It was New Year’s morning of 2014 when I sat down to write my first words for the Casual Travelist. A short month since my Mom passed and only a few days after she was laid to rest, the pain of our family’s loss was still very raw and all too real. The month leading up to my Mom’s death were a roller coaster of highs and lows in and out of the hospital and my world outside that had stopped. I spent the weeks following in a complete haze, only focusing what was right in front of me. I wore my grief like blinders and really couldn’t think or focus about much of anything. I knew I needed to do something to start moving forward.
So on January 1, my Mom’s birthday, I sat down and started to write.
I really didn’t know what I wanted to write so I wrote about the only thing I could at the moment, losing my Mom to early onset Alzheimer’s and the regrets of experiences we never got to have because we were always putting them off for later. This lead to my first post, My One and Only Travel Resolution for 2014. In short I resolved to take more trips with family and friends to share with them the joys of travel and new experiences together.
I really need to thank my friend Heather, who dragged me on a weekend ski trip in West Virginia last February. Braving a snowstorm, serpentine mountain curves in the dark and one pissed off raccoon was totally worth it. Heather, along with our friends Kate and John took care of everything that weekend allowing me to relax and just enjoy myself. That weekend showed me that it was ok to have fun again.
As 2014 marched on, day trips to the Outer Banks with my sister were followed by a Independence Day celebration to Boston with some of my oldest friends. August brought my husband’s mother’s ( i never call her my mother in law. She is a gem of a woman and is really a second Mom to me) dream trip to coastal Maine. She was over the moon with this trip and the happiness it brought her was restorative for me. It was on this trip I also found a new appreciation of the regional differences throughout the United States. There is a tendency to think that the American experience is a fairly homogeneous one, with the same chains and the same strip malls making up the same towns. In Maine I found a culture and vibe completely different from what I was living in Virginia Beach and it really opened up my eyes to what can make different pockets of the US so unique.
Last January I really had no idea where this blog would lead, I just knew I needed to start. A series of serendipitous events, including a major assignment with Afar.com and a chance meeting with a PR rep, solidified that travel blogging was a path I needed to follow. Grief is a funny thing. The blinders come off a little bit at a time, you get a little better and you think you’re alright but you’re really not. You just don’t realize it until that next layer of grief has peeled off. Looking back it took me about 6 months to start getting back to myself ( my coworkers will certainly agree, I was a mess at work for the first half of the year. Thanks for putting up with me!) . My writing was certainly reflective of this; as the year progressed the fog lifted and I really started to find my voice. 2014 ended on a high note with my first major press trip in November ( and a new found love of oysters!) giving me even more confidence that travel blogging was something I was meant to do.
So whats on the horizon for me in 2015? The year starts out in sunny Tampa visiting family for the holidays and upping my cred as the cool fun aunt with my 9 year old niece. A few weeks later I’ll be heading to New Orleans to soak up the culture of this creole city by the bayou and eat as much as humanly possible. July brings another Independence Day trip with good friends to Washington DC (do I see the start of a tradition here?). Mr. Casual Travelist, my rock and co-adventurer, has a milestone birthday this year (one that ends with a zero) so expect something bucket listy coming down the pike.
Thank you all so much for joining me over the past year; I truly appreciate each new visitor, comment and compliment. I wish you all love, happiness and adventure in 2015.
Elaine J. Masters says
It’s amazing what grief or tragedy can lead us to. Your blog is a lovely testament to a resilient spirit and the spirit of adventure. Looking forward to see what you create in 2015.
Brianna says
Thank you so much Elaine, I’m excited to see where 2015 takes me.
Anda says
I can understand so well where you are coming from, Brianna. My mom passed away just a month after I published my first post on my blog. She actually was so bad when I published it, that she couldn’t even read it. Somehow the birth of my blog marked the passing of my mother, which is a very painful thing. However, I think your mom would have been so proud of your work, so keep it up. Happy anniversary!
Brianna says
Anda, I’m so sorry for the loss of your Mom; I know she would be very proud of your beautiful blog as well. Wishing you happy travels in 2015.
Jenna says
What an important lesson…that we should not put off things assuming we can do them later. I think about that a lot. Your blog has grown so much this year. I look forward to seeing what this year holds for you!
Brianna says
Thank you so much Jenna, 2014 was a year of mourning and rediscovery for me and I’m certainly excited to see what 2015 has in store.
Shikha (whywasteannualleave) says
A very moving post Brianna – I hadn’t realised that this was the origin of your writing – what an emotional journey this last year must have been bt you must be very proud of the blog achievements as no doubt your Mum would be too. Wishing you all the best for this new yera and enjoy the trips you have lined up 🙂
Brianna says
Thank you so much, writing has definitely been very cathartic for me. Happy travels to you in 2015!
Katie @ Domestiphobia says
I’m enamored with what you said about the homogeny of the U.S. I’ve often felt that way but then constantly contradict myself when I compare/contrast all of its lovely and interesting regions. Well-said!
