adventure: barcelona 2016

This may not be the typical travel blog post.

Back in July, as mentioned in my previous posts, Andrew and I were lucky enough to visit family in Ireland, and then head to Copenhagen for one of my best friend's wedding. Then, as icing on the cake, we spent a few days in Barcelona, just us. These times are SO incredibly special for me. For so many reasons.

I have recently been opening up a lot more about a somewhat tough subject for me - my childhood. How does this connect with my travel to Barcelona? Because, I

never

thought I would be able to travel these destinations. I never even thought I would have a husband to experience these travel destinations with. This travel is so incredible to me, because part of me doesn't even think I deserve to be going on these trips.

By statistic standards, I should be jobless. I should be using drugs. I should be on the streets.

My story: My sister and I come from a 'home' of addiction. We grew up with our mom in and out of rehab, and no father in sight. There were lies, there was abuse, we lived on the streets, we ate dinner at gas stations...

I literally kept this secret all of my high school life and much into my early adulthood because I was embarrassed. But I'm not embarrassed anymore, I am empowered.

Ok, so I am not a CEO running a multi - million dollar company, but I am successful. I married a man that treats me so well, I have had a steady job(s) since I was 14 years old, I have amazing friends, a great relationship with my sister, Andrew's family treats me as their own. My husband and I just bought a home ( !!! another thing I never thought would come to fruition ) in one of the toughest markets to buy in the country...

And the best part is? My sister turned out amazing as well - we were L U C K Y. There are so many youths that don't get out. They follow in their parent's footsteps because that's all they know.

So, I do deserve these trips. And, it is extremely therapeutic to share my story. I am actually proud to share my story...so, I am being real from here on out! And, thank you for listening.

Below, just a few images from the Papp Barcelona Adventure, yes, finally!