Do you ever have those days that just seem perfect, like every single thing is going right? And it actually does?! Well, that’s how I felt on Saturday, February 1 when Alex, Linley and I visited Birmingham, Alabama!
It was a beautiful, sunny day and we were excited for a mini-vacay as a family. We started at a fun dog park and bar (ironically called Good Dog Bar and Dog Park), where Lin ran around like a manic… and we were all smiles!
After some runs and fun’s in the sun, we had the best and most filling seafood lunch of my life! Linley was of course getting all the attention, and before Alex and I headed to an Atlanta United soccer game, we had to walk off all our delicious food.
Alex and I had a great time at the soccer game, but we actually left early because we missed Lin so much… haha! It was too nice of a day to have him cooped up inside.
Our evening was just as fun as the rest of our day together; we had some good drinks at a local brewery where two kiddos gave Lin all the attention in the world! It was such a nice evening with great conversation and company. And when we wrapped up there, we had some good bar food and a nice walk to wrap up our evening.
It was truly one of those days where everything went smooth. The drive was great, stopping at Buc-ee’s was awesome, all the activities and sunshine and smiles… everything was picture-perfect in Birmingham!
Photos taken Saturday, February 1, 2025 in Birmingham, Alabama.
I can’t help but feel incredibly blessed lately. I have an amazing group of friends — afar and in Atlanta, I’m enjoying my new job at a different organization, therapy continues to go great and I’m seeing major progress with acceptance lately, and the quality time with Alex and Linley post Lin’s surgery couldn’t be better.
Last weekend, we hopped in the car (I was a little hungover from a fun night with Evelyn before, but I don’t regret it!) and drove down to Savannah, Georgia. It was a lovely belated birthday/early Halloween celebration and everything about the weekend away was wonderful.
After a long drive and some interesting OPL podcast episodes, we finally arrived and walked around Savannah while we waited to check into our Airbnb. We went to one of our favorite brunch spots, Collin’s Quarters, and grabbed a drink and lunch after a beautiful walk through historical Forsyth Park. Luckily Linley was exhausted, so once the Airbnb was ready, Alex and I were able to walk through a historical Civil War cemetery, enjoy a nice seafood dinner and some drinks — followed by a nightcap at a rooftop bar overlooking the river. I love spending time together and walking around with Alex, laughing and getting excited about plans, and checking out new places together.
After a great night’s sleep at our Airbnb, we got ready for another great day at Hilton Head. We arrived at the beach where Linley could run free and enjoy the calm water. We met a lovely couple who Lin kept running up to, but for the most part he was by our side the entire time. I love taking Lin to the beach and it’s really special to share these moments with Alex, too!
The beach was extra special this year because I proposed to Alex. 💛 I’d known I’d wanted to do this for a while, and knew this trip – specifically on the beach – would be the perfect place. Unfortunately, I left my note and ring in the bag at our spot, but while walking with Alex, I told him my intentions — sharing that he’s the best gift I’ve ever been given. I don’t want to wait for our forever to begin. Alex said yes and after our family walk, I gave him the ring and letter from my bag. I could tell Alex was surprised but flattered; all I wanted him to feel was special. It was such a lovely morning all around!
We went to our favorite restaurant afterward: Hudson’s on the Dock. The drinks are delicious and the food is seriously amazing. It’s probably the best seafood I’ve had at a more casual, local place before. Linley enjoyed the sun and meeting other pups on the dock while Alex and I enjoyed some oysters, crab, and other delicious food.
After the hour-long drive back and a solid nap we all needed, we wandered around with Linley once more before heading out on our cemetery tour. Our guide at the Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah was incredibly knowledgeable and the cemetery itself was gorgeous and full of history. We heard stories about the Free Masons, different witch doctors in the south and sadly, how young children was buried there due to lack of medical advances leading up to the 1920s and 30s. I would highly recommend doing a tour of Bonaventure if you ever visit Savannah!
The rest of our evening was great! Alex and I ventured back to the Irish pub we visited last year, saw some friends from Atlanta and met their friends, and enjoyed a nice nighttime walk together. Next year, Alex and I decided that we’ll make our own pub crawl, and each pick a couple bars we want to check out one night.
The next morning was lazy but much-needed before the drive back home. We grabbed coffee then strolled through Forsyth Park once more and dressed Linley up as a ghost again. He did much better in the costume this year, and even got some encouragement from strangers who walked by!
