Day 905 Key West Memories

Right as I was daydreaming about my next vacation, a memory popped up in my photos—one that feels like it happened just yesterday, yet it’s been nine years. Time flies, doesn’t it?

It was a sunny day in Key West, and Tim and I were soaking up the warmth, happy to be away from the cold of Rhode Island. We made our way to Mallory Square, where tourists and locals alike gather every evening to celebrate one of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see. It’s a place where everyone seems to pause, take a deep breath, and just appreciate the beauty around them.

As we took in the view, we glanced around and started looking for someone to snap our picture. And then, as if the universe decided to add a little serendipity to the moment, I spotted a familiar face. A girl we went to high school with—just feet away from us! Naturally, I suggested to Tim that we have her take our photo. We couldn’t help but laugh at the odds of running into someone we knew so far from home. You can’t make this stuff up, right?

I’ve had moments like this on almost every vacation I’ve taken. It’s one of those things that makes me smile—sometimes it feels like the world is smaller than we think. And it got me wondering, who might I run into on my upcoming cruise? The possibilities are endless.

Looking at that picture of Tim and me, I can’t help but feel the pull to return to Key West. Nine years have passed, and yet it feels like it was just yesterday. The memories of that trip are still vivid: the drive from Miami to Key West, where the ocean stretches out endlessly on either side of the road, the charm of the Hemingway House, the quirky bars, and of course, the sunsets that never disappoint.

I’ve been to the Keys before, but my first visit was when I was just a little kid, no older than six. I can still picture the drive along the Overseas Highway, the vast blue of the ocean stretching as far as the eye could see. Back then, it felt like a dream, a magical place that was so different from anything I had ever seen before. But now, as an adult, I see that drive from Miami to Key West as a kind of ritual—a beautiful, almost meditative experience that only adds to the allure of the island.

Tim and I had such an amazing time that trip—exploring the local restaurants, hopping between colorful bars, and just enjoying the vibe of a place that feels like a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Every sunset felt like a celebration, and I could see why people keep returning year after year.

Now, nearly a decade later, I find myself longing to go back. Key West is definitely back on my list of must-visit places for 2025 or 2026. There’s just something about that laid-back island life that stays with you. I can't wait to relive the magic, create new memories, and, of course, see what other surprises the universe has in store for me along the way.

Who knows? Maybe I'll run into a few familiar faces on my next trip, too. After all, the odds seem to be in my favor!