Brianna says
It’s easy to write off the US as “not being exotic enough” but I was really struck by regional differences after visiting the Eastern Shore. So close to home but so different!
Charles McCool says
Congratulations on your anniversary, first press trip, etc.
Brianna says
Thanks Charles, I’m excited to see what 2015 brings!
Jess says
Happy blogging birthday! You’ve definitely accomplished a lot. I hope 2015 is awesome!
Brianna says
Thank you, wishing you happiness and adventure in 2015!
Andrea says
Congratulations on making it to one year! Can’t wait to read about your travels and adventures in New Orleans and Tampa in 2015!
Brianna says
Thanks, I’m super excited for my upcoming trip to NOLA!
Scott Tisson says
A very personal post, look like its been a crazy year. Congrats on what you have achieved so far! My blog is only 4 months old. Here’s to 2015 🙂
Brianna says
Wow, I thought you had been blogging much longer than that. Happy travels to you in 2015!
Sarah Ebner says
Beautiful blog post – and send you love about your mum. I am sure this is still so hard – she looks like such a lovely lady. I’m glad travelling has helped and look forward to reading about your adventures this year.
Brianna says
Thank you so much Sarah, writing was definitely healing for me. Looking forward to seeing where 2015 takes you.
Donna Meyer says
What a beautifully heartfelt and wise post. Your mom was beautiful and you look so much like her. Clearly she was a gift in your life. And the gift of writing helped you to heal from that loss.
I identify completely. I lost my mom in August of last year. It hit me in ways I never expected and I was a long time coming back to myself. But it woke me up in so many ways, too. I used to have such a passion for traveling, but for many years I had done little of it. Finally a year after her death, I took my first big trip in many years–5 weeks in Europe, solo. It was heaven! A month after I returned from that trip, I started my brand-new travel blog, something that had never really occurred to me before that trip. This year is going to see a LOT more miles put on this old girl! And I can’t wait to write about them all. Good wishes for all your travels in 2015, Brianna.
Brianna says
We all experience grief differently and I’m glad to see you’ve risen from it with a new vision. Wishing happiness and adventure for you in 2015!
Jolanta says
I am very, very sorry for your loss. Have you ever watched “The Way” about a father (played by Martin Sheen) who decides to hike the Camino de Santiago after his son got lost and died on the first day of the hike? No words exist that will lessen the pain, but I am positive your mom would be very happy to know that you decided to take the trips you were planning to take together. Your blog and your current life is a tribute to her. Keep writing, keep traveling, and keep following your dream. Happy 2015!
Brianna says
I hadn’t heard of that movie but it sounds like a good watch. Thank you for your kind words as well Nice blog name too 🙂
Nancie says
It’s hard to lose a parent, and you certainly chose a good outlet to help you ease your grief. Here’s to 2015.
Brianna says
Thank you so much Nancie, the blog has certainly been cathartic for me. Wishing you an adventurous 2015.
Tim says
“A few weeks later I’ll be heading to New Orleans to soak up the culture of this creole city by the bayou and eat as much as humanly possible”…will be doing exactly the same thing in a few months 🙂
Brianna says
I’m definitely excited and just found out I’ll be there during the Krewe du Vieaux, a preluse celebration to Mardi Gras.
Erin says
I’m so sorry for the loss of your mother. Losing family is such a hard thing. I’m so happy, though, that you had good people around you to help you get through it. And I’m happy that you’ve had such a wonderful year. Travel is so much fun and experiencing new things can definitely heal hurts. Good luck with 2015. I hope it is as amazing as you want it to be.
Brianna says
Thank you for your kind words Erin, my travels and writing were definitely a huge part of my healing process. Happy travels to you in 2015!
Dave Cole says
Congrats, Brianna – and what a beautiful post to commemorate your blog! I’ve been enjoying your adventures since the beginning and am looking forward to another fun year on the Casual Travelist.
Brianna says
Thank you Dave, I was surprised to find out your blog was only a few months older than mine-its definitely one of my favorites.. I can’t wait to see your posts from Spain, definitely one of the best countries to eat on the planet. Happy travels to you in 2015!
Kate says
Wow, what a year you’ve been through! It must have been heartbreaking and grief is such a personal thing with each journey of getting yourself back taking its own route. So glad you were able to continue blogging and taking trips. I’m sure your mum would be proud
Brianna says
Thank you Kate, traveling and writing was a huge part of my healing process.
Conor Walsh says
Hi Brianna,
I can appreciate where you’re coming from for sure. While I didn’t start blogging until a few years traveling, losing my mother to cancer was a massive push for me to head out and explore the world. And its the best thing I’ve ever done.
Looks like you’re all set for 2015. I’m hoping to have a big, successful year as well. Good luck!
Brianna says
Losing someone close is never easy but I’m happy to see it inspired your travels. Here’s to happiness and adventure in 2015!
