Memories at Sea: A Family Holiday on the Icon of the Seas

Trade in tinsel and traditions for sun-soaked adventures, unforgettable memories, and gluten-free pizza perfection! Our family embarked on a weeklong Christmas cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, proving that holiday magic is just as real on the high seas. From a cozy morning at South Beach to Perfect Day bliss at CocoCay, every moment was filled with laughter, delicious eats, and a bit of holiday sparkle.

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Pre-Cruise Comfort in South Beach

Before embarking, we stayed at the Marriott Stanton South Beach, greeted warmly with sangria and a smile. Although we arrived late and missed out on exploring the hotel fully, the amazing location and attentive staff made up for it. Dinner came courtesy of Brea from Bodega Boyz. Cameron and Brea raved about their delicious sandwiches: the Don Fuego and Big City Caesar. These were such a hit that they’re already dreaming of a return trip to Miami just for another taste!

A Winter Adventure on the MSC Meraviglia: Triumphs, Tribulations, and Tons of Fun

A Cruise Adventure Like No Other

Our recent cruise on the MSC Meraviglia wasn’t just a vacation—it was an unforgettable adventure filled with unexpected twists, family fun, and new memories. Picture this: driving through the night to Brooklyn in freezing weather, a boarding mishap that left two people in our group behind, and unforgettable moments like a light show on the promenade ceiling. Intrigued? Read on for the highs, the lessons, and the stories that made this journey truly unique.

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The Journey to Brooklyn: A Bumpy Start

We left for Brooklyn with excitement and a van full of family: Cameron, me, Aunt Sandy, Jerry, Angie, Marty, Haylee, and her kids (our “Rental Grandkids”), Jonas, Janaya, and Rainna. Cameron and Marty powered through the night drive, and by the time we arrived at the port, the bitter cold hit us like a ton of bricks.

Unfortunately, the day began with some drama—Aunt Sandy’s birth certificate wasn’t state-issued, and Cameron had forgotten his passport. Yes, the travel agent forgot his passport! 🤣 While Cameron’s enhanced ID saved the day for him, Aunt Sandy and Jerry weren’t so lucky. They had to drive home, leaving us short two passengers and causing a scramble for return plans. Lesson learned: always double-check your travel documents!

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Onboard MSC Meraviglia: A Gluten-Free Dream

Once onboard, the trip improved dramatically. This was my second MSC cruise, and as someone with Celiac Disease, their gluten-free accommodations didn’t disappoint. Every night, the head waiter personally ensured my meals were safe, though the desserts didn’t quite hit the mark. Thankfully, strawberries and whipped cream became my go-to treat, and I didn’t miss out on the indulgence!

Our server, Jay, went above and beyond for our group, especially with the kids, making every meal a delight. This level of service is one of the reasons MSC continues to impress me.

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Family Fun, Spades, and Rocking Waters

The days onboard were filled with family fun, even when the waters were rough. A chilly day at the water slides had us shivering but laughing, and Janaya’s scrape on one of the slides was quickly cared for by a kind attendant. The kids club was also a big hit with the “Rental Grandkids,” with Janaya even making a new friend.

However, the trip wasn’t without its challenges. Jonas fell sick and was quarantined to his room for a short time. The crew went above and beyond, delivering meals to his room and providing complimentary movies to help pass the time. When he finally felt better and was out of quarantine, Jonas was thrilled to rejoin the fun—but he wished he had a balcony for some fresh air during the ordeal!

When I wasn’t battling a migraine (a pesky travel companion), we played countless games of spades, laughed at comedian Ken Boyd’s ever-changing crowdwork, and danced our hearts out at the ship’s silent disco—a group favorite. For a less crowded view of the promenade light show, we discovered that heading up a floor made all the difference.

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The Return Home: Travel Lessons Learned

Returning to Brooklyn, we faced another logistical hurdle: Angie and Marty needed a rental car since Aunt Sandy and Jerry had to drive home earlier. Fortunately, Ryan’s family discount with Enterprise helped offset the cost.

