Author: Cate Tracey

Congratulations to Jess and Dallas!

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On Thursday afternoon I wrapped up my workday as quickly as possible so I could fly to Southern California and celebrate two of my good friends. Jess and I met through work about a year and a half ago and instantly clicked, so being invited to celebrate her love and special day with her fiancée Dallas was a huge honor.

I stayed in Huntington Beach my first night and it felt great to grab the rental car, some Flaming Hot Cheetos and get some good sleep. My host was so sweet and gave me local recommendations for my next morning, which I appreciated very much. On Friday morning, I drove along the Pacific Highway and got to dip my toes in the Pacific Ocean once more.

(Well, maybe it wasn’t as graceful as dipping my toes, but you get the point!)

I arrived at the perfect time before it got too busy, and luckily I was able to change into my shorts in the car once the waves took over my dry jeans! I changed, then ran to the ocean as quickly as I could, feeling like a little kid on a family vacation all over again. I smiled and laughed and let the sun hit my face while the waves drew me in. If only I’d had more time to enjoy it…

I knew I had to leave and I did at the perfect time; it was time for a nearly two-hour drive east toward Temecula, for a quick stop at my next and final AirBnB so I could attend the big event. I made it just in time and headed over to Lake Oak Winery — one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been invited to in my lifetime.

Another one of my favorite coworkers was invited to the wedding, and hanging out with Jeff and his wife Karen made my night even more fun and special! The drinks and conversation flowed the whole time, even in the beginning… Jess and Dallas’s ceremony was beautiful and made me tear up right away. It was amazing seeing one of my somewhat newer friends marry the love of her life — who is also quickly becoming a dear friend of mine, too. Both of my friends looked absolutely stunning in their dresses, but their smiles and reactions to each other were even more beautiful. Jeff, Karen and I were immediately in tears as we saw both brides meet each other to walk down the isle together. We couldn’t have been any happier for people who deserved it more than anyone!

The next morning, I had nice conversation with my AirBnB host before meeting Jeff and Karen for a much-needed espresso martini and goat cheese pizza (yes, you heard that correctly!). I swear I could sit and talk with Karen and Jeff all day long; they made my solo trip to California better than I could’ve imagined. After parting ways, I decided to spend the afternoon at Glen Ivy Hot Springs on my way northwest back to LAX. It was the perfect day full of sunshine, gratitude and calmness before taking a redeye flight home.

As much fun as I had, I realized how solo travel isn’t as appealing to me anymore (never thought you’d hear me say that, huh?!). I missed Alex like crazy. Although we haven’t been together more than a couple months, I feel like I’ve known him my whole life. He’s my favorite travel buddy, is the love of my life and has quickly become my best friend. Every text, photo update of his and Linley’s “bro weekend,” phone call or video call lit my heart up immensely. As honored as I was to be there for Jess and Dallas and to spend more time with Jeff and Karen, it would’ve been exponentially better had he been there by my side. Taking a redeye Spirit flight was trash to say the very least, but worth it because I wanted to rush back to see Alex and our pup!

All in all, it was an amazing weekend in Southern California, but I’m happy to be back home. 💛

Media taken Friday, October 13 and Saturday, October 14, 2023.

September 2023 Progress & Gratitude

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September has been one of the most positive and transformative months I’ve had all year. I couldn’t be happier in my relationship with Alex, in my new Atlanta home, and with where the rest of 2023 is heading. Before I get too lost in the future, I wanted to reflect on the past month and how much has changed – and how much I’ve grown – in this short period of time.

Two of Alex’s closest friends got engaged earlier in September, and I was able to be part of their special day. I feel blessed to have a partner and best friend who makes me feel so included, and to have a dad who helped me move all the way from Michigan!

I haven’t laughed or celebrated this hard and this much in a long time! September brought many cherished memories with Alex, Emily (who visited me my second weekend of being a new Atlanta resident!) and people I’ve met along the way.

Alex and I also celebrated his best friend from high school as she married the love of her life last weekend. We look forward to many more weddings and milestone celebrations together!

We befriended a lovely couple at Amy’s and Danny’s welcome dinner!

Coworkers-turned-friends

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I’ve been an Atlanta resident for exactly one week, and as happy and at home as I feel here, I miss my friends I met through work. This time last year I left Chicago for Michigan on much different terms (going through a divorce, feeling lost, unsure of the future) and now it’s the complete opposite—all thanks to my support system who helped me through difficult times back home.