Both trips to Savannah and Hilton head have been lovely, and I’m super excited for next year already!
Media taken Friday, October 25 – Sunday, October 27, 2024.
A few weekends ago, Alex, Linley and I drove from Atlanta to Nashville so I could celebrate one of my best friends during her bachelorette weekend! Turns out there was much more to celebrate — especially because this was Alex’s and my first roadtrip with Lin since his surgery.
The weekend was a perfect storm because the roadtrip to and from was smooth, and we also spent time with Alex’s cousin, Jason. He’s lived in Nashville since 2019 or so, and seeing him is rare (he’s usually traveling all around the world!) On Friday we grabbed dinner with him and laughed until we cried. I always enjoy spending time with Jason and Alex — and I’ll take the time I can get with them together!
Saturday was dedicated to the ladies, and Alex and Lin had some father-son bonding time during the day. It was awesome seeing Carolina and her friends again, and meeting a couple new ones, too! Even though I’m not a bridesmaid, it meant the world that Carolina included me in her weekend festivities. While Alex and Lin had their quality time together, us ladies grabbed brunch and some of us got flash tattoos before heading out at night.
Jason, Alex and Linley hung out the rest of the day and evening together. Meanwhile Carolina, Steph, Ellen, Asia, Chloe and I relaxed at their Airbnb, played drinking games and got ready for a fun night on Broadway. Normally going out like that and listening to country music all night isn’t my thing, but I embraced it and had a wonderful time.
I’ve been in a few weddings and I can honestly say that Carolyn’s and Carolina’s bridesmaids were the kindest. Everyone got along great and had such a lovely weekend celebrating one of the best friends I have in my life! I look forward to celebrating her in Asheville next month — and look forward to some October adventures with Alex and Lin!
Media taken Friday, September 13 – Sunday, September 15, 2024.
It’s hard to believe that on August 3, 2023 I got on a plane to meet Alex for the very first time. And the day after, I told Alex I wanted to be his girlfriend, and wanted him to be my boyfriend. I had such a great weekend recreating our first weekend together — even though things looked different this year (one of our best friends stayed with us through the weekend since her roommates had covid, and we’d just found out that Linley needed surgery).
On Friday, August 2, Alex, our friend and I went to one of our favorite Thai places in Midtown Atlanta, followed by a late-night trip to Bantam for some drinks. Saturday, August 3 was full of memories from the previous year: Torched Hop brunch, time with Alex and Linley at the Westside Motor Lounge and Scofflaw Brewing, then our friends Alex G. and Tyler joined us for some margs nearby and a nice dinner at Ruby’s Chows — our favorite “fancier” place to go. Sunday, August 4 was spent the five of us (including Lin!) until I joined the Alex’s at Park Bar and another great Atlanta United soccer game.
Not only was the weekend special because of Alex and Lin, but also because I didn’t know Tyler and Alex G. a year ago. I feel blessed to have such incredible friends, and an incredible partner in my new home. ❤
September 9 | One year in Atlanta (and Lin’s Gotcha Day!)
One year ago today, I celebrated six years of adopting Linley… and today I’m celebrating seven years as his best friend! On this day last year, Linley, my dad and I all arrived in Atlanta for moving day — where Linley met his new dad for the first time. Alex and Linley have bonded since day one, making these past two “gotcha days” so incredibly special. AND Linley’s doing great but he needed an overnight surgery last month, which gives us all the more reason to celebrate.
I look forward to more years and memories to come. ❤
My mom visited Alex, Linley and me last weekend — and we had a blast exploring north Georgia! I’d been to some of the wineries before, but actually staying in a cabin in Ellijay and walking around Blue Ridge was so much fun with my mom, too.
The four of us enjoyed a beautiful cabin with a view of the mountains, and it didn’t disappoint. We made s’mores in the oven (because it rained both evenings we were there), played cards, watched the Olympics, drank coffee outside on the wrap-around porch and laughed until we cried. It was the perfect stay and I’d recommend for anyone who wants to escape city life for a weekend.
Prior to even seeing the cabin in the woods, we stopped by Roo Mountain Vineyards — which is now my new favorite winery in Georgia! The drinks were delicious, the view was incredible and the quality time was priceless.