Navigating rides from the terminal also proved tricky. Beware of unofficial “Uber” or “Lyft” drivers offering rides—they often charge exorbitant fees, including their tolls back to the terminal. Stick to the apps for a safer, more reliable option.

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Reflections and Memories

Despite the bumps along the way, this trip was filled with special moments, from Cameron bonding with Rainna (who had everyone thinking he was her dad!) to the heartwarming service that made every meal and activity enjoyable. These are the stories we’ll cherish and share, along with lessons to better prepare for future adventures.

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What About You?

• Have you ever sailed on the MSC Meraviglia? What was your favorite part?
• What’s your go-to tip for ensuring smooth boarding for a cruise?
• If you’ve had a gluten-free dining experience on a cruise, how did it compare?

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Share your stories in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going.

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Happy cruising! 🌊

The Ultimate Rivalry: Ohio State vs. Michigan, 11/30/2024 – A Day of Passion, Tradition, and Football

 For the third (or maybe fourth?) year in a row, Brea and I ventured out to watch the Ohio State vs. Michigan game together, and as always, it didn’t disappoint. This game has become more than a rivalry—it’s a cherished tradition for us, filled with memories of cold November days, Buckeye pride, and the occasional heartbreak. While Ryan hasn’t joined us yet, we can’t wait for the year he finally gets to share in the excitement with us.

A Chilly Start at Zeno’s

The day began at Zeno’s, where we braved the cold to grab a spot for the game. Unfortunately, our early arrival didn’t secure an inside seat as planned—thanks to some backdoor maneuvering by others—but we made the best of it. The outdoor seating, while enclosed and covered, still tested our layers and resilience. It was all worth it for game day energy, and it wouldn’t be Buckeye football without a little discomfort!

Game Day Drinks and Fun

We started with a morning mimosa, toasting to Ohio State and the memories we’ve made watching these games together. As the hours passed, the drinks shifted and the energy heightened, with a mix of nerves and excitement running through the crowd. Despite the cold, the atmosphere at Zeno’s was buzzing with fans proudly sporting scarlet and gray.

Tradition, Sentiment, and Fashion

Brea and I were decked out in our Ohio State gear, as always, but this year felt particularly sentimental. Alongside our Buckeye pride, I brought my brother’s pendant of ashes, ensuring he could be there with us in spirit. It’s moments like these that make the game about more than just football—it’s a way to honor loved ones and celebrate cherished traditions.

Handling a Smoky Situation

The only damper on the day was when someone decided to light up in the enclosed outdoor area. We tried to ask them nicely to stop, but when that didn’t work, we took action and reported it. It was a small hiccup in an otherwise great day, and one we handled with the same tenacity Ohio State brings to the field.

A Heartbreaking Loss, but an Unforgettable Day

The game itself was a nail-biter, with both teams playing their hearts out. Ohio State fell short, losing 13-10, but the close score and defensive plays made for an intense and memorable match. While the loss was tough, it didn’t overshadow the incredible day Brea and I shared, cheering on our team and being part of this legendary rivalry.

Looking Ahead

As this tradition grows, I can’t wait for the year Ryan joins us for the game—it’s going to be epic to share this experience with him too. Even with the loss, we left Zeno’s with full hearts (and maybe slightly chilled toes), already looking forward to next year’s game.

Pro Tip for Fellow Buckeyes:

Get to Zeno’s—or any game day spot—super early to snag a seat indoors, but if not, bring layers, grab a mimosa, and enjoy the Buckeye spirit no matter where you end up. Until next year! O-H-

A Night to Remember: Justin Timberlake in Louisville

On November 20, 2024, Cameron and I checked off not one, but two firsts: our very first visit to Louisville, Kentucky, and our very first time seeing Justin Timberlake live in concert! Thanks to VetTix, we scored tickets to an unforgettable evening with an iconic performer.

Our evening started off on a high note when we found fantastic parking just a short walk from the concert venue for only $20—a rare win for any big event! The convenience made the whole night even more enjoyable.

