We recently took what I deem a proper vacation–no visiting family or ulterior motive outside of relaxing and recharging. It was heavenly. A whole week devoted to sunshine, good food and beautiful ocean views. We went on a cruise.

We worried about being stranded aboard a floating hotel with thousands of other people. After all, neither of us are particularly fond of crowds. Or waiting in lines. Or being forced to make small talk with strangers. I had been told by more than one friend ahead of time that her husband especially disliked the cruise they went on. However, we weighed some options and decided to go for it. We had a blast.

I am so grateful that we have the lifestyle that affords us such a luxury. Sure, it means we have to live a little frugally for a while to rebuild some savings, but I’m keenly aware that we are blessed to have expendable money. One stop in a port location gave us a glimpse of how many others don’t have the resources we do. It’s so easy to be lulled into believing that we deserve the things we want when in reality, we are lucky to have the things we need.