#Aruba - One Happy Island

[jjspina]

Aruba vacation is winding down!

[scntlisi]

the nicknames some caribbean islands have are so great

[thisthatandeverything83]

Clarice is out for an Aruban adventure

[feelinsexyandfree]

Watch and see why Aruba is said to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean! It was our first Caribbean island so I personally can’t compare just yet, but we definitely had so much fun and I can’t wait to be back! 😍

Link: https://youtu.be/qp_OVdMZRTA

Happy watching! 💕

PS I think my husband secretly wants to be a vlogger 😅

[hoppertravel23]

Aruba Travel Guide || Things To Do In Aruba

When it comes to well-liked vacation spots, Aruba is a must-see location. People love this island for a variety of reasons. Beautiful white sand beaches and calm, blue waters make it difficult to choose just one to recommend. Sunny skies every day of the year, opulent lodgings, cutting-edge construction, hospitable locals, unusual activities, etc.

SAFETY: 

Most well-known tourist locations are secure, but you should exercise caution: stay away from isolated areas after dark. Never leave valuables in your car or carry them to the beach. Make sure handbags and purses are secure and challenging to steal. You must follow your usual safety procedures when traveling. A threat could also come from nature, despite being spared from the threat of storms due to being outside hurricane alleys. The landscape, the Caribbean Sea, and the possibly harmful animals in both still present risks.

Weather

The equator lies 12 degrees and 30 minutes north of Aruba. The temperature is 82 degrees Fahrenheit on average and has been quite constant. Creating a tropical yet not harsh climate (28 degrees Celsius). It is important to remember that Aruba is south of the main storm tracks and normally only experiences the sporadic effects of tropical weather nearby. The island is cooled by trade breezes, making it considerably more bearable to sunbathe on one of the many beaches. This is misleading, though, as the sun is very powerful, especially between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. High-SPF sunscreens are highly recommended, especially for people with fair skin.

Transportation

It is straightforward and affordable to get around Aruba without a car by using public transportation. The easiest method to get around is to take a taxi. Being a very tiny island, Aruba, you'll get there shortly. You are welcome to rent a car for one, two, or three days if you want to explore the island; various nearby companies provide discounts for three days. It is more affordable to take cabs or reputable buses if you plan to leave your resort to eat, gamble, or shop.

Activities

Indeed, Aruba is a "happy island." For a variety of reasons, people flock to this Caribbean destination. Including some of the best wreck diving in the area, wind-sculpted desert scenery, and gorgeous beaches. Days on Aruba can be spent shopping in Oranjestad and scuba diving off Hadicurari Beach. exploring the Arikok National Park's natural wonders or enjoying a meal at one of the island's elegant eateries. Additionally, Palm Beach is the best place to go in Aruba if you're looking for beachside nightlife. With bustling clubs and casinos, dancing, movie theaters, water fountain displays, bowling alleys, and two of Aruba's most prominent shopping centers, this beach comes to life after sundown.

Beaches

Due to its tranquil, lovely seas, and abundance of marine life, Arashi Beach is regarded as one of the best snorkeling locations in the Caribbean. The beach is easily accessible and has plenty of parking and snack huts. It features smooth white sand and clear blue water. One of the island's most family-friendly beaches, Baby Beach is known for its calm, shallow waves. Young swimmers will benefit greatly from this beach's virtually absent waves and shallow water, which make it simpler for them to swim safely. You can also explore Eagle Beach, a well-known white-sand beach with nearby access to watersports, sheltered areas, and beach huts. Visitors from throughout the world come here for a stunning seaside experience.

People

Arubans are recognized for their extraordinary beauty and friendly disposition. In reality, the Arawak Indians—a tribe of farmers and fishermen who respected peace—were the island's first inhabitants. Despite having a varied history, the people have a strong sense of national identity that is backed by a booming economy and a strong educational system. Additionally, the Caribbean has one of the best living standards. Visitors to the island have noticed the genuine warmth of an Aruban smile and the friendliness of its residents; in fact, many have said that it is the people who keep them coming back year after year. Despite having so many different cultural influences, Aruba manages to retain its uniqueness, as shown by the kind nature of its people.