I wouldn’t be the confident woman standing in Atlanta today if I didn’t have these friends by my side this past year. I only wish they were here with me. 💛

Vancouver to Seattle

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I love Alex. I love Vancouver. I love Seattle. I love all the memories made and food we ate and drinks we downed and laughs we shared. This adventure couldn’t have gone any better. As bittersweet as it was to leave Vancouver – and inch toward concluding our trip altogether – I know my move to Atlanta is approaching and I couldn’t be more excited about my/our future.

Alex and I stopped at a Chinese bakery on our way out of the city on Sunday, and ironically ran into Uncle Joe and Aunt Trish again! We shared some quick hugs and laughs regarding the situation, then bounced to get through customs and return the rental car in Seattle at a decent time. When the representative at customs asked how we knew each other, we both looked at one another and said, “We’re dating,” all giddy like we were kids again haha.

Our afternoon was spent wandering around Pike Place after dropping off the car and our bags, and I started to feel like myself again (my nightmares and wildfire smoke ingestion made me feel like I’d been in a fog all morning). Another Irish pub drinks and food, along with enjoying Alex’s company through the market as we checked out different stores, made everything better. I’d been to that area only once before, and holding Alex’s hand this time made for a much different and insurmountably fulfilling experience. We freshened up, met his cousin Jason for drinks at a local bar, and even made a new stranger-turned-friend Jennifer!

As enjoyable as a day I’d had with Alex, the best was yet to come; Alex had been on a boat tour a few days prior but recommended we go together at sunset this time. It didn’t disappoint! In fact, it was nothing short of magical (sorry, Disney!) With white wine and chips in tow, Alex and I snuggled up next to each other and soaked in the sun and the views. We saw other ships pass by and the sunset was awe-inspiring. The photos Alex and I took together are perfect representations of how much fun I was having—and how much I deeply care about this man. Heck, we even saw orcas, which I didn’t even see in Iceland! It was super sweet because Alex waited for me by the ladder from the bathroom, and helped me up so I could watch the whales with him. 💛

I always pose with both our drinks, so I made Alex do the same 😅🙈
Posting this one for you, Alex, because it’s your favorite ☺️
One of my personal favorites 🤩

Seeing the city at night was super cool, despite it being “the end.” Alex and I were given a blanket to cuddle up in and we definitely made the most of it. What an amazing bookend to an unforgettable vacation! Instead of seafood one last time, we went to a sketchy McDonald’s and enjoyed eating in bed before spending one last night in the Pacific Northwest together. I can’t wait to spend more time with Alex once I move in a few days; I miss him already.

Media taken Sunday, August 27, 2023.

Saturday in Vancouver

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…and here I thought Friday was the perfect day…

Saturday was *even more* sentimental for me. After some subpar Turkish coffee, Alex and I hit the bike rental place and rode through Stanley Park for a few hours in the morning. I’d done rides along Lake Michigan in Chicago and Mackinac Island and other cities, but I’ve never done anything like that with a guy—especially *my* guy. I was enjoying the views but being behind Alex really distracted me, haha! I felt like a kid again, riding downhill with my legs stretched out and yelling “woo!” I even took a dip in the ocean and wished I had my swimsuit on. To my surprise, I wasn’t sore from the uphill trek and every visitor should rent a bike and check out Stanley Park.

Although nervous, I was excited to meet Alex’s uncle, aunt and some family friends at a Chinese seafood restaurant just outside of Vancouver. I felt incredibly welcomed and Alex made me feel important—truly like a priority in his life, and in his family. I’m glad I wore a dress instead of pants because all the scallops, shrimp dumplings, crab paella and mango pudding I ate was out of this world! And the conversation was as filling as the food. Alex, his Uncle Joe, Aunt Trish and I even went to a Chinese market in the mall afterward and it was nice to have that extra time with them.

After a much-needed late afternoon nap and refresh, Alex and I meandered through a local block party, where Alex bought me some art and we shared some drinks and laughs at a local Irish pub with live music. Every moment like this makes me fall for him more and more; I haven’t felt this intrigued in and this important to anyone ever before.

There was another restaurant Alex spotted that was near our waterfront bar the night before, so we obviously had to check it out! It was our last night in Vancouver before heading back to Seattle, and I was savoring the espresso martinis, seafood and memories with Alex tenfold.

We both agreed we’d be back. 💛

Photos taken Saturday, August 26, 2023.

Friday in Vancouver

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I wrote about Alex’s and my seaplane experience, but the rest of our Friday in Vancouver was just as incredible!

