A Year of Adventure: Relaxing, Diving, and Growing

If I had to sum up this past year in one word, it would be “growth.” Not just the kind you can measure — like miles traveled or milestones reached — but the kind that happens quietly, when you step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and learn to slow down and appreciate the moment.

This past year has been filled with milestones — from unforgettable adventures with my daughter Camryn to new travel experiences and personal challenges. It wasn’t always easy, but it was real — and looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

Here’s a little snapshot of the moments that shaped my past year.

Diving Adventures with Camryn

This year was packed with dive memories! Over the summer, Camryn got her scuba certification at Gilboa Quarry, and we made it a full experience by camping there. Spending the weekends outdoors, diving by day, and sitting by the campfire at night made for some of my favorite moments of the year.

We went back for another weekend of camping and diving — and it was just as magical the second time. One of the best moments was capturing video of Camryn feeding the fish underwater. Watching her excitement and confidence grow has been one of the proudest parts of my year.

Volunteering at the IT-100 Trail Race

Another unforgettable experience with Camryn came in October when we volunteered at the IT-100 Trail Race at Chain O’ Lakes State Park. We worked a ham radio checkpoint, helping to manage race communications and support the athletes out on the trail.

Spending the day outdoors, doing something different, and seeing the determination of the runners was inspiring. Plus, it was just another great adventure shared with Camryn — and another reminder of how much I enjoy being out in the action.

A Spontaneous Walt Disney World Adventure

One of the most fun and unexpected moments of the year happened almost by accident.

It was a regular Friday afternoon when I asked Nicole a simple question:

“What do you want to do this weekend?”

By 4:00 PM, we were tossing around ideas.

By 8:00 PM, we were on a plane to Walt Disney World for a long weekend getaway!

No big plan. No months of reservations. Just a bag, a flight, and the freedom to dive into the magic of WDW — rides, sunshine, good food, and memories that will stick with us forever.

It was the perfect reminder that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you don’t plan for.

Christmas Overlanding and Diving

At Christmas, we loaded up the Jeep and overlanded down to Panama City, Florida for a dive trip adventure. There’s something freeing about packing up, hitting the open road, and having everything you need right in the Jeep.

The weather wasn’t perfect — it was chilly and gray — but we made the best of it. We dove beautiful spots in Panama City, explored Vortex Spring, and even stumbled across a hole-in-the-wall seafood place where we had the most amazing crab legs.

It wasn’t a traditional Christmas — it was better. A little cold, a little messy, but full of freedom, family, and memories.

My First Cruise: Porta Plata, Dominican Republic and CocoCay

Capping off the past year was a huge first for me: my first cruise with Royal Caribbean!

At first, I wasn’t sure if cruising was my thing. I felt restless — stuck on a ship without much to “do.” But as the week went on, I realized something important: the cruise was forcing me to relax — to slow down, unplug, and breathe. And once I embraced it, I ended up enjoying the experience.

Voyager of the Sea, our ship

In Puerta Plata, Dominican Republic, we went on a thrilling side-by-side excursion through the countryside. Kicking up dust, riding trails, visiting a small local farm — it was the perfect mix of adrenaline and culture. Afterward, we relaxed at the beach, soaking up the warm Caribbean sun.

Private beach at Puerto Plata, Dominion Republic

Another stop was Royal Caribbean’s private island, CocoCay, where Nicole and I spent the day snorkeling, swimming, and simply enjoying the sunshine.

Coco Cay, Bahamas

It was the perfect way to end a year of adventure — slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and realizing how important it is to just be sometimes.

Looking Ahead

This past year has taught me a lot — about patience, resilience, and being open to experiences even when they feel uncomfortable at first. I also begin to taking my health seriously — a journey that I’ll share more about in an upcoming post. Thanks for following along here at Dytryn. Here’s to even more adventures, growth, and unforgettable moments in the year ahead!