[ebikess]

Explore Aruba: Top eBike Rental Options for Adventure

When it comes to exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Aruba, nothing beats the thrill of riding an eBike. The island’s diverse terrain, from pristine beaches to rugged trails, is best experienced at your own pace. That’s why finding the top eBike rental options in Aruba is essential for any adventure seeker.

One standout option is Aruba eBike Tours offering a fleet of high-quality electric bikes that cater to both beginners and seasoned riders. With knowledgeable guides and customizable routes, you can discover hidden gems while enjoying a comfortable ride.

Another excellent choice is E-Bike Aruba, which provides flexible rental plans for those who want to explore on their own terms. Their well-maintained bikes come with helpful accessories like helmets and locks, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience as you navigate through Aruba’s breathtaking scenery.

For those looking for an eco-friendly way to enjoy the island’s beauty, consider **Happy Trails Aruba**. They not only offer top-notch eBikes but also promote sustainable tourism practices, making your adventure a responsible one.

No matter which option you choose, renting an eBike in Aruba opens up a world of exploration that traditional methods simply can’t match. So gear up and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this Caribbean paradise!

[vetturinos]

Aruba “One Happy Island” la Isla del Caribe

Aruba es una hermosa isla, moderna y segura que forma parte del Reino de los Países Bajos; en el Caribe holandés frente a las costas de Venezuela. Ubicada a 25 km al norte de la península de Paraguaná; al noroeste de Venezuela. Su idioma oficial son el papiamento (mezcla de español y afroportugués) y el neerlandés; también hablan inglés y español. Siendo su capital Oranjestad. Cabe destacar, que…

[kbworthsaving]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Aruba One Happy Island Tote Bag Rope Handles Zipper Closure Pocket Red Black.

[whyvisitaruba]