Blue Ridge was another cute town we stopped in since it was super dog friendly! We checked out some shops, took Linley to Blue Ridge Adventure Dog for a good run, some photos and toys, and had good coffee under a patio during some rain. We had great food for lunch and dinner, too!
It was great having my mom here in Atlanta and up in north Georgia, and we can’t wait for next time!
I’m full of giddiness today as it’s been one whole year ago since meeting Alex in person! I remember getting on that plane in Detroit and flying down to Atlanta — feeling excited and impatient and at peace with my decision. As soon as I got off the escalator and saw Alex’s beaming smile… I knew he was the one. 💛
More to come on that later! ☺️ Today I wanted to share more about my time in upstate New York with Alex and his family. We had such a wonderful time hanging out at their rental home along the river, exploring Alex Bay and other areas nearby. When first meeting Aunt Jean and Uncle Pat, I felt immediately welcomed. We talked about art and teaching and their sons… it was a big warm hug of a conversation. Later I met Aunt Mary Ann, Uncle Jim, Kayla, Randall and their girls, too — and it was so much fun hanging out by the water and playing cards in the evenings.
As much as I’ve enjoyed getting to know Alex’s parents here in Georgia, I loved talking with Bill and Cecilia in New York, playing games with them and getting to know their long-time friends, too! I can’t wait for more memories with them soon.
I struggled to write about my time in New York with Alex and his family because this was the first family trip I’ve taken in over 13 years. I remember feeling excited when talking with Alex about this trip last year – which was before we were even officially dating – and although it’s painful I don’t have these experiences with the family I was born into, it’s wonderful to have them with the family I now belong to.
Oddly enough, we never took family photos. We were living in the moment, enjoying each other’s company along the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, New York. Alex, Linley and I stayed in an awesome home on a little island — where Linley ran free and had the time of his life. The quality time with Alex and Lin meant so much to me, as did the time getting to know Alex’s extended family throughout the week.
I miss having coffee with Alex in the sun room every morning. I miss being outside with Lin and having lazy mornings together. I miss the walks into town as a trio and the places we’d see along the river. I miss hearing the waves crash against the rocks and I miss the sun on my skin — when I felt totally relaxed and at ease. I miss how Alex and I would look at each other and say “I love you,” knowing we were about to have a great day together.
I wish I could go back to those moments and vacationing with Alex and Linley all over again… until next summer 💛 I look forward to sharing more about the trip in the coming days!
I wrote about visiting my best friend, her husband, baby girl and pup in Alexandria last time. What a special reunion that was! And it was nice that Alex and I had a good chunk of the weekend to pop into DC and check out the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History together.
We had a blast in the museum learning about gems, our ancestors and even where the planet’s going (scary, for sure!). I loved having Alex by my side — commenting about what we saw and having a personal comedian along the way! Our favorite part by far was the butterfly pavilion, where I made a new friend Buddy.
Buddy the butterfly hung out on my hand for about 15-20 minutes! He was truly a friend by the end of the experience, and I was really sad when he finally decided to fly away. I’m grateful Alex snapped these pics to capture the moment and how beautiful Buddy was. Alex also had a temporary visitor, whose name goes unknown…
Honestly, it’s all the little things with Alex. It’s the butterflies landing on us. It’s the first subway ride we took together. It’s the realization that you’re walking in such a cool city together. It’s the fact that I didn’t have to visit Carolyn and Ryan by myself this time. All those “little things” truly add up to larger ones.
We headed to the wharf after strolling through the museum for a much needed seafood lunch and some good drinks. We may or may not have had three or four each — including the most expensive espresso martinis we’ve had (stupid bartender… but worth it!). What a great nap we had afterward haha!
Of course, Lin wasn’t too happy that we didn’t bring him along, but he probably would’ve panicked in the pavilion!
Last year I wrote about the new friends I’d met since moving back to Michigan in late 2022, and today I want to write about three older friends. On the way to and from upstate New York, Alex was able to meet two of my best friends and I couldn’t be happier! The love I have for my two besties, their significant others, pups and their families always brings me so much joy when I visit them — and having Alex by my side made it even better!
Carolyn and I have been best friends since we met as roommates abroad in 2014. These ten beautiful years of friendship have been filled with celebrating each others’ milestones and full of adventure and laughter. Carolyn hadn’t met Alex until this month – same with Linley – and it was extremely special to introduce two of my favorite people to one another. The love felt between us, Carolyn’s family and our pups means more than I can ever put into words.
