Growing up, my parents didn’t have much to spend on us, but what they did have, they made count. They made memories—big, lasting, joy-filled memories. For me, it will always be the Astro van, the road trips, and the yearly timeshare in the Poconos.

That’s the legacy I want to carry forward. Not just the destinations, but the adventure of going. My parents taught us that the world is meant to be explored, and whenever we traveled, we made it a point to go somewhere new—except for a few special repeats: Florida (because Disney will always have my heart), Jamaica, and Vegas (for the magic of Cirque du Soleil).

Last year, at the end of the school year, I took my first road trip as a single mom with my two kids. We packed up the truck and headed to Ocean City, Maryland- 4 hours and we did it. It wasn’t lavish. It was budget-friendly. And it was everything. My parents taught me that where there’s a will, there’s a way, and that lesson traveled with us. The kids didn’t notice what we didn’t have; they remember the beach, the pool, the fun times. That’s a win in my book.

This year, life continues to test me. Finances are still stretched, unexpected expenses pop up, and the pressure is real. But I refuse to let life’s challenges take away our little wins. So, this summer, we’re on an eight-hour road trip to Canada to spend quality time with family. There’s something grounding about leaving your everyday stress behind and stepping into a change of scenery.

We left behind gray skies and rain, and as we drove, we were greeted by sunshine, blue skies, and rolling landscapes that felt like a reminder: better days are always ahead.

I’m proud to continue the legacy of piling into the car with loved ones, hitting the open road, and making memories. It’s not always easy. Some days, it feels impossible. But if there’s one thing my parents’ Astro van road trips to Florida and Canada taught me, it’s this: joy can be found on any budget, and memories don’t need a price tag.

If you’re in a season of struggle, please know this—even when life feels heavy, there are sunny skies ahead.