Where in the Caribbean is Aruba? Location Guide

https://tinyurl.com/28p8nnmn Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” of the Dutch Caribbean, is a small yet captivating spot. It’s located just off the northern coast of South America. This island nation is a unique mix of Caribbean life and European culture. Key Takeaways Aruba is a Caribbean island nation located just off the northern coast of South America. Aruba is part of the Dutch Caribbean, with a strategic location in the southern Caribbean Sea. The island’s proximity to Venezuela and other Caribbean islands makes it a popular tropical getaway. Aruba’s geography and climate offer a mix of Caribbean and European influences. Aruba’s location is a key factor in its popularity as a tourist destination. Introduction to Aruba’s Location Aruba is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, located south of the Caribbean Sea. It’s near the Paraguaná Peninsula in Venezuela. This spot makes Aruba special, giving visitors a unique island experience. Geographical Position in the Caribbean Aruba is part of the ABC islands, along with Bonaire and Curaçao. It’s about 15 miles off the Venezuelan coast. This makes it the closest Caribbean island to South America. Being outside the hurricane belt, Aruba is a perfect spot for travelers. They come for the sun, sand, and peace all year round. Proximity to Other Islands and Mainland Aruba is 1,700 miles south of Miami, Florida. This makes it easy to get to from big airports in North America and Europe. It’s close to South America and other Caribbean islands too. This location gives Aruba a special mix of Dutch and Caribbean culture. It offers a unique island experience you won’t find anywhere else in the Caribbean. Destination Distance from Aruba Venezuela 15 miles (24 km) Miami, Florida 1,700 miles (2,700 km) Bonaire 50 miles (80 km) Curaçao 80 miles (130 km) “Aruba’s close proximity to the South American mainland and its position outside the Caribbean hurricane belt make it a unique and desirable destination.” The “One Happy Island” of the Dutch Caribbean Aruba is a beautiful island known as the “One Happy Island.” It has a special political status in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In 1986, it became an autonomous country within the Kingdom, after being part of the Netherlands Antilles. Part of the Netherlands Antilles Before becoming autonomous, Aruba was part of the Netherlands Antilles. This group included Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Sint Maarten, and Saba. It was a part of the aruba netherlands antilles region. In 1986, Aruba chose to leave the Netherlands Antilles to become an aruba autonomous country. This move was made for more self-rule and independence. The aruba dutch caribbean island became its own country on January 1, 1986. The Netherlands Antilles was dissolved in 2010. Now, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten are the three countries in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This setup lets Aruba be its own country but still be part of the Kingdom. It keeps its aruba political status. “Aruba is a unique destination within the aruba netherlands antilles region, offering visitors a blend of Dutch-influenced culture, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant island lifestyle.” Being an autonomous country has helped Aruba become a top tourist spot. It’s known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and rich culture. Visitors can enjoy the island life and see the natural beauty of Aruba. Where in the Caribbean is Aruba? Aruba is a beautiful island in the southern Caribbean Sea. It’s just outside the hurricane belt, making it a safe spot all year. It’s about 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, part of the Leeward Antilles islands. Geographically, Aruba is positioned about 1,700 miles (2,700 km) south of Miami, Florida, and 50 miles (80 km) north of the Venezuelan mainland. This spot lets Aruba mix Caribbean and South American vibes in its culture and scenery. Looking at where is aruba located in caribbean on a map shows it’s on the southern edge of the Caribbean Sea. It’s outside the hurricane path. This makes Aruba a top pick for those wanting sun, sand, and peace. Aruba’s aruba geography is flat and dry, unlike many other Caribbean islands. Its unique landscape and aruba location map make it stand out in the Caribbean. “Aruba is a small island, but it’s packed with natural beauty, cultural richness, and an unparalleled sense of relaxation.” Aruba’s Climate and Natural Wonders Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, has a great climate and diverse nature. It draws visitors from all over with its warm, sunny, and dry weather. This makes it a top spot for escaping daily life. The aruba climate has temperatures from the mid-80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit all year. It gets very little rain, with about 16 inches annually. So, you can expect lots of sunny days and clear blue waters. The aruba landscape is full of different natural sights. You’ll see desert-like areas and beautiful white sand beaches. The island is also home to unique plants and animals like the divi-divi tree and the Aruban burrowing owl. “Aruba’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking. The combination of the island’s arid landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters is simply unparalleled.” – John Smith, travel writer One of the top sights in aruba natural attractions is its unique rock formations and cacti. You can visit Arikok National Park to see the island’s varied ecosystems and geological wonders. Looking for a beach vacation or an adventure? Aruba’s great aruba weather and beautiful landscapes make it a memorable trip for everyone. Getting to Aruba: Air and Cruise Travel Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, is easy to get to for travelers worldwide. It’s in a great spot with good transport links, making it simple to visit. You can choose to fly or take a cruise to get there, depending on what you like. Major Airports and Flight Routes Queen Beatrix International Airport is Aruba’s main airport, near Oranjestad. It has many flights from big cities in the US, Canada, and Europe. You can fly from places like Miami, Atlanta, New York, and Amsterdam with different airlines. Getting to Aruba is easy because of its location in the southern Caribbean. You can take direct or connecting flights, depending on where you’re coming from and what you prefer. Cruise Ship Ports and Itineraries Aruba is also a key stop for cruise ships. The main cruise terminal is in Oranjestad, making it easy for ships to dock. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line often stop here on their Caribbean trips. Visitors love Aruba for its beautiful beaches, lively culture, and many things to see. When in port, you can really experience what makes Aruba special. Airport Airlines Destinations Queen Beatrix International Airport American Airlines, JetBlue, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, KLM Miami, New York, Atlanta, Houston, Toronto, Amsterdam Cruise Ship Ports Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line Southern Caribbean Itineraries “Aruba is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a seamless and unforgettable Caribbean experience. With its well-connected airports and cruise ports, reaching this stunning island has never been easier.” Exploring Aruba’s Beaches and Landscapes Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, is famous for its beautiful beaches and varied landscapes. The island boasts iconic spots like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, drawing visitors with their untouched coastlines and blue waters. Beyond the shores, Aruba’s desert-like terrain is full of natural marvels waiting to be discovered. Top Beaches and Coastal Areas Aruba’s beaches are a true wonder. Palm Beach is a favorite for those who love sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, thanks to its soft sand and palm trees. Eagle Beach, often named one of the world’s top beaches, offers vast sandy stretches and calm waves. Malmok Beach, on the northwest coast, is a go-to for snorkelers and divers, with its rich underwater life. Aruba’s Arikok National Park is another gem, showing off the island’s unique geology and varied landscapes. Here, visitors can wander through desert-like terrain, see rare cacti and wildlife, and be amazed by the park’s natural beauty. “Aruba’s beaches are truly a destination unlike any other, with their pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes.” – Lonely Planet Looking for relaxation, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature? Aruba’s beaches and landscapes have it all. From the famous Palm Beach to hidden coastal spots, the island’s aruba beaches, aruba coastal areas, aruba landscape, and aruba nature will leave a lasting impression. Discovering Aruba’s Culture and History Aruba’s culture is a mix of Dutch, Spanish, and Arawak influences. This shows its history as a Dutch Caribbean island. The capital, Oranjestad, has Dutch-style buildings. The food, music, and festivals show the island’s rich heritage. Before Europeans came in the 16th century, the Arawak people lived in Aruba. They left a lasting cultural impact. The Spanish and then the Dutch colonized the island, making it part of the Netherlands Antilles. Now, Aruba celebrates its Dutch-Caribbean identity with cultural events, museums, and landmarks. Arawak Heritage and Dutch Influence The Arawak people, Aruba’s first inhabitants, greatly influenced the island’s culture. Their art, like pottery and basket weaving, is still seen today. The Arawak language also added words and phrases to the local dialect. The Dutch influence is clear in Aruba’s architecture, food, and celebrations. Oranjestad’s buildings show Dutch style with their bright colors and narrow streets. Dutch dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and funchi (cornmeal fritters) are popular. Aruba’s festivals and events show its diverse culture. The Carnival mixes Dutch, Spanish, and Arawak traditions. There are parades, music, and colorful costumes. Museums like the Aruba Archaeological Museum and the Aruba Historical Museum offer insights into Aruba’s history and its heritage. “Aruba’s cultural tapestry is a testament to its resilience and the blending of diverse traditions, creating a truly unique and captivating island experience.” Outdoor Adventures and Activities in Aruba Aruba, known as the “One Happy Island” in the Dutch Caribbean, is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It has clear waters, gentle winds, and varied landscapes. This makes it perfect for many exciting activities. Water Sports and Land Excursions Activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are popular in Aruba. They let visitors see the colorful marine life and underwater sights. If you prefer staying on land, there are hiking trails, ATV tours, and horseback riding for an adrenaline rush. Aruba also offers birdwatching, off-road adventures, and exploring its natural beauty. Don’t miss the Casibari Rock Formations and Arikok National Park. They are stunning examples of Aruba’s unique landscapes. FAQ Where is Aruba located in the Caribbean? Aruba is in the southern Caribbean Sea, 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. It’s part of the Leeward Antilles, along with Curaçao and Bonaire. What is Aruba’s political status? Aruba is its own country but is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It shares this status with the Netherlands, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. Before, it was part of the Netherlands Antilles. What is Aruba’s climate and landscape like? Aruba has a warm, sunny, and dry climate all year. Temperatures range from the mid-80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. The island has a varied landscape with desert-like areas, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. How can travelers get to Aruba? Getting to Aruba is easy with flights from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The main airport is Queen Beatrix International Airport near Oranjestad. Cruise ships also stop here, with the main terminal in Oranjestad. What are some of the top attractions and activities in Aruba? Aruba is famous for its beautiful beaches like Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. It also has the Arikok National Park. You can enjoy water sports, land tours, birdwatching, and exploring natural spots. What is the cultural and historical background of Aruba? Aruba’s culture mixes Dutch, Spanish, and Arawak influences. Oranjestad shows off Dutch-style buildings. The island’s food, music, and festivals reflect its rich heritage.