Brenda says
What a beautiful post about your loves… mom, husband and travel! Brianna, 2014 is a year I’m sure you’ll never forget. Can’t wait to see what 2015 brings to you…
Brianna says
Thank you Brenda, I have a very good feeling about 2015 🙂
Stephen & Jess says
What a great reason to start writing and congratulations on making it through the year. To another a year!
Brianna says
Writing and traveling was integral to my healing process. I have a hunch 2015 is going to be a very good year!
Vasudha Aggarwal says
Great way to begin a new year. Wish you a wonderful 2015.
Brianna says
Thank you, happy travels to you in 2015!
Pablo says
Congrats on one year! Sounds like you’re definitely headed in the right direction and looks like this year is only going to be better than the last!
Brianna says
Thanks Pablo, I have a great feeling about 2015!
Anne Klien ( Meaanne) says
Happy anniversary. ….. 2014 has lifted the fog in the air for you and hopefully 2015 will bring a brighter year. Have a safe travels.
Brianna says
Thanks Anne, wishing you happiness and adventure in 2015!
Aileen says
Happy anniversary! Awesome for reaching your first year, and indeed a lot of things have happened to you and it’s absolutely beautiful that you’ve shared us a part of you here. It must have been rough but it’s great to hear that you’ve channeled it very well.
Here’s to an awesome year ahead!
Brianna says
Thank you Aileen, I have a feeling that 2015 is going to be a very good year 🙂
Ana O'Reilly says
I agree, although the US seems homogeneous, there are those pockets you mention that make travel so interesting and fun.
Regarding NOLA, we ate a restaurant called Cochon and was an amazing experience. Food and ambiance are excellent. Do go if you have time. It’s in the Warehouse District, away from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon St.
Brianna says
Ana, I really think there are a lot more of those pockets than we realize 😉 . I’ll take a look at Cochon, there is so much good food in NOLA it will be hard to narrow it down!
Howard @ Backroad Planet says
The best travel posts are the ones that share the good, bad, and ugly in a story because we all find something to which we can relate. So sorry for the loss of your mother, but I am happy you have been able to move on and find joy in your travels.
Brianna says
Thanks Howard, I’m a bit of an introvert but writing this blog and this post in particular was very cathartics. Happy travels to you in 2015!
zof says
Happy blogaversary. Thank you for writing for us.
Brianna says
Thank you so much!
Lauren says
I’m very sorry for your loss…that’s so tough 🙁 I’m really happy that you have started your blog and traveling about, and sharing your stories with us! All the best for 2015.
Brianna says
Thank you for your kind words Lauren, happy travels to you in 2015!
Michelle - Very Hungry Explorer says
I’m so sorry about your Mum. I’m glad that 2014 has gotten better for you and it sounds like 2015 is going to be fantastic.
Brianna says
Thanks Michelle, I have a very good feeling about 2015.
John Widmer says
What a moving post. I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I’m sure she’s looking down on you and very proud of your experiences and writing career. It’s incredible what you’ve accomplished in one short year. Congrats on your first press trip. I travel to Virginia frequently, next time I’ll have to pay a visit to Chatham Vineyards, it looks beautiful and a great way to spend the afternoon.
Brianna says
Thank you for your kind words John, happy travels to you in 2015!
Kristen Sarra says
What a touching story. I’m glad the blog has been so great to you and congratulations on the one year mark! 2015 will be a very exciting year for you!
Brianna says
Thank you Kristen, I have a feeling good things are in store for 2015!
Revati Victor says
It’s sad the way we humans usually need a push (or some tragedy to his us) in order to really understand the fleeting nature of our life on this planet. But the way you reacted was so beautiful. I believe it’s an excellent homage to your mother, to try and get as much as you can out of this lifetime. May her soul rest in peace, and may you find peace in all your travels, Brianna.
Brianna says
Thank you for this beautiful sentiment Revati. I’m excited to see what 2015 has in store.
christine says
Congrats! Happy 1 year 🙂
Brianna says
Thanks Christine, happy travels to you in 2015!
Sky says
Writing and blogging can be such a healing activity. I’m glad you were able to find something good in a time of pain.
Congrats on hitting one year!
Brianna says
Thank you Sky, writing was definitely integral for me to move forward.
Jenna says
So sorry for your loss. But, it looks like 2014 shaped up to be a good year and congrats on the success with the blog! Can’t wait to see what 2015 brings–happy travels! 🙂
Brianna says
Thanks Jenna, happy travels to you as well!
Natalie says
I’m so, so sorry to hear about your mom–losing a family member is an incredibly difficult experience. 🙁 However, I am glad that you were able to bring something positive out of your grief: I love your blog, and I’m so happy that you’ve been able to use it as a push to travel more! Here’s to many happy travels in 2015!
Brianna says
Thanks for your kind words Natalie, here’s to happiness and adventure in 2015!
Tami says
I hope that writing has continued to help you heal. Isn’t creating anything rather therapeutic? So sorry for your loss–it is always a tragedy to lose someone so young. But especially your mother! Thank you for sharing yourself with all of us!