After what has felt like years of begging him for more backpacking trips, the boyfriendo finally initiated a trip on his own!
national park service sites
Skyline Trail Loop at Mt. Rainier National Park

The wildflowers were calling, and I had to go! For a few weeks a year, Paradise at MRNP lives up to its name by becoming awashed with purple, yellow, red, and blue.
A Quick Trip to Saguaro National Park: Part 2

My early March trip to Tucson feels like it was ages ago. Pre-social distancing, I had planned a quick trip to Tuscon, and weeks ago I wrote about part one. It’s finally time for part two!
A Quick Trip to Saguaro National Park: Part 1

When I ask you to think of a cactus, what comes to mind? For some, succulents. For others, maybe a prickly pear margarita. But to most, what comes to mind is the iconic Saguaro.
Conquering Mount St. Helens, Part 2

Last week, I wrote about how to prepare for hiking Mount St. Helens. This week, my tale of the hike itself–the coolest and hardest thing I’ve ever accomplished.
Conquering Mount St. Helens, Part 1

Picture it: You’ve just been denied a permit to a bucket list hike. Through your tears you see the words ‘YOU Can Climb Mount St. Helens.’ Feelings rush in–skepticism, fear, doubt–and then hope and excitement.
Redwood National Park: Prairie Creek

Mama Boots and I continued our road trip north from Eureka, headed to see more redwoods. It was time to see my twelfth national park!
Quick Hikes at Point Reyes National Seashore

This June, Mama Boots and I embarked on a road trip from San Francisco to Bend. Our first stop was the gem of Point Reyes National Seashore located only about an hour from SF!
Stamp Act

I used to have a serious problem as a child collecting things. Beanie Babies, Tamogotchis, rocks, shells, even tile samples at Eagle Hardware (RIP). My mother just LOVED it when I’d pick a new item to take up space in the house. As an adult, I’ve calmed down–a bit. Now I collect things like beer coasters […]