[jjspina]

Last post from Aruba - going home soon!

[abhix123]

Embrace Joy in the Caribbean's One Happy Island

Aruba, famously known as "One Happy Island," is a captivating Caribbean destination that enchants visitors with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. This small island, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and an atmosphere of sheer joy that makes it a beloved spot for travelers worldwide.

[findamericanrentals]

Title -

Aruba Vacation Apartment Rentals By Owner

Description - Blue Residences, a condominium complex, located along Eagle Beach in Aruba, one of the most beautiful and friendly islands in the Caribbean, also known as One Happy Island. Our accommodations are the perfect vacation rental for your family getaway to relax and unwind.

[spark-nomad]

Discover Romance and Adventure on Aruba’s One Happy Island

[kikotapasando]

ARUBA TA UN "ONE HAPPY ISLAND", NO TIN LUGA PA TRAFICACION DI HENDE NI PA SCLAVITUD MODERNO

[raleksd]

(via T-shirt respirant for Sale avec l'œuvre « ARUBA - UNE ÎLE HEUREUSE » de l'artiste Frantz CIALEC)

Hey you!!

Just sold"Aruba -

 One Happy Island"

Sold recently  at my redbubble online gallery. Manny Thanks to the buyer from United States for the purchase of one product at my redbubble online gallery with around 5413 designs available on so many products!!

Every day new products are available.

Have a wonderful Thursday

Thanks for your visit,

Stay tuned!!

[postcards-to-home]

Letting Go: 2023

‘Have you taken a look at your old posts?” Yes, sort of, thats kind of what brought me to dig that password out again to make a post. “Well read them again. They’re pretty…inspirational actually. Truly. Just please do it.”

Shape of You/ Ed Sheeran

Fitting 9 people deep into a 5 seater Toyota Fitz at 2 am was not how I anticipated starting the year off. Riding the center console with all the windows rolled up I wondered out loud who the hell was sober enough to drive this thing back to the Aruba Beach Club? Last I recalled we had closed Ricardo's down after slamming over 100 beers in 3 hours, with a unanimous cry from the bartenders, ``You guys broke the record of the most beers ever consumed in one shift.``We’d managed to hit downtown, with chaos tailing closely behind us until open signs flickered off. Someplace between the Ritz and Hilton we huddled on the beach forming a semi circle around a fat Dutchmaster with our fingers cupping the flame of a single lighter. The waves trickled below the pier we stood on as we watched the boats pass between Venezuela and our tiny island of Aruba. Leave it to D-rock to get weed immediately after passing through customs. As a gang of cousins, It was a first for us to all be together overseas. There was peace between us all as we star gazed, except for Tyler filming himself in the background talking about "getting his bag" and "visiting the red-light district". Good Ole Frank shoved us into the clown car half dead at 3 am managing to hit every speed bump he could until we crash landed at the ABC hotel. Jason never made it out of bed the next day and Frank managed to be at the pool by 9. I understand entirely how we are family after that joy ride.

Im Good (Blue) // David Guetta & Bebe Rexha

Trips with family are always special and I wish I could have had that same feeling I had cruising down the Aruban highway at 3am as I did in Las Vegas this year for my Bachelorette party. While It didn’t pan out that way that I had pictured in my mind, those that made the journey sure did make me smile. The trip itself panned out so far in the other direction I actually wondered if anyone would give a shit about that one time I had 3 vodka cranberries on a vintage casino tour where I took pictures of the retro shag rugs with cowboys on them and fell asleep by 10pm sharp. It was the same trip in which I got to dress up like a bedazzled flamingo and had all my besties shower me with love, something I can't be thankful enough for. They had the ball literally dropped on their heads and they managed to keep moving forward with my happiness as the focus. It wouldn't have been a "Nicole" Trip if I didn't make a fool of myself at least once. I realized after I got off the elevator that my underwear were in fact tucked into the outside of my shirt with the worst part being I was 100% sober. Despite no one winning thousands of dollars or managing to buy a lap dance we did trek through the desert in a hot pink jeep and that was the highlight of the entire trip.After that, we flew home, we threw out anything that had to do with those that hurt us intentionally and we let that shit go.

When I grow up // The pussycat Dolls

Fast Car// Luke Combs

The year snowballed, and if I may, I’d like to address the elephant in the room. I’ll save everyone the details but I hope this is the last year of my life I have to experience the sudden violent interjection of a fentanyl overdose once again and the familiar destruction it brings. I hope those reading never have to live with seeing your family crowded around the kitchen window sobbing as you see your uncle bent over, dead on the sofa from a coke overdose.Upsetting and startling to read? Yes, but at least he wasn't found crumpled in a ball on the bathroom floor like his son was.  It was of no surprise to receive the news, still tragic no less. It's the one time in my life I wish my intuition was wrong. My mom reminded me I’d called it,emphasizing the need to never tell her in advance when my spidey senses tell me things are going to go south with someone. I had no memory of telling cousin Robert this in January but he wasted no time reminding everyone I knew this would happen before it happened. Jay and I spoke to the officer at the scene on a first name basis hearing “This is the 9th one this week.” It clicked there standing in the rain that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, something I said to Tommy at 9 years old. He was pretty pissed to hear that back then as a 15 year old delinquent. Yet here I am breathing and his ashes are now somewhere in the Moab desert, Schaghticoke, with bitch face and gram down at the cemetery in Cohoes . It was bad enough we buried aunt Ona next to Gram on Thursday but having to go back on Friday to bury Jr in the adjacent plot the following day was just simply too much for us. Maybe we all should have taken those free narcans Grandma Debbie was giving out two Decembers ago that she got from the county jail. But I'll let that thought go.

