February 17, 2025

Three weeks.
Sunshine.
Sloths.
Sunscreen.
And so many beautiful moments wrapped into one unforgettable adventure.

I’m incredibly grateful for the vacation time that allowed me to soak in three full weeks of Costa Rican magic. It started with a girl’s getaway—just Shae and me—flying south to escape the Canadian winter and reunite with Grammie and Pepe in Tamarindo. We traded snow for sand, busy days for pool games, and stress for stillness. It was sunshine, relaxation, and the kind of togetherness that fills your soul.

And then, in week three, the adventure leveled up—Ryan and Jackson joined us for the grand finale.

That’s when the real action began: jungle hikes, wildlife sightings, surfing, swimming, waterfalls, and endless reapplications of sunscreen. We found ourselves in touching distance to a sloth in a tree, marveled at lush rainforests, and re-created photos from our last visit eight years ago—same smiles, just a little taller this time.

One of the things I cherish most is how well we travel with my parents. Not everyone gets to say that. I feel so blessed that they want to be part of these adventures—not just as grandparents, but as true travel companions. The memories we create as a multigenerational family are some of the richest, and I treasure every one of them.

We drank the coffee (so much coffee).
We were proudly touristy.
We embraced the beach hair and salty skin.
And we leaned into every experience with wide eyes and open hearts.

Ryan and I even snuck in time together —we celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary with a round of golf and a beautiful sunset dinner by the ocean. It was simple, perfect, and just the way we like it.

And then, on our final day, I made it permanent.

Pura Vida.

I had those two words inked into my skin as a lasting reminder of what Costa Rica taught me—what it reminds me:
Live the good life.
Live for today.
This moment.
Find joy, even in the small things.
Choose gratitude.
Choose presence.
Choose lightness.

Costa Rica gave us memories, laughter, and moments I’ll hold forever. And now, with Pura Vida etched into my skin—and my heart—I carry a piece of it home with me.

Until next time, Costa Rica.
Thanks for the adventure.