “Boots on the ground.” (Okay … maybe. Maybe not. 😏)

Cowboy boots with spurs

I’m gearing up for an adventure where the air feels a little crisper, the landscapes stretch wider than your eyes can take in, and the pace slows down just enough to catch your breath. It’s the kind of place where city noise fades, and nature takes center stage — perfect for anyone ready to trade the everyday hustle for a little natural peace.

So, here’s your last clue: it’s giving home on the range vibes. Hopefully, I won’t have to wrestle a prairie dog or swift fox over my lunch —because, let’s be honest, I definitely won’t win. Any guesses where I’m heading? Drop them in the comments — let’s see who’s paying attention. 👀🐾

Stay tuned … the journey’s about to get interesting.

If you’ve enjoyed this little travel pause with me, I’d love for you to stick around for the next chapter — it’s going to be a good one. Whether you’re on the road, dreaming from your desk, or somewhere in between, remember: the journey is still happening.

If you’d like to support more stories, small business love, and conscious travel moments like these, feel free to drop a little something in the virtual tip jar — every bit helps keep the coffee hot, the suitcase rolling, and the mission flowing. 💛

Until next time — stay curious, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to leave room in your bag for snacks and surprises.

Check out the donation links (Venmo, Cash App, PayPal ) to show your support — it truly means the world. Blessings always! ✈️🌍💛