When’s the last time you did something just for you?
Not for your kids. Not for your partner. Not because it was on your to-do list. But because your soul needed it.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve had seasons where you moved on autopilot. Pouring into everyone else, holding it together, and showing up like you’re fine, even when inside you’re exhausted. Not the exhaustion sleep can cure, but the deep fatigue that comes from forgetting who you are outside your roles.
That’s where I found myself.
I Needed More Than a Break—I Needed a Reintroduction to Me
After becoming a mom, I poured so much of my energy into others. I didn’t even notice how much of me had faded into the background. I was showing up for everyone except myself.
Adventure was missing. Connection was missing. I was missing.
So, I decided to book a trip to Cancun.
I craved that feeling. I love stepping onto a plane. It’s exhilarating landing somewhere new and meeting people from different cultures. I feel that little spark in my chest that only travel can bring.
But, reality had other plans.
Cancun: The Trip That Taught Me What Not to Do
I imagined exploring the city, hitting the beach, and discovering a hidden gem restaurant where I just vibe. Instead, I found myself stuck in a timeshare presentation that felt like it stole hours of my life.
I left thinking, “Dang… was that it?”
But here’s the thing! Every trip teaches you something.
The Second Time I Said Yes to Travel, Everything Shifted
When I booked my next trip, I did it differently. I gave myself space. I gave myself permission to just be curious, open, and unapologetically unavailable for anything that wasn’t joy.
This time, I went back and visited Isla Mujeres.
And listen… it was everything.
I got to actually explore. Walk the streets. Try new food. Watch the sun do its thing over turquoise water. I felt alive. Like a version of me I hadn’t felt in forever. It was like I was waking up again.
Then Came Aruba
Aruba felt like the trip that cracked me open. It was easy. Effortless. Soul-filling.
I explored the island, joined a semi-tour, and connected with people and places. They reminded me there’s still so much of the world left for me to see. In the process, there is so much of myself left to rediscover.
It wasn’t just about the location. It was about the freedom. About possibility. About the reminder that motherhood didn’t erase me — it added more layers to who I already was.
Why I Created Becoming Terri
This blog isn’t about being perfect. It’s not about chasing the “influencer” life.
It’s about becoming.
Becoming more of myself.
Becoming bolder, softer, freer.
And bringing other women—especially other Black moms—along for the ride.
Whether you’re booking your first trip solo or planning a family vacation, this space is for you. If you just need someone to say “You deserve this,” this space is for you.
💌 Let’s Redefine You, Too
Have you taken a trip that changed you? Tell me about it in the comments or tag me on Instagram @becomingterri. I’d love to share your story.
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