This isn’t your typical travel article that focuses on a single destination. Instead, it is inspired by my remarkable son, Elijah, who was not expected to live past two years old. He will turn seven in January, and he serves as a daily reminder of the fleeting nature of life!
I am a single mom and when Elijah was just eight months old, I learned that he had a terminal genetic disorder. In response, I packed up six kids and drove 13 hours to the ocean, giving birth to Elijah’s Baby Bucket List. That day, we decided to explore as much of the world as possible with him before his time ran out. During our travels, I realized that the world needed to experience Elijah just as much as he needed to experience it. This little boy has encountered far more of this amazing world than many adults. There is nothing more uplifting than meeting new people from diverse cultures and connecting through the universal language of JOY!
We have explored 25 U.S. states, and we’re not planning to stop anytime soon! This little boy has inspired people across the globe to choose joy and live boldly. As we journey, we continually learn and strive to make experiences more accessible for everyone through our blog and global social media following, hoping to motivate individuals and families to create memories now. You may have countless reasons why you feel you can’t, but I assure you that the memories you create and the people you meet will transform your life.
Whether it’s watching the sunrise over the Grand Canyon, feeling the mist of Niagara Falls on our faces, or sharing a smile with a stranger in a bustling city, each moment with Elijah has been a treasure. His laughter is contagious, his spirit unyielding, and his ability to find joy in the simplest of things is a lesson for us all.
Traveling with Elijah has taught me that life is not about the destinations we reach, but the journey we embrace. It’s about savoring each moment, cherishing the people we meet along the way, and finding beauty in every corner of the world. We’ve learned that kindness transcends language barriers, that compassion can be found in the most unexpected places, and that love truly knows no bounds.
As we continue our adventures, I am filled with gratitude for every day we have with Elijah. He is a reminder that life is precious, that time is fleeting, and that we must seize every opportunity to live fully and joyfully. So, pack your bags, take that trip, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Because life, in all its unpredictability, is an adventure worth embracing. May your travels be filled with laughter, unexpected friendships, and unforgettable experiences. Remember, the true essence of adventure lies not just in the places you visit, but in the hearts you touch and the lives you inspire along the way. Elijah has shown us that even the smallest moments can hold the greatest significance and that every day is an opportunity to celebrate life.
making him an honorary fire chief!
So, whether you’re exploring the wonders of nature, diving into the rich tapestry of different cultures, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, let the spirit of exploration guide you. Embrace the world with open arms and an open heart, for it’s in these moments that we find our true selves and appreciate the magic of being alive.
Here’s to more journeys, more stories, and more joy. Safe travels and happy adventures!
Find out how Elijah and crew are changing the idea of inclusivity and all our adventures at Elijah’s Baby Bucket List.
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