Justin Timberlake's performance was everything we hoped for and more. Over the course of the evening, he sang and danced to an incredible 29 songs, seamlessly blending his greatest hits with captivating visuals and choreography. He even showed off his musical versatility by playing both the guitar and the keyboard, proving once again why he’s one of the best entertainers in the industry.

The crowd was electric, singing and dancing along to every beat. Whether it was his smooth vocals, electrifying dance moves, or the raw energy he brought to the stage, it felt like we were part of something truly special.

Though our visit to Louisville was brief, the city left a strong impression. With its vibrant downtown and undeniable charm, it’s definitely a place we’d love to explore further in the future.

For now, we’ll treasure this incredible experience—our first Justin Timberlake concert in a city we can’t wait to revisit!

Fireball, Football, and Flying High in Columbus

Our Columbus weekend was packed with excitement! Brea and her friends invited me to join the Ohio State tailgate and catch the Buckeyes taking on Purdue, so I couldn’t resist joining the fun. The night before, we prepped 50 Cherry Fireball shots—because what’s a tailgate without a little kick? They were gone before we knew it—clearly a hit!

While we were cheering on the team, Cameron was up in the skies enjoying his Christmas gift: a scenic flight over Columbus. Though he didn’t get to snap any shots of the stadium itself, he loved the incredible views of the city on game day. Perfect weather, great friends, and unforgettable memories made it an awesome Buckeye weekend. Go Bucks!

Real Estate CE at Sea – My Solo Cruise to Alaska

After nearly a year of planning, Real Estate CE at Sea was finally here! Our vision to bring two of our businesses together, Olson Travel Group and Dream Real Estate Group, finally came to life, creating unique opportunities for our real estate agents to combine professional development with unforgettable travel experiences.

On October 12th, I set off from Seattle to Alaska for the adventure we’d worked so hard to build. Cameron stayed back because he just sarted helicopter flight school (so proud!), which meant I’d be cruising solo for the first time—a pretty big milestone, especially since I’d organized this event and was teaching four classes onboard. I couldn’t have been more excited (and a little nervous).

Before heading to Seattle, I was in Ohio, so Brea joined me for the trip back to Washington. She’d planned to visit her bestie Brandi for her baby shower, and it was so nice to share the journey over to Seattle together before she headed off to celebrate. She even dropped me off at the cruise terminal and sent a picture to Cameron "Dropping her off at the first day of school" it was epic!

Once the cruise began, the event was a total success! I met some amazing Washington real estate agents, taught my classes, and handled every little twist, including a podium that mysteriously disappeared and reappeared. Although I missed the orcas in Glacier Bay (heartbreaking!), Alaska's scenery was beyond breathtaking.

After the cruise, Ryan came over from Eastern Washington and we wrapped up with two extra days in Seattle, where we hit up a Seattle Kraken game, savored some fantastic Thai food, and finished with a chill day of pizza and football. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable adventure—already counting down to the next one!

The Drop Off 😂😂😂

MSC Girls' Cruise – Fun, Floats, and a Little Luck

In mid-September, we set sail for an epic girls-only adventure on the MSC Magnifica from Miami to Ocean Cay and Nassau. Kathleen, Kahla, Angie, and I were ready for a week of fun and relaxation, and while the trip started off a bit bumpy, it turned into an amazing getaway.

Angie and I couldn’t resist starting our girls’ cruise a day early, so we headed to Hollywood Beach, FL, for a little pre-cruise relaxation. We stumbled upon Nick’s Bar and Grill, where we discovered some seriously good burgers that hit the spot! Armed with adult beverages and the camping chairs from our room, we set up our own beach hangout and soaked in the vibe. The highlight? An outdoor concert right outside Margaritaville, giving us a free soundtrack for our beachside hangout!

Somewhere between bites, laughs, and waves, Angie made the decision to quit vaping—and let's just say her "goodbye" might’ve involved a casual toss into the ocean. Not exactly eco-friendly, but it was a memorable way to mark the moment!

The early beach day set the tone for the rest of our trip: great food, spontaneous fun, and a few unforgettable “only us” moments. Here’s to Hollywood Beach for a perfect kickoff to our MSC Girls' Cruise!