Way of the Truine God// Tyler Childs

There came a point in the year where pounding the pavement felt like second nature. Work, farm, picking, shows, repeat.Toggling google maps and driving down back country roads into no mans land had me thinking I was pioneering my own adventure.But then standing outside some abandoned house, freezing in line with #27 stuffed in my back pocket I would wonder , is this even fucking worth it? Somewhere close by a  grouchy bastard cranked a heater next to me mumbling about the cast iron pan he wants at the sale. “Cheap thrills” Id giggle sifting through some dead person's Attic knee deep in a mouse house. I drove chaotically through the tri-county region slinging antiques, singing reggaeton of all things at the top of my lungs, driving down 787 doing 90 in a 65mph. We  trucked car loads of plants to antique shows this year all thanks to Dad, Jay mom and Toni. Success is easy when you have a mini squad of family cheering you on the sidelines, willingly sacrificing Saturday mornings to unload trailers at 7am. I was living the dream and my heart would explode on the good days. On the bad days I’d doubt myself but maybe it was willpower, or just simply my spirit throttling my vessel screaming “ You’ve got this,” but It all worked out the way either way.I let my doubt go.

Just Breathe// Pearl Jam

I understood the meaning of family even more when Jimmy and I were sipping Vodka sodas at the Saratoga Civic Center watching Marissa cross the stage for her high school graduation. Somewhere in between slow sipping and clapping Jen lost her large $1 Mcdonalds diet coke all over the venue floor.Poppy with no hearing aids stood by with judgment in his eyes while I took “Obituary” pictures. He wondered out loud "What the hell is going on," but his voice was lost in the crowd and he couldn't give damn.

Just like we did 7 summers ago, we took that first ride out to college for move in day except this time it was Marissa's turn.We dropped  Marissa off at college just two weeks shy of Jay and I’s wedding wondering what would transpire in the two weeks before her return. We conspired how her first term would go over chili and chicken tenders at the only bar in town. I heard alot of bitching about leaving a purse behind a dumpster and “I need a fucking smoke.” between gram and pops. With a black coffee and fresh pack of reservation grade cigs, poppy and I hit the road home from SUNY Morrisville. Believe it or not pops spent the entire two hours chatting about the past in a way I never knew he was capable of. I'll never see him the same way again, and i'm content with it. We started out with “ I dont believe in god so when I'm gone just do whatever makes you guys feel good,” and ended with “ I’m glad we got to talk to Nicole, I really liked it. I still don't believe in God but I believe you speak to my mom in your dreams and I can’t explain that.” It was an entire short novel of everything I ever wanted to know explained all at once leaving me with sentiments of peace.

Drive//Alan Jackson

The pivot towards happily ever after did not commence until walking back up the aisle to catch a drink in my hand.  What a magical day we had. Chalking the day up in my mind I anticipated something far less significant than what had actually happened, simply put, a beautiful day. A day that was talked about with anxiety and ten tons of stress for nearly two years straight, amassing to a single day of blissful drinking surrounded by LOVE and all our favorite people. It felt like our own movie premier, except it was the start our "New life". We had a crowd of family stare at us with tears of laughter in their eyes as we shared our first dance to Hootie and the Blow fish’s “Only wanna be with you." If you're wondering it was totally the wrong choice, last minute and we weren't nearly drunk enough to hide how mortified we were swinging each other round and round. Endless bouts of laughter rang throughout the entire night helping to deflect the thought that some of my favorite people in the world weren’t able to be in attendance that day. Despite the potential for rain as my dad predicted, the day was nothing but sunshine and bliss. A few people cried over their ex’s in the corner that I never saw while one guy went fishing in the pond catching a small mouth bass. Shortly after that he managed to drop an entire keg on his head leaving an egg sized welt on his forehead perfectly positioned for his headlamp to rest on. It all came to an end with everyone barefoot, slurring words in the barn at 2 am, muddy from drunkenly falling down the hill that the barn sat upon. With ruined dresses, we ran out of water and woke the next day with black feet and nothing but giggles. 

