Phoenix: Live Love Laugh

Easter Weekend Reflections: Traveling, Traditions & Trying Again

I kicked off my Easter weekend adventure early Thursday morning by boarding the Amtrak train headed to Jacksonville, NC—or technically, to Wilson, NC. That stop was closer to my cousin’s job, and she was waiting there with open arms. This was a big moment for me: my first solo train ride since 2014. Yes, this was a bold step in my journey of life after a sickle cell coma.

Now, I wasn’t scared—not exactly. I know God’s presence is always with me. But this brain of mine? It has a mind of its own. The anxiety and panic still show up uninvited, whispering worries into my every move.

My left shoulder, still healing from replacement surgery, has its limitations. I can’t lift my hand too far past my neck, which made handling my luggage a challenge. As I struggled to lift it into the overhead bin, a very tall man nearby just watched. Didn’t even flinch to help. I sighed and managed on my own. And I had to wonder—is chivalry dead?

Once I settled into my seat, I gave my bladder a mental warning: “Don’t even think about it.” Seven long hours later, we arrived.

And just like that, the weekend began—and so did the memories.

Good Friday brought a full St. Lucian brunch. My cousins and their families came by—many of whom hadn’t seen me in person since my coma ten years ago. That moment, like my trip to St. Lucia, is something none of us will ever forget. In our culture, we don’t eat meat or dairy on Good Friday, so the table was covered with traditional island flavors: coco tea, bakes, saltfish, smoked herring, and acras—Caribbean codfish fritters. If you’re curious, here’s a simple recipe: Cod Fish Fritters Recipe and if you know – you know.

Saturday was grilling day! My cousin’s husband fired up the grill with chicken, burgers, corn, and Pelau, a flavorful Caribbean rice dish found across islands like Trinidad, Grenada, Dominica, and of course, Saint Lucia. (You can check it out here: Pelau Video). We laughed, we talked, and my cousin even did my hair. Honestly, it was just what the doctor ordered.

Resurrection Sunday was peaceful and spirit-filled. I attended church, and although it was a different experience for me, I truly enjoyed the service.

On Monday, Shane and I visited the aquarium—another effort to create joyful, new memories for me. I always say she’s my doorkeeper, and that day proved it again.

Tuesday came too soon, and it was time to head home. But I didn’t come back empty-handed. My cousin Debbie is a plant whisperer. Her home feels like a Zen garden, filled with greenery, peace, and purpose. Watching her inspired me. She’s even been teaching Shane! Everyone says plants bring calm, and you know what? I’m ready to try. I returned with a box of plant starters—and yes, I’ll be sharing that journey with you soon.

My biggest takeaway from this Easter weekend?

Even if you’re scared—do it scared. – “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it’s the quiet voice that whispers, ‘I’ll try again tomorrow.’ And sometimes, it’s boarding a train—scared, but determined.“

Because growth, healing, and joy often wait just past the fear.

As always -live-love-laugh-Learn

Till next blog ……. Stay tuned