Ocean Cay was a slice of paradise, and we got to soak it in over two full days. I even surprised myself by spending actual time in the water! On the second day, we rented floating mats at North Beach, basking in absolutely perfect weather. Kahla struck it lucky, winning bingo while Angie took advantage of some quiet nap time. Kathleen kept things lively with her photoshoots, posing at every picturesque moment.

Dining on the ship was a treat, especially once we snagged a better table with a view (a definite upgrade from the pole we were originally seated by). The dining staff truly went above and beyond, accommodating my gluten-free needs with care. Kahla and I shared a cabin, making for plenty of late-night laughs and recaps of each day's adventures.

One night, we got a call in our cabin from the casino. Kahla had some unclaimed bingo winnings waiting for her. After a bit of back and forth about whether we should even go, we figured we’d give it one more shot and popped down with a “just $20 more” plan.

And then… the “Hot Seat” announcement came over the casino speaker, calling out a machine number. I barely noticed until the announcer leaned in a little closer and repeated it—yep, that was my machine! I’d won the “Hot Seat” for $80 in slotplay! We couldn’t believe it! That win stretched out our night, giving us a perfect round of fun (and a lot more laughs).

From floating under the sun to winning games and endless snapshots, this girls’ cruise was everything we hoped for—a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and, of course, great memories with my favorite ladies.

Check out our video of Ocean Cay Marine Reserve here!

Nashville & Beyond – August 2024

August 2024 was a month of celebration, adventure, and lots of laughter! We headed to Nashville to celebrate Ryan's birthday in true Clashy style, with Cameron, Brea, Ryan, Natalie, and me all in tow. Between moonshine tastings, tractor rides, and a stop at Jungle Jim’s, we packed a ton of fun into our time down South. But what made it really special? The time spent with family, and the one-of-a-kind experiences we had along the way.

Nashville Shenanigans – Moonshine, Tractors & Fun Times

First things first—what’s a trip to Nashville without a moonshine tasting? We kicked things off with a visit to one of Nashville’s iconic distilleries, where we sampled some of the finest (and strongest) moonshine in the area. Let’s just say, it was a spirited experience! Next, we jumped on a tractor ride that gave us the perfect mix of laid-back fun and Southern charm. It was a great way to just soak in the Nashville vibe.

Game Terminal – The Highlight of the Trip

The absolute highlight for me though? A visit to Game Terminal. If you haven’t been, it’s a must! This place is a gamer’s paradise, with outdoor yard games and an indoor video game haven. Whether we were throwing bean bags or trying to beat each other’s high scores, we all had so much fun. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day, and I loved seeing everyone, young and old, having a blast together.

Golfing & Jungle Jim’s – Because We’re Always Up for a Challenge

After Nashville, we made our way back to Ohio, but not before stopping at Jungle Jim’s. For anyone who hasn’t been, it’s like the ultimate grocery store meets theme park. There’s everything from exotic foods to quirky international finds, and, of course, we had to explore every aisle!

Back home, Ryan, Brea, Natalie, and I spent a day at Blacklick golf course, and let me tell you, there was a LOT of walking. We had a blast. But I have to admit, by the end of it, I was ready to swap my clubs for a comfy chair!

Columbus Zoo – Dino Adventure & Unlimited Soda

One of the most fun-filled days was when Ryan, Brea, Natalie, and I visited the Columbus Zoo. We hopped on a ride through the Dinosaur Island, surrounded by life-sized dinos that made us feel like we’d time-traveled back to the age of T-Rex. And did I mention the unlimited soda? We were living our best lives, sipping on our favorites while enjoying all the wild sights.

A Birthday to Remember

Ryan’s birthday was one for the books, and our trip to Nashville and beyond was full of laughter, memories, a little family fued, and experiences we’ll cherish forever. From moonshine tastings to golf and yard games, we had the best time celebrating together. Can’t wait to see where our next adventure takes us!

