We Moved Downtown

This has been planned since the beginning of the year - to move into a condo together. We each set out our needs and then compared; most of them were the same! Back in March we started looking, reached out to a rental agent to double up on the search for the "perfect" condo. We knew we would like to move in June or July because that was close to when Patrick's current condo lease would be up. We had a (what we thought) was a generous budget that we could live comfortably and still travel.

That last part was the biggest factor for not renting a house. Not only did we only need 2bedrooms but we also didn't want to spend the extra few hundred and with no amenities. Condo life was what we were headed for.

We looked online for about 2 weeks, just casually browsing through every website I knew of including Kijiji. I came across this beautiful listing that literally had every single one of our check points and fell UNDER budget. The best part - it was in Patrick's current building on a higher floor. Is this for real? I had to jump on it so I sent him the listing and asked if he had a minute to call them because I was busy at work. Withing the next 30minutes Patrick called me and said "We have to go tonight...at 6pm" Deal!

Later that night after we viewed the condo, we sat down and filled out the paperwork. We were both filled with excitement when we left and didn't want to wait - it was a GREAT deal! It literally was the most ideal option for us as we were familiar with the building, area, etc. That was a Thursday, by Saturday we got the phone call that it was ours. I cried. He hugged me. We celebrated with dinner and wine, of course.

We spent the next few months packing up and planning the best way to tackle it - Patrick ended up having his knee surgery booked for the day we got the keys but it was necessary. I got this, no worries! We were able to start on a Wednesday to move any of the small stuff or things we could take apart easily to bring up in the elevator - Patrick was on the 12th floor, we moved to the 26th floor! That helped a HUGE amount. Friends moved most of it for me - at least the big stuff - while i tackled Adriana's room.

Over the last few months we took her shopping to pick out a few things that would make her room - HERS. She got a new bed, bedding, pillows, etc. (Thank you, IKEA, for your in expensive and uniquely designed furniture). Adriana loved making the big decisions for her room and she hadn't even seen it yet!

The plan is to spend all day today building her bed and preparing her room for when she comes tomorrow. Her dresser and toys will come on the weekend with her clothes but at least most of the decor will be done beforehand. I can't wait!! She has this fabulous view of City Hall and Celebration Square (corner windows). With such a fun room, I hope she enjoys her own space - I know we will enjoy ours on the other side of the apartment!

This is a huge step - Moving into a downtown condo with my boyfriend and Adriana. I didn't think I would ever get to this point in our life this fast. I held on to the hope that everything will work out; that my time will come to be where I've wanted to be for awhile. I believe that my ability to keep pushing forward no matter what is what got us here. I never gave up, not once. I refuse to let anything or anyone hold me back from what we deserve. We have our own space - shared with a very patient, caring and loving man. I can't wait for  the next big thing for us. We eventually want to buy a house in a few years time but for now renting is what's calling our name!

Vacations: Worth every Penny

For the past one and a half years, I have wanted (needed) to go on a vacation. I wasnt entirely picky at first; I just wanted to get on the plane and go somewhere HOT. I researched everything I could about places I've never seen, starting small of course. I saved my money for months - including Christmas and birthday presents I had to buy for! And in the new year, we booked our first big trip away. We had a budget and already booked the time from work that would make it a bit easier to be away from Adriana. I needed that break. I had such a busy work season from August to end of December, and then again for the pass few weeks. Treat yo self.

Here we are in...The Bahamas!!

So admittedly this is not my first time to the country - however this is the first time visiting this island. I've been to Freeport a few years back for my sister's wedding. We are visiting Nassau this time. Staying on the beautiful Cable Beach at The Breezes Resort and Spa. I have to say...first impressions are everything! I about nearly died from excitement when we got to our room! See above picture (no joke!). We can see Atlantis in the distance and watched a few cruise ships come and go!

After reading the reviews, I had hoped for a high room, odd number and in the west tower - these were supposed to be the best rooms in the hotel beside the Presidential suit. Every room is ocean view, which is amazing. We are on the TOP floor (8th), odd number and in the west tower - Winning!!

From the bus transfer to the view, its been amazing! Jeremiah helped load our suitcases on the bus after guiding us to the bus area from the airport doors. A quick drive down the left side of the road and through a few roundabouts, we arrived at the front of the resort. Its an open concept lobby, which let's the breeze flow through nicely. Checking in was easy least and after we went to check out the menus for the restaurants again.

At the same time, they had a political party staying at the hotel for a few days. They were all polite, friendly (said hi to us all the time) and was never overwhelming in common areas. Plenty of seats, sun loungers, food, drinks, space for everyone.

The beach is my ultimate favourite thing! If a resort doesn't have a good beach...I probably won't go. White sand, clean, lots of sun and shade available. I read its the best beach in all of Nassau. I can understand why now! Its over 1000ft long against the crystal clear water.

Only Day #2 here and we have some adventures planned for the next several days we are here. I miss Adriana because I know how much she loves the beach - and kept asking if she can come back here one day! Most definitely will plan a trip with her - just not here because its Adults only ;)

Time to finish breakfast and head to the beach for the day!