Why “Best Buds”?

Let's set the stage and explain where this term comes from: it’s about one month before Mel and I got engaged, and we’re at a family gathering with relatives we haven’t seen in years. To be clear, this is one of those family functions where you know that you're related to everyone, but you don't know exactly how; there are a lot of awkward hugs and you’re quietly trying to remember everyone’s names.

It’s the first night, and our lovely host tries to break the ice by doing a round of introductions, making sure everyone knows who’s who. When they get to us, there’s a pause. You know that split-second of hesitation and you’re not entirely sure what to say? That was the look on our host’s face. They introduce me, and then—clearly wanting to call Mel “Jon’s fiancée” but realizing we aren't engaged—a little panic lights up in their eyes. After a painfully long pause, they just went for it: “And this is Mel, Jon’s… Best Bud.”

We both kind of blinked at each other, a little confused, but honestly? “Best Bud” just stuck. Out of all the possible labels, that one somehow fits the way we do life and travel together. Now it’s one of our favorite inside jokes—so now you know where “Best Buds” comes from, and why we've named our blog that.