Summer 2024 at the Cabin – A Season of Fun, Family, and Cards

Summer 2024 at our cabin in Luck, Wisconsin, was full of family, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Of course, we couldn’t let the summer pass without a family BBQ for Cameron’s birthday. It was a BBQ spectacular, complete with homemade sauces, and I proudly mastered the art of gluten-free cornbread. It was a day full of grilling, games, and lots of love. 

My cousin Angie, Aunt Sandy, and the whole crew—Haylee, Jonas, Janaya, Rainna, Marty, Jerry, Will, and his kids—came to visit, and we made the most of every moment.

We kicked things off with a bang by watching fireworks and indulging in copious amounts of ice cream. We spent days cruising around on the tritoon, even if we did end up stranded on a chilly sandbar during one of the cooler days. But hey, it made for a great story! Cards were a constant source of entertainment—whether we were on the boat or gathered around the cabin, spades became the official game of the season. And nothing beats a cozy night by the fire with family and friends, enjoying good company and a few laughs.

As always, Cameron and I found ourselves at the cabin or at Kahla and Derek’s, where we played spades and more spades (seriously, how many rounds can one couple play?). When we weren’t playing cards, we were hard at work helping Kahla and Derek finish their basement—a bit of work with plenty of fun mixed in.

All in all, it was a summer of family, cards, good food, and plenty of memories at the cabin—can’t wait to do it all again next year!

Ft. Myers, Ft. Lauderdale, and Dublin – April 2024

April 2024 was another whirlwind of travel, training, and heartwarming moments. Including New York, Washington, Florida, Pennsylvanie,Pennsylvania, Ohio, Cameron and I were all over the place—but each stop had something special. Here’s the breakdown of our busy, but incredibly memorable month.

Ft. Myers – A Heartfelt Surprise from Aunt Chriss

Ft. Myers, Cameron and I flew in early for Dream Vacations Regional Training. But the real surprise came when we visited Aunt Chriss. She absolutely stunned me by gifting me a quilt she made using Momma Judee’s St. Patrick’s Day shirts. It was such a beautiful, sentimental gesture that left me speechless. Spending quality time with Aunt Chriss, reminiscing and making new memories, made the trip extra special. It was the perfect way to honor Momma Judee’s memory while enjoying the sunshine and the company of family.

Ft. Lauderdale – Dream Vacations Regional Training with Gina and Colleagues

Next, we were off to Ft. Lauderdale for more Dream Vacations Regional Training. It was a blast connecting with colleagues and learning new strategies to elevate our business. The cherry on top was getting to hang out with our favorite Business Development Manager (BDM), Gina! There’s something about spending time with people who make the work feel like play, and Gina never disappoints. We laughed, shared ideas, and, of course, enjoyed some downtime together.

Dublin, OH – LPGA Leadership Regional Meeting

We wrapped up our travels with a quick flight back to Ohio so I could attend the LPGA Leadership Regional meeting in Dublin. I was excited to dive into the discussions, network with other leaders, and bring back fresh ideas to implement in our own ventures. It was a great way to finish off a jam-packed few days, and I left feeling motivated and inspired by the incredible women in the room.

A Month to Remember

April 2024 was filled with a perfect mix of professional growth and personal moments. Whether it was the heartfelt surprise in Ft. Myers, the team-building in Ft. Lauderdale, or the leadership discussions in Dublin, every stop had something unforgettable. We’re already looking forward to the next adventure—let’s see where May takes us!

Eclipse Views, Clippers Games & Niagara Falls – April 2024

April 2024 was one for the books! Kathleen and Brett came to visit us in Cleveland, and let me tell you—this trip was packed with action, adventure, and some serious sightseeing. From a Clippers game to the most amazing eclipse views and a road trip to Niagara Falls, it was a whirlwind of fun and unforgettable memories.

Clippers Game & Road Trip to See Brea

The adventure kicked off with a fun Clippers game with Brea. There’s something special about being at a live sporting event, especially when you’re surrounded by family. We cheered, laughed, and enjoyed the excitement of the game before continuing our travels.

Eclipse Views from Our Condo – We Hit the Jackpot!

