Although I have never seen it, there is a movie called “Yes Man” starring Jim Carrey (2008). There have been a few people over the years who have made reference to it saying I was a Yes Woman just like Carl in the movie because I would always say Yes. Anyone who knows me, knows I have a hard time saying no, and I do not like missing out on things. Therefore, I say Yes to almost everything. Because I have said Yes to weddings, birthdays, and family occasions, I have seen beautiful parts of the United States and the world. I must say I have really enjoyed most of the experiences, and I am glad I am a Yes Woman!
I’ve always loved traveling. Being a teacher allowed me to have a lot of time off, but not necessarily a lot of money to do the traveling. So, I chose to give up a lot of “stuff” that way I could say Yes to the next big trip. If traveling is your passion, then you do what you have to do to make it happen.
Because I am a Yes Woman, I have had amazing road trips across the United States and beautiful Mexican, European and Caribbean vacations for which I am so grateful. As you read this blog, you will see many fun Adventures with Gram and some great trips without her.
Being a Yes Woman sometimes can get you in trouble. At times saying Yes can be overwhelming, tiring, and stressful, I am learning that I don’t have to say Yes to everything. I am learning to value my time and to evaluate opportunities before saying Yes. I am learning to say no and to have time to recover and relax. I am getting better at it 🙂 Although it is overwhelming, tiring, and exhausting, saying Yes to becoming Gram’s caregiver has been one of the most inspiring and amazing experiences I have had.
Being a caregiver has thrown a curve ball into my traveling game, but I do what I have to do to continue to make it happen. I am also beyond blessed that I found a Yes Man who loves traveling and loves Gram as much as I do. One of the best things I have said Yes to was to his proposal made to me in Chicago on his 50th birthday. So far, we have been to six countries and 15 states together. Whatever arrangements need to be made to continue our adventures, we make them. As caregivers, we know in order to be the best caregivers, it is extremely important to take care of ourselves first. We know that getting a break makes all the difference in the world.
Over the past few years, I have learned that life changes on a dime so make the best of every day. The thing is, life is short and we only get one shot. Take the time off and take that trip with your friends or loved ones. Having and making memories is so much better than having “stuff”. So, take a chance and be a Yes WoMan!