Tropical Travel Girl
It’s Launch Day! March 30, 2015
I chose this day, March 30th, as the official launch day for my website, not at random, but because it is my dad’s birthday. William R. (Bill) Dunning passed from this life to the next in 1984 at the very young age of 66. 
If he were alive, this would be his 97th birthday. In looking back, I’d say my dad had a lot to do with me becoming a tropical girl. Although we sometimes visited other locations, he loved vacationing in Florida with me, my younger sister, and my mom. I’ve been shaking the sand out of my shoes ever since.
He was stationed in Alaska during WWII and never tolerated the cold after that. He dreamed of spending winters in Florida after retirement, which he didn’t live to do. I know he would have loved seeing the photos and hearing about the many tropical trips I’ve been able to take over the years. He encouraged my writing talent when I was growing up and I know he would have been proud of me for being a published travel writer, and now for launching this website.
Thank you, Daddy, for taking me to the beach…and for introducing me to the tropical world that has become my travel passion. I dedicate this website to you.
Thanks also goes to my website consultant, Megan McNames, who was instrumental in helping me get my site to this point. For the part you played in handling all the “backside stuff”—HTML coding, helping me execute the overall look and design, the logo, and all the many things that I had no idea how to do, I thank you.
Congrats on your new site, Debbra. It looks great!
Isn’t it interesting how actions our parents took (or didn’t take) long ago can really have a dramatic impact on how we view and experience the world? My mother passed when I was only 13, and she never got a chance to see the world or experience the finer things in life as they were always saving “for a rainy day.” It never rained on my Mom! So I’ve made a very conscious effort to live every day as thought it might be my last and see as much of this amazing world before it’s too late. Cheers and best wishes.
Thank you, Doreen, for your well wishes and comment! I remember my Dad telling me when he was sick to go and do things while you can and not wait until retirement. I am with you on your philosophy to see as much of the world and its beauty now, and I feel so blessed to be doing that! All the best as you continue your quest to find the world’s best chocolate.
Thanks for the dedication to daddy. Beautiful picture of mom and daddy.
You are welcome, my little sis! (Not sure why your name isn’t showing with your comment.) It’s the only pic I could find of both of them on the beach…
It is beautiful. Seeing the picture of your mom and dad brought tears to my eyes. I love this web page, Debbie. It really is awesome.
Aw, thank you, Velda! Your comments mean a lot…
Congratulations Tropical Travel Girl. Love the website……wonderful pictures and very informative.
Thanks, Mardi!
Wow! Super Website!! I have watched you develop this website for the past year. It has turned out so AWESOME (just like the kind of person that you are). I’m so proud of you and I know your Mom & Dad are too!
Thank you, Stephen! Your unwavering support of my travel writing career and my work on developing this site have meant so much. I’m looking forward to many more tropical travels with you…my dive buddy and partner in life!
Great photo of June and Bill. I remember how your family always had a beach vacation.
Debbie, such a nice tribute to your Dad! He was a good guy! I have many fond memories of the Dunning family. We were very fortunate to grow up in a great neighborhood with many good neighbors. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks, Claire! Yes, we were, and I’m glad you were a part of it! I know you remember us going to Florida on many vacations. Who knew then where it would lead?