I'm turning 50 and my bucket list is screaming

Antonia Reitzell Start Date: Jan 4, 2025 - End Date: Oct 3, 2025
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
  • Saint Lucia

My Travel Story

by: Antonia Reitzell Start Date: Jan 4, 2025 - End Date: Oct 3, 2025
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
While I was recovering from 6 back to back surgeries in the hospital a few years ago I came across a show called "Restaurants on the edge" the episode was about a small family owned restaurant on an island called St. Lucia. Not only was the family featured incredible, but everyone and everything I saw called to my spirit in a way I cannot truly explain, but it became the goal that helped me mentally get through the rough stuff health wise when the love of my friends and family just wasn't quite enough.
I've been a mom since I was a teenager, a trip like this isn't something that's really attainable for a lady like me. I've just survived each day, week and month, the best I could.I've held down multiple jobs while going to school and raising my babies, I've worked over-nights making vegan protein under the table and folded shirts for retail after hours to make Christmas happen, but it is very very rare that I do something for ME.
I'm turning 50 on February 8 2025 and I deserve to celebrate me. I have spent the last 30+ years putting everyone else first, but for one week in one year, I would love nothing more than to eat the 100 types of mango available on the island, visit the #3 market in the WORLD and learn about spices I've never even heard of. As a chef, the food and the culture of St. Lucia is calling to my soul, as a tired mom who would love a moment to celebrate herself and her accomplishments I cannot check this bucket list item off the old list without a little (a lot) of financial help from my community.
Instead of presents, cards, dinner, or any other physical gifts for the next year (or five) I'm asking for help to get my butt to the island in September 2025 for a delayed birthday celebration staring ME.
If you've read this far, thank you, if you are able to pitch in, today, tomorrow, anytime in the next few months, thank you!
To everyone else, I appreciate your time and would ask you send the most awesome birthday energy ever my way for 2025 and beyond.
  • Saint Lucia

Adventure Registry

  • Airline Miles Delta or American

    $ 2,000