• Hiking,  State Parks,  Texas

    Cleburne State Park: A Texas Hidden Gem

    Cleburne State Park has easily put itself in my top three favorite state parks in North Texas. And it’s a park that is not talked about often. In fact, I have driven past it many times but never considered stopping. In an attempt to discover more of the beautiful places around me, I have made it my quest to visit as many of the Texas State Parks as possible. Starting with those closest to my home in North Texas. That is how we ended up at Cleburne State Park, the most underrated state park. Read Next: Best State Parks in North Texas for an Outdoor Getaway Unsure what to expect,…

  • Hiking,  State Parks,  Texas

    Eisenhower State Park: Exploring the Texas – Oklahoma Border

    When I first moved to North Texas, I thought this part of the state was nothing but flat and plain. As a girl who grew up on the edge of the Texas Hill Country, I missed the varied landscapes and hills. But did you know that you can find hills along with rugged and steep rock cliffs right here in North Texas? Well, you can, at Eisenhower State Park on the shoreline of Lake Texoma. These rocky cliffs make for the perfect outdoor adventure not more than an hour from our home in Dallas. How to Get to Eisenhower State Park Eisenhower State Park is located only an hour north…

  • Hiking,  State Parks,  Texas

    Get Outdoors at Lake Mineral Wells

    Often I find myself searching for an adventure outside of my home state. But recently, I’ve been seeking beautiful places right here in North Texas. And I think I’ve found one at Lake Mineral Wells State Park! This state park is so gorgeous and so conveniently located close to Dallas/Fort Worth. Not to mention, there are so many adventurous outdoor activities at Lake Mineral Wells. So if you’re looking for an amazing outdoor getaway close to the Metroplex then consider this one! How to Get to Lake Mineral Wells Lake Mineral Wells State Park is located about 40 minutes west of Fort Worth. To get there from Fort Worth, take…

  • Idaho,  USA,  Winter

    A Dreamy Boise Winter Weekend Getaway

    Post Topic: Boise Winter Weekend Getaway Itinerary The Pacific Northwest is my favorite region in all of the U.S, but did you know that Idaho is also considered part of the Pacific Northwest? Idaho is the forgotten state of the Pacific Northwest. Idaho is home to many natural wonders, volcanic hot springs, snow capped mountains, trendy & hip cities, and delicious food! And this state is best experienced during the magical winter season. If you’re a mountain lover who enjoys the benefits and amenities of being near a large city, then look no further than Boise, Idaho. Is your trip to Idaho a part of a larger trip to the…

  • Colorado,  National Parks,  USA

    Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park

    Rocky Mountain National Park is one of those national parks that keeps pulling me back. I’ve been to Rocky Mountain a total of five times — more than I’ve been to any other national park. I am always in awe of its sheer beauty and grandeur. Every other time I have visited, it’s been during the summer. But this was the first time I have visited in the winter. And it’s definitely just as spectacular in the winter — maybe more. Rocky Mountain is home to some of the most striking mountain landscapes in the U.S. and when these peaks are blanketed with snow they are incredible. My favorite activity…

  • Caribbean,  Puerto Rico

    Colorful Walking Tour of Old San Juan

    Old San Juan is a historical district in the northwestern peninsula of San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico. The neighborhood of Old San Juan is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Full of vibrant colors, Latin culture, and amazing cuisine, Old San Juan is a must-visit when on the island of Puerto Rico. While you’re there, don’t miss out on a walking tour of Old San Juan. During our visit to the Caribbean last month, Randy and I spent two days exploring the best of Old San Juan. I have compiled a list of all of the spots in San Juan that I feel are most worth your…

  • Hiking,  National Parks,  Texas

    Guadalupe Mountains – The Top of Texas

    Despite having grown up in Texas, only a day’s drive away (8 hours), both Randy and I had never visited Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It wasn’t until last month that I decided that it was not OK that there was a national park in my home state that I had NEVER been to. Can you believe that my family has driven past this park several times but never stopped? So, we planned a long weekend trip out to West Texas. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in the entire state of Texas. Obviously, our visit to Guadalupe Mountains would not be complete without conquering…

  • Caribbean,  Hiking,  Puerto Rico

    Visiting El Yunque After Hurricane Maria

    What’s visiting a tropical island without spending time in a tropical rain forest? El Yunque National Forest is a must-see when visiting the island of Puerto Rico. At only an hour’s drive from the capital city of San Juan, El Yunque is the perfect day trip when visiting Puerto Rico. Due to damage from Hurricane Maria, the national forest was shut down in 2017 and has been slowly re-opening portions of the forest to the public. During our visit in January 2020, most of the park was open – keep reading for more information on what areas of the park were open and which ones are still under restoration. What…

  • Caribbean,  Hiking,  National Parks,  USA,  Virgin Islands

    Virgin Islands National Park – The Best of Saint John in Two Days

    Virgin Islands National Park is located on the island of Saint John, which is the smallest of three main islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s been a week since we left Saint John and I don’t think I’ve gone a day without dreaming about going back one day. Because of time constraints, my husband and I were only able to spend two nights on the island but in those couple days, Saint John has completely stolen our hearts. It’d be a lie if I told you that I haven’t considered checking job postings in St. John. Surely they need a speech therapist on the island. If you are even…

  • Caribbean,  Puerto Rico

    7 Awesome Things To Do in Puerto Rico

    Post Topic: Don’t Miss These 7 Incredible Things to do in Puerto Rico Puerto Rico is bursting with beautiful beaches, natural wonders, colorful Latin culture, and amazing cuisine. This is not one of those Caribbean islands that you visit just to lay on the beach – if you do that then you’ll miss out on so many extraordinary things! Waterfalls, Bioluminiscent organisms, and Spanish fortresses are only a few of the hallmarks that make up Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico has an endless number of things to do and see, you could spend a whole lifetime exploring this territory. I have put together a list of what I believe to be…