day trip diaries: Phoenix

Visiting Phoenix, Arizona was a sweet unexpected treat during our Southwest Road Trip. After our time in Joshua Tree, we had planned to leave California and cross over into Arizona to spend a few days at the Grand Canyon before flying back home through Phoenix. So initially, our itinerary included nothing beyond a brief tour of the Phoenix airport.

But there was a change in the weather for the worst that made our plans to camp at the Grand Canyon not the best idea. Also, it felt like we were trying to squeeze the Grand Canyon in and this is not something that you want to rush through. Ultimately, we decided to save it for another trip and just head into Phoenix a little sooner since we were already booked with flights and a hotel there. We simply extended our hotel stay and spent 2 nights and 1 full day exploring the Phoenix area. It's not like us to change our travel plans last minute like this and be so spontaneous, but I'm glad that we did. 

will I finish my 101 things in 1001 days list?

I've been steadily working through my 101 in 1001 list over the past couple of years and sharing updates as I go. I really set some big goals with my list...like visiting 3 new countries and finishing up my doctorate degree. No small feats. 

the top of mount san jacinto

Wherever we were in Palm Springs, we could see the mountains. And we of course had to make our way to the top. 

 The city of Palm Springs California is located at the base of a valley, but is surrounded by mountains on all sides. You have the San Bernardino Mountains to the north, the Santa Rosa Mountains to the South, the Little San Bernardino Moutains to the East, and the San Jacinto Mountains to the West. We took the best route up to the top of the mountain with riding the world's largest rotating aerial tram up the top. 

friday favorites 07.13.18

It may be Friday the 13th, but it feels like my lucky day for so many reasons. 

a little life update

It's been awhile with having been out the country for the last week and a half. I'm a bit overwhelmed by all the life changes happening right now. I will share some official posts on everything once I figure out where to start, but for now here's a little life update. 

America, you are Beautiful

Hello from the Dominican Republic! I may be on a mission trip in another country right now, but I can't help but think about my favorite place today. 

hiking to a secluded beach

The best kind of hike is a birthday hike! I didn't think we would be doing any hiking this year since we spent my birthday in Martha's Vineyard, but I was surprised to learn that there are a lot of great options there. So after a morning bike ride to a lighthouse, we headed off to spend our afternoon on a quick 3 mile hike to a secluded beach. Of course we got a little lost along the way, so those 3 miles quickly turned into 5!