Galaxy// Quavo

Controversial to popular opinion, honeymoons are not easy breezy lemon squeezy and probably shouldn't be taken immediately after your wedding day unless you're prepared to melt from exhaustion prior to landing someplace thousands of miles from home. I will admit it was pretty cool to ride in a cop car through Newark airport while also being personally escorted through TSA all thanks to Josh. After that Jay and I tumbled fast, hitting EU soil with peak levels of bitchiness letting Mallorca test my zen before even getting there. European mannerisms are something we are still coming to terms with and my Spanish is still B2 at best despite Laura’s constant push for me to do more and be better. "Nico, you can do this, it will be easy, you know this." No one told me it was Catalonian Spanish..

If it weren't for Jason driving on 3 hours of sleep and a Xanax I'm not sure we would have survived the first 8 hours on the island (Ok I would have made it but it wouldn't have been an endless laugh).There is no other person on this earth I could imagine driving a fiat with into a plaza full of people..No one else I could picture driving down a one lane country rode with singing Quavos “Fuel Up” and crashing into a rock wall,forcing me to get out of the car and wave down a local for support. It would have been pretty awesome if a camera crew appeared to remind us of that moment of defeat when I bitchly slammed the car door in jays face, saying “STFU ill fix this,” while he sat defeated from the days series of unfortunate events. That tire was the only thing preventing us from entering an air-conditioned unit and I wasn't going to let my man melt away. Senior Tony came to the rescue after I waved him down through barbed fencing, letting me into his gated home to ask in Spanish for support along with his wifi password. All that to find out the parking break was jammed and our rental house had timed AC of 1 hour a day from 3-4am. 

Still,there's no person other than Jay i’d rather crash our vespa with in deadstop traffic just moments before returning the rental. Jay and I are what romcoms are made from. We lived it, we survived and we laughed the entire ride down the one lane mountain rode in one piece. We trash talked the guy with "Love” tattooed on his neck that told jay to never ride a vespa again because he's never been so scared in his life to watch a man ride one like jay.Jay's also the guy I can always count on to make friends with the black girls with the speaker and meet random townies at the bar with. His energy is truly unmatched. Bless his heart for picking me, his one beer queer that pees in dirt parking lots at 10pm on our honeymoon to live with the rest of his life.

6PM en Mallorca/ Eladio Carrion

There would be days where I was simply vibrating with the need to do it all at once and then some on an empty stomach and a few energy drinks. Healthy wasn't on my radar so I suffered the consequences. It shouldn't have been shocking to learn I was diagnosed with HSP (Highly sensitive person) but to be simply put, it felt like someone gave me the answer I’d been looking for my whole life. Jokingly, I now had an excuse for my hangry episodes, dramatic mood drops and inability to tolerate social outings for longer than 2.5 hours before committing an Irish goodbye home to charge my social battery. Swan would say “Hey Nicole, hows your HSP these days,” like an asshole and we’d all laugh at the thought of me actually having a real life crisis and not something I exaggerated. With this revelation I was mildly pissed because it meant Taylor was sort of right in saying I was autistic all those years ago. While she was sneaking cookies in her sock drawer, feeding her 8 month pregnant belly on the o there side of our shared wall, she screamed at me I was autistic because I didn’t care for loud noises or her shitty attitude. On the spectrum or not, I'll let that go too.

Seasons change and things wound down. It's January as I write this with my health intact along with everything else in my mental portfolio. I've stopped hearing from my manager “ Nicole Im worried about your mental health, maybe you should take time off.”  and instead I'm hearing from those around me “Congratulations" and "you should feel so proud." I am proud actually, its a new feeling. I learnt a lot of lessons this year but ultimately it boils down to one simple message that applies to every facet of our existence: Light & Love. Thats it.

As long as youre striving to be as close to light and love as possible, whatever that is for you, then it will all work out in the end. And It really has. My whole life feels lighter just knowing as long as I gravitate towards genuine love and goodness, all good things will follow and come back.

  "The whole universe is always about love and when it isnt about love its about the absence of love."

Thanks for reading,

NRCM

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