26th Birthday Trip To ATL With My Mom
Hello Lovelies,
For my 26th birthday, I wanted to spend it with the person who means the most to me—my mom. Over the years, our mother-daughter trips have become a tradition, something sacred that we both look forward to. This year, Atlanta was our destination, and it was everything I could have hoped for—good food, endless laughter, new experiences, and special moments that reminded me just how blessed I am to do life with her.
From the moment we arrived, we fully embraced rest, adventure, and indulgence. If there’s one thing my mom and I will do, it’s eat well. Every meal was an experience in itself—flavors that hit just right, dishes that made us want to slow down and savor every bite lol. And between all the amazing food, we shopped at two of my favorite stores, Zara and Mango, because what’s a girls’ trip without a little retail therapy? On her dime!
One of the highlights of the trip was seeing Syleena Johnson perform live at the City Winery. The atmosphere was perfect—smooth vibes, soulful music, and a space that felt intimate yet alive. There’s something about live music that just fills you up in a different way, and watching my mom soak in the moment made it even more special.
A big part of this trip was also about reconnecting. We spent time with my Godmother, who just so happens to be my mom’s best friend. Fun fact: she’s the one who named me. Seeing my mom with her best friend, reminiscing and laughing like no time had passed, reminded me of the beauty of long-standing friendships. We also got to celebrate our cousin, Akina, for her birthday at brunch!
One experience I was definitely nervous about was our visit to Jeju Sauna & Wellbeing Spa. I won’t lie—when I found out we’d be in a space where we’d have to be nude around other women, I was a little hesitant. But surprisingly, it turned out to be such a relaxing and freeing experience. There was something about being in that space, fully present, embracing rest, and just existing without judgment, that felt peaceful. It’s funny how the things that make us the most nervous sometimes end up being the most rewarding.
More than anything, this trip reminded me of just how much I love doing life with my mom. She didn’t get to have this kind of mother-daughter relationship growing up, but we’re building something beautiful together. It’s healing for her, and honestly, for me too.
We’ve made it our goal to take at least one girls’ trip a year, but hopefully, we can get two in this time. Because these moments? They mean everything.
God is so kind.
With Love,
Jadesha M. Hair