My buddy Eli – who we met up with in Seattle – recommended we check out Cactus Club and Jade Dynasty for drinks and dim sum, respectively. Alex and I wandered around Vancouver and although we saw some rough things in the streets, it was nice to hold Alex’s hand and talk to him about my past. Being able to share that with someone who is curious about me as much as I’m curious about them is unique and special and something I’ll never take for granted.

After great food and drinks (Eli’s recommendations didn’t disappoint!), we freshened up and headed back out for an evening stroll along the water. We took some goofy photos, shared some laughs, decided we’re too poor to ever own a yacht, and even heard some live jazz music on our walk to a beautiful waterfront bar. Alex and I enjoyed some fancy drinks, I indulged in more oysters and soaked in the view and good conversation. We decided to hit up a Malaysian place on our walk back that piqued our interest earlier on the trip.

I’m looking forward to more adventures with Alex!

Photos taken on Friday, August 25, 2023.

Vancouver Harbor Air Seaplane Experience

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When Alex and I first matched online, he was telling me about his much-anticipated solo trip to Vancouver—including his seaplane tour. I’d never been on a seaplane and thought this was totally badass! Before Alex and I even met in person earlier this month, he asked me to join him on the trip, noting that he didn’t want to go solo AND really wanted me to join him on the adventure. I was extremely flattered (I still am!) and can easily say this was one of the coolest experiences of not only Vancouver, but of my travel memories to-date.

Despite the check in process being a tad clunky and disorganized, the chaos was worth it and the plane rides couldn’t have gone smoother. The plane was super small, and Alex had the opportunity to ride up front on our way to the first island. I was giddy and excited and happy for him! I was pumped he was able to experience something like this—especially when he’d booked these flights months ago. I was also able to ride in the front after Alex, before finally being able to sit next to him once more. I would’ve been happy and excited had he not been able to add me to his reservation, but I’ll be forever grateful to have this memory with Alex. Alex, if you’re reading this, thank you for yet another unforgettable memory together!

Media taken Friday, August 25, 2023.

Seattle to Vancouver

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Before I begin to write about my adventures in the Pacific Northwest, the jaunt from my house to the Detroit metro airport deserves a shoutout. I survived what was probably my scariest driving experience to-date (yes, even worse than the Michigan winter blizzards!) and met incredibly kind strangers along the way. The women getting on the airport shuttle and the passengers next to me on my flight to Seattle were amazing—as was the badass shuttle driver who pulled off this stunt:

I couldn’t wait to see Alex again after not seeing him for a few weeks. Our weekend in Atlanta was perfection and I couldn’t wait to be in his arms and presence once more. I also felt lucky enough to still meet his best friend (also coincidentally named Alex!) even though my flight was delayed a couple hours.

Before heading north to Vancouver, Alex and I met one of my coworkers-turned-friends Eli, who I’d actually never met in person until then. We ate delicious sandwiches and talked as though we’d all known each other for quite some time. Eli is seriously the sweetest and I’ll miss working with him very much! It was great to meet up and I know we’ll stay in touch.

The drive, the border crossing, and the much-needed map were all great and easy. I can’t put into words how much simply being next to Alex and experiencing all these little things with him means to me; I never thought I’d ever find love again – or at all – and I can honestly say that I’ve *never* had anything quite like *this.* Alex has quickly become my best friend.

We enjoyed drinks at a local French-style bar and a lovely dinner on Granville Island in Vancouver, where we ate our bodyweight in oysters, crab, yellowtail sashimi, Brussels sprouts and chowder. It was the perfect start to what was an effortlessly perfect vacation with Alex. 💛

Media taken Thursday, August 24, 2023.

August Gratitude

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I wrote about my weekend in Grand Rapids and still can’t comprehend how perfect it was! I’ve been reflecting on my year in Michigan, what it’s like to be moving now vs. what it was like to move this time last year during the height of my divorce… It’s been an extremely cathartic and spiritual process. And with that, I can’t help but be grateful for the month I’ve had thus far.

The beginning of something beautiful with Alex 💛
Leaving “my Alex” and running into one of my best friends Alex at the Atlanta airport!
Reuniting for drinks with my high school golf coach!
Golfing at sunrise with my dad 💛
A fun weekend with an old friend, and a few new ones ☺️
My dad wanting to take Linley to Home Depot!
Hitting up Two James in Detroit with one of my best friends 🍸
Linley stalking a baby raccoon in the neighbor’s shed
Making new friends with an old one 💛
A fun night in Ann Arbor with Emily and Zac!
Morning walks with Linley
Brewery Nyx last weekend 🍻
Ladies night!
A much-needed beach day with one of my oldest and closest friends 💛
Homemade pizza with one of my oldest and closest friends (and her lovely husband!)
Even Linley made a new friend this month!