Next up, we returned to Cleveland, where we got lucky with the most amazing spot to watch the eclipse—right from the rooftop of our condo! The timing was perfect, and we had the best views in the city. We all gathered to watch as the sky darkened, snapping pictures and sharing in the wonder of nature’s spectacle. It was a moment we’ll all remember for years to come!

Niagara Falls – Nature’s Masterpiece

But the fun didn’t stop there! After the eclipse, we hit the road for Niagara Falls, and wow—what a sight. The power and beauty of the Falls are even more impressive in person. We spent the day exploring, snapping photos, and taking in one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. The mist, the sound, and the sheer awe of it all made for an unforgettable experience.

An Action-Packed Visit to Remember

Kathleen and Brett’s visit was truly one for the books. From the Clippers game to the eclipse views and the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, every moment was filled with laughter, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime. It was an action-packed trip that we’ll never forget!

Anniversary Cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas – March 2, 2024

Cameron and I kicked off our 10-year anniversary and my birthday celebration in style with a cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas March 2, 2024! We were joined by some amazing friends—Nick, Jen, Julie, Lindsay, Julann, Brandon, and their kids—for what promised to be an unforgettable adventure.

The Best Laid Plans... and Some Surprises!

The trip started off fantastic. The excitement was high as we boarded the Icon of the Seas, ready for a week of fun and relaxation. But as is often the case when traveling, things didn’t go exactly as planned. Cameron got sick early on (poor guy!), and then, just when he was starting to feel better, I got sick too! Despite our bouts with illness, we made the best of it and managed to have plenty of fun in between our colds and coughs.

Dinner Drama & Hilarity

Let’s talk about the nightly dinner experiences, shall we? Our table was a bit of a magnet for chaos! On the very first night, Nick had water spilled on him at dinner, setting the tone for what was about to be a series of comical mishaps. The waiter knocked over Julann’s bottle of wine (you can imagine how that went over!), and it seemed like every night something else went awry—yet somehow, it only added to the laughter and good vibes at the table. We couldn’t help but laugh at our “bad luck,” but honestly, it made for some of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Gluten-Free Pizza = Life

On a more delicious note, the gluten-free pizza was absolutely amazing! It’s not often that gluten-free options live up to the hype, but this pizza was a total game-changer. We’re still talking about it! Between the laughs, the occasional mishaps, and our foodie adventures, the trip was still a major success.

Hollywood Beach and Homeward Bound

After disembarking the Icon of the Seas, we spent a day at Hollywood Beach soaking up the sun before heading home. It was the perfect way to cap off our vacation—relaxing by the ocean, reflecting on the fun moments (and the not-so-fun ones), and soaking in the beautiful views before getting back to reality.

A Memorable Anniversary Cruise

Despite a few bumps along the way, our anniversary cruise was an unforgettable adventure filled with laughs, friendship, and memories we’ll cherish forever. Here’s to more adventures and, of course, better luck with our health next time!

Girls Trip to Ft. Myers – January 25, 2024

The year is off to a fantastic start with a much-needed girls' trip to Ft. Myers, Florida! On January 25, 2024, I, along with my cousins Angie and Rhonda, and Aunt Sandy, packed our bags and set off to visit Aunt Chriss for an unforgettable getaway.

Family, Sunshine, and Fun

There’s nothing quite like spending quality time with family, and this trip was the perfect opportunity to do just that. From catching up with Aunt Chriss, to sharing laughs with Angie and Aunt Sandy, it was a whirlwind of fun, sunshine, and memories. Ft. Myers was the perfect spot to unwind and reconnect.

Exploring Ft. Myers

While in Ft. Myers, we made sure to explore the area’s best spots and of course, indulging in some delicious local eats. Whether we were soaking up the sun in the pool or chatting on the lanai, we took full advantage of everything this beautiful city had to offer.

Laughter, Stories, and a Whole Lot of Fun

With Aunt Chriss as our hostess, we were spoiled with the best hospitality, and the fun never stopped. From sharing family stories to making new memories, it was a girls' trip filled with laughter, love, and bonding. Whether we were lounging around or heading out for adventures, this trip was exactly what we needed to kick off the year with a bang!