Carolyn and me in 2014!Ryan, Lily, Carolyn, Linley (kind of!), Sully, me and Alex!
On our way back to Atlanta from New York, we couldn’t leave without seeing my bestie Carolina. Carolina and I used to work together in 2020, and have been inseparable ever since. Carolina and her fiancé, Matt, are not only getting married in October, but they just moved from Charlotte to South Carolina because Matt started medical school! I couldn’t be prouder of and more excited for my besties!
Carolina and me celebrating her engagement in 2023!Matt, Carolina, Koko, me, Lin and Alex!
It’s also been incredibly special for Alex to have met my high school best friend from Germany over video call. Not a week goes by where Saskia and I don’t talk — and one day I hope she and Alex can meet in person, too!
Saskia and me in Germany in 2022!
I’m blessed with three best friends who have always been by my side — even though we live far apart. I look forward to next summer’s travels and more memories with Carolyn, Carolina and their families.
It’s been way too long since I’ve posted, and the main reason had to do with my back injury. Early April until recently, I’ve been dealing with two herniated discs and a tear in my lower back. I’m writing this as I lay in our Alexandria, Virginia AirBnB — grateful for the ability to walk without crutches anymore and the opportunity to travel again!
Alex, Linley and our dear friends and family made my recovery process so much better — and I tried celebrating the small wins and good moments with great people.
I look forward to sharing more about our East coast adventures in the coming weeks. ☺️
You heard me; I believe this place and the people here are magical! And here’s why…
December gave me a new love for the holidays and Christmas spirit — one I hadn’t felt in a few years. Alex and I had so much fun before and during the holidays that I’m genuinely sad they’re over!
St. Louisa’s for organ karaoke
I haven’t sang or listened to karaoke in years, but our buddy Quinten told us about this old church-turned-bar with organ karaoke… and we couldn’t miss it! Alex and I have been twice now, and I’m sure 2024 will bring us more singing, dancing and laughing here — as well as pretending to be ping pong pros!
Botanical Garden for Christmas lights
We’d been to the Botanical Garden with our friend Emily in September, but visiting during the holidays was a completely different and unforgettable experience. Although the drinks weren’t cheap, they were good and the music, light variety and company were great. 💛 Alex and I were super impressed with the coordination of the lights with the Christmasy jazz playing.
Kat’s Cafe for jazz music
Sticking with the jazz theme, Alex and I enjoyed ourselves at this dive club in Midtown. This wasn’t as upscale as Cliff Bell’s in Detroit, but it didn’t need to be! The music, atmosphere and martinis were amazing.
Cirque du Soleil for an incredible show
Seldom am I speechless, but this show blew me away! The acrobatics, comedic bits and overall production took my breath away. I’m beyond grateful that Alex made my first show so special, and even though he’s been quite a few times, it was special for him too!
Christmas Market for a friend date
After Thanksgiving I made a new friend at the dog park, and we finally hung out before the holidays. Ariel, Alex and I had a blast drinking mulled wine, laughing our butts off and getting to know each other!
Roswell Mill for a family hike
On New Year’s Eve we took Linley on a hike just outside of Atlanta — which was just right for all of us! We look forward to more adventures and hikes as a trio. 🤗
With Thanksgiving around the corner here in the US, I can’t help but reflect on what and who I’m grateful for — and how far I’ve come emotionally and spiritually since this time last year.
Last weekend, Alex, Linley and I drove to Nashville to spend time with my friends Alex, Alvin and their two pups. We had a blast from talking for hours at the kitchen table to spending time doing holiday things in town and visiting The Gentle Barn animal sanctuary outside of town. I look forward to spending more time with Alex and Alvin—and more road-trips with Alex in general!
I’ve been reflecting on my weekends since moving to Atlanta – and even since meeting Alex for the first time in person! – and couldn’t be happier with quality time spent with his friends and mine.
Although nervous, I look forward to spending my first holiday season with Alex’s family and more memories the rest of 2023 has to offer!
Cheers to continuing to focus on what and who I DO have as opposed to who and what I DON’T have. 💛
Photos taken Saturday, November 11 and Sunday, November 12, 2023.
Traveling with the Traceys 