Photos taken Thursday, August 3 through Monday, August 21, 2023.

West side, best side!

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I had the best time on the west side of Michigan this weekend! As I approach my move-in date in Atlanta, I’ve been cherishing every moment with my closest friends here.

One of my coworkers-turned-friends is also celiac, and we hit up an all GF brewery in Grand Rapids, Michigan called Brewery NYX. I haven’t had such good beer in over eight years! The food, the beer, the laughs… I definitely needed it! I had such a fun afternoon with this lovely group of ladies.

After parting ways with Danielle, Tara, Maggie and Cheryl, I headed to my friend Crystal’s to hang out with even more wonderful ladies! Crystal and two of her girlfriends who I’ve become close with this year – Sam and Mercedes – invited me to an all-female event called “The Sorry Papi Tour – The All Girl Party,” which featured Latina DJs, an all-female staff AND all-female audience! It was wonderful! I haven’t felt so safe being myself and dancing like I do in a club EVER. It was such a great feeling reuniting with Sam and Mercedes, and of course seeing my dear friend Crystal is always a treat. My ladies and me had the best night (I just wish I remembered more of it, haha!)

Last but not least, I woke up around 10:30am on Sunday (which is rare for me!) and I headed west to Holland, Michigan where I’d be meeting one of my best friends from college. KayLee and I have been close since 2015 and it was amazing to hang out with them on different terms. In June when I saw them last, we were both going through a hard time. Now, we’re both out from it and are on the other side. Talking with KayLee on the beach, swimming and grabbing some good grub was much-needed – and a great ending to a great weekend!

I could easily say something like “I just wish I had more time with everyone” and of course that’s true… but nothing about my weekend felt rushed or inauthentic in any way. I value(d) all parts of my weekend – including my phone calls with friends on the way there and back – and couldn’t have asked for anything more. Until next time, Grand Rapids!

Photos taken Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20, 2023.

July 2023 Progress & Gratitude

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I have so much to be grateful for heading into my final month in Michigan 💛

Lunch with my favorite ladies!
Dinner with Emily and the ‘rents!
Meeting new people and eating great food!
Concerts with Emily!
Reuniting with my cousin and meeting her fiancé!
Hanging out with my brother from another mother!
Celebrating my dad’s milestone!

Let’s see what August has in store! 😉

Reclaiming Chicago

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I hadn’t visited my former home since I moved out last September, and man did it feel great to be back!

Last fall I was slowly rebuilding my life after divorce and some unexpected health problems. Although I left Chicago with my head held high, it was extremely difficult to part ways with KP—who has quickly become one of my closest friends. We met spring of 2021 through remote work before I even relocated from the Detroit area, and we’ve been unstoppable ever since. (She’s my friend I crashed the bachelor party in New Orleans with… just sayin’!)

A couple months ago, KP shared that she received free tickets to Sad Summer Fest—which is essentially a watered-down version of Warped Tour. I couldn’t pass that up! I took the train out last Friday and spent the long weekend with one of my best friends, laughing and dancing our time away.

Once we parted ways, I walked along Lake Michigan prior to catching my ride, and I caught a beautiful glimpse of the city. It made me smile from ear to ear knowing how far I’ve come from feeling incredibly broken to fully reestablished and healed. Before bed I also received a video call from someone I care about, which was a great way to round out my first night back in Chicago. 💛

The next day was also well spent at a cute little breakfast spot and some much needed beach time at Caffe Oliva. As soon as we parked near Navy Pier, it started down pouring, and KP and I huddled under an umbrella for nearly twenty minutes! It was worth it because the conversation and best vodka crans in the city were flowing.

Once we had a little time in the sun and a good laugh at KP’s crocheted pants tan line, we drove back to my interesting Airbnb so we could rest and get ready for a fun night out! I then met KP at her place to hang out with Jinx and decide on where to go for dinner. The obvious choice was grabbing espresso martinis and breakfast for dinner around the corner before hitting the late night comedy show. Although some of the comedians weren’t as strong as others, one guy in particular made the evening worth it. I wouldn’t have wanted to sit through any of that with anyone other than KP!

Sunday was chill because we didn’t even meet up until 11 or so, but we ate leftovers and did some thrifting in Andersonville. KP and I also received free coffee drinks at a local cafe because she’s befriended everyone there of course! I seriously can’t wait for our next adventure together. 💛

Photos taken Friday, July 21 through Sunday, July 23, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.