Lessons I’ve Learned During My Birthday in Cancun with Toddlers

1. Time Is Everything 

Living in an RV with two toddlers has taught me that time is precious—and also that silence is suspicious. Kids grow fast, memories fade, and sunsets wait for no one. Whether it’s a family board game gone hilariously wrong or a late-night dog cuddle, these little moments are what life’s about.

In Cancun, time feels slower. It’s like the universe is telling me, “Take a breath, lady. The buffet will still be there in 10 minutes.”

2. It’s Okay to Pivot

This year, I learned that plans are just suggestions. From starting my blog, Her Balanced World, to navigating RV life, nothing went as I expected. I thought this blog would focus on budgeting tips, but now it’s an evolving collection of toddler antics, dog escapades, and RV mishaps.

And let’s not even talk about the time I thought I could DIY our RV’s plumbing. Spoiler: I cannot.

3. Small Wins Add Up

Life is a series of tiny victories. Saving $3 on groceries? Victory. Publishing a blog post? Victory. Convincing my husband to NOT buy another “essential” RV gadget? Massive victory. Cancun is a big win, but it’s the everyday joys (like finding out the resort has churros) that make the journey worthwhile.

What I’m Manifesting for the Year Ahead

1. Connection

I want Her Balanced World to grow into a space where people come to laugh, learn, and share. Whether it’s RV hacks, budget-friendly parenting tips, or just a relatable story about my kids’ latest “masterpiece” on the RV walls, I hope to connect with more amazing readers like you.

2. Balance

Between work, parenting, and chasing dreams, balance feels like a mythical unicorn. But this year, I’m determined to get closer to it—or at least fake it really well. Cancun has reminded me that stepping back and enjoying life’s small moments is the real goal.

3. Growth

I’m manifesting growth for myself, my blog, and my family. More adventures, new opportunities, and maybe (just maybe) learning to rely a little less on coffee. Okay, that last one is probably unrealistic, but a girl can dream.

My Dogs

Let’s talk about the two MVPs of my heart: my dogs. They’re my emotional support fluffballs, the unofficial rulers of the RV, and my daily dose of unconditional love.

Things I Miss Most About My Dogs:

• Their Enthusiastic Greetings: Even if I’ve only been gone for five minutes, they greet me like I’ve returned from an epic journey.
• Their “Helpfulness”: Like the time one of them decided to “help” with laundry by dragging my bra outside.
• Their RV Antics: Every new campground is like Disneyland for them. Watching them discover the same kind of squirrel over and over again never gets old.

Cancun may have sunshine, tacos, and turquoise waters, but it doesn’t have those two adorable faces. And yes, I might have teared up while scrolling through photos of them. Don’t judge me.

Funny Family Moments from the Past Year

RV Mishap of the Year

Picture this: a massive rainstorm, our propane running low, and my husband bravely deciding to move the RV to restock. Heroic, right? Except he forgot one crucial detail—cleaning the top of the slide-out before driving.

Cue an epic waterfall moment. As he pulled out of the spot, all the accumulated rainwater on the slide-out came pouring down… directly onto his head through the open window. It was like the RV itself had decided to play a practical joke. Needless to say, we were both soaked from laughter (and, well, rain).

Toddler Logic

My oldest decided it was time to potty train her plush bunny—because apparently, even stuffed animals need life skills. The chosen “potty”? Our RV’s cup holders. She spent a solid 15 minutes giving the bunny a pep talk about being brave and trying his best, all while I stood there wondering how to explain this to guests. Let’s just say our cup holders are now on a strict “no bunny” policy.

Dog Shenanigans

Our mischievous 5yo, Sarita, decided to channel her inner wildlife documentary star during a beach day at Jekyll Island. She went full-speed after a flock of birds, ignoring every “Sarita, NO!” we yelled. The result? A sliced paw and an emergency vet visit.

Her new reality: bed rest, a bandaged paw, and constant supervision. Our Thanksgiving plans to visit family? Cancelled. Instead, we spent the holiday watching over her like she was the queen of the couch (which, honestly, she thinks she is). Lesson learned: Sarita doesn’t do “rest” quietly. Can you guess in the comments which one is Sarita? 

Your Journal

To celebrate this special day, I’ve created a fun Birthday Manifestation Journal you can print and use to reflect, dream, and plan for the year ahead.

• Reflect on lessons you’ve learned this year.
• Celebrate the things you’re grateful for.
• Manifest your biggest dreams and goals.

Download the Birthday Manifestation Journal