Day Two Hundred Seventy-Five: Where the Desert Meets the Sea

We got to visit the Paracas National Reseve today, which is a fascinating national park where the desert meets the sea. I have never seen a more desolate landscape and was struck by the intense contrast between the sandy desert land and the blue ocean water. It was almost eerie in its barrenness but beautiful nonetheless. I never cease to be amazed at all the wonders of this amazing world!

Where the ocean meets the desert

Day Two: Bikini

Ok, so I technically wore a bikini on my honeymoon. But that was almost 19 years ago, and I wore a cover-up pretty much the entire time, so I think I can still count it as a first. Plus, I definitely haven't worn a bikini since having kids, so there's that. For most of my 40 years, I have been anywhere from somewhat to very uncomfortable in my own skin. I've always seen the flaws (and probably exaggerated them in my mind), and I've always been embarrassed by them. I also spent entirely too much time worrying about what other people might think. But, as I've gotten older, I've learned to appreciate me for who I am, and I've trained myself to ignore the temptation to compare myself to people I know and people I see portrayed in the media. I've also learned that most people aren't thinking anything of me because they are much too busy thinking of themselves. That's why I decided it was time to don a bikini again. My body is not perfect, but it's not something I need to be embarrassed of.

Day One: Palafitos

Today, I am 40, so it's time to get this party started! And, I might as well start with something amazing. From the moment I heard that such a thing as overwater bungalows existed, I have wanted to stay in one. For one reason or another, it has never worked out. But way before I decided to celebrate this big birthday with a Year of Firsts, my incredible husband planned to surprise me with a trip to the new Palafitos (overwater bungalows) in Mexico. It was the perfect gift and a great way to start my Year of Firsts. Here's to being 40 and to having new experiences!

Home sweet palafito

Breakfast in Paradise

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