TRAVEL NOW.

oh canada!

2011-03-18T18:06:00.001-07:00

In celebration of my husbands 30th birthday I took him to Vancouver, B.C. As we unload off the train from the airport we are immediately engulfed by towering buildings. I instantly am reminded of New York City. We check into our hotel, which is perfectly centralized to Gastown, Granville Street, and Robson Street. Robson Street is the first neighborhood we really get ourselves lost in. The street is lined with designer brands and other fantastic stores. Zara and American Apparel to name a few. We have lunch on the patio of a restaurant named Cactus Club Cafe. We indulge in halibut tacos, delicious, while people watching the afternoon away. After we clean up for the night we head off to Granville Street, known for it's nightlife. They aren't joking. Seeing as it's Saint Patricks Day and we are in Canada we didn't expect much. Boy were we wrong. The street is lined with fantastic pubs with lines building up around the blocks. The locals are covered from head to toe in green. We drink Guinness, that is like chocolate milk gliding down our throats and savor the amazing flavors from our chicken pot pies. Again we sit on the patio and just laugh away at the people walking by.

The second day in Vancouver brings out the tourist with in us. We hop aboard the tour trolley and are loaded with fun facts about the city. Our tour guide points out every main building that played a huge roll in the Olympics, famous hotels where previous presidents have stayed, and every historical building that has helped build Vancouver's character. Our first stop is Stanely Park. I completely under estimated this adventure. We stroll along the coast taking in the skyline and the beautiful fir trees. We embark upon towering totem polls and light houses. Not realizing how gigantic this park is we hop back on the trolley to get a tour of the rest of the green. Our next stop is Granville Island. You could get lost in their farmers market. Isles of fresh meat, poultry, fish, produce, and pastries. This market is permanent and inside (something I did not expect). We decided to purchase a sweet to really experience the "taste" of Granville Island. I have a fresh lemon bar, my husband has a gluten free double chocolate almond cookie. Both are delicious and to die for. We decide to grab lunch on the Island at a place called The Keg. The food is fantastic. Everything is so fresh and full of flavor. As we hop on the trolley to get back to our hotel we decide to jump off at the Gastown District. Which we soon discover is the original town of Vancouver. Founded in the 1800's and named after a man called Gassy Jack (known for his flamboyant personality). This district is amazing. With it's old original structures, gas lamps, and cobblestone streets you get a feeling of Europe. The streets are lined with ubiquitous pubs, boutique clothing stores, and cafes. For dinner we decide to go for a little Mexican. Vallarta Grill. There is a reason there was only two Mexican restaurants we could find in a 5 mile radius....not good. To make up for the bad play we head over to Blenz Coffee. Enjoying chai tea and a freshly made rice crispy treat. Blenz coffee is an amazing chic coffee joint open 24hrs a day. Definitely the late night popular hang out.

Over come by the chains and craziness of downtown Vancouver we opt to head over to South Main (SoMa). A little more our jibe. As we take the number three bus we pass through some of the most dangerous parts of the city. Reminding us of the Tenderloin District in San Francisco. We also pass through Chinatown. The 3rd largest in North America after New York and San Francisco. We get dropped off at Broadway and Main. As we start our trek we instantly are greeted by a vintage store. The first of many to come. The first thing to recognize is the cleanliness of these vintage thread shops. Chalk full of amazing finds. My favorite winds up being a store called "Front and Company". This clothing retail store is a mixture of new & consignment, plus quirky home decor, and accessories. It reminds me of an Urban Outfitters....but way better. Another store we discover in this artist village is "The Regional Assembly of Text." This store is jam packed full of unique stamps, cards, vintage typewriters, books, and other ephemera. There was no leaving empty handed. We decide after the hike and shopping to grab some grub. We find a restaurant called Habit. I instantly fall in love with the outside decor and can hardly wait to be exposed to the inside. We immediately are greeted by a deer head mounted on the wall with retro decor in every corner. I'm in love. They serve brunch till 2:30 so we feel brunch is the way to go. The vibe in this place is retro cool and my husband and I feel more than at home. We decide we will come back the next day for dinner.

Sunday morning we wake up bright and early heading out to the Capilano Bridge. On the North side of Vancouver we cross over to the more suburb part of the city. The bridge is gorgeous and well worth seeing at least once. After being there for a couple hours we head back and walk towards Granville Street were they are holding a Saint Patricks Day Parade. The streets are lined with bands, street performers, and authentic Irish food. We decide to eat at a pub called Donnally's. Munching on fresh garlic fries and kicking back a beer or two we people watch the afternoon away...again. We head over to Habit for dinner. The retro cool restaurant in the SoMa District. We have an amazing server who shares our love of art, food, and a love for physical photography (a.k.a Polaroid pictures). We chow down on trout sandwiches and apple cobbler. Then kick it back with some Wiser's Canadian Whiskey. It is the perfect ending to a fantastic trip. The Canadian people treated us well and shared with us their culture. I look forward to our return in the future and hope to venture out to places like Victoria, Whistler, and Vancouver Island. Thanks Canada, it has been swell.

Back to the Ace

2011-03-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

Dear Ace, you have yet to fail me. Filled with your Hipsters and Gypsies from around the world, your eclectic music, and your fantastic cuisine there is nothing I can find wrong with you. Having the pleasure to stay in your suite room was an amazing experience, and one I would like to endure again. You are like my home away from home. Yours truly, C.

williams, sedona, and the grand canyon.

2011-01-12T13:13:00.000-08:00

As I may of mentioned before I had already explored Arizona as a child. Amazing as it was to a nine year old girl, I can honestly say it took my breath away as a 25 year old woman. Our first stop was in Williams. A very very small town tucked up in the forests of Arizona. Seeing as it was New Years Day, we did not get to experience all the town had in store. However a small diner we discovered filled our stomachs just fine and sent us on our way. We happened to choose the scenic route by chance on our way to Sedona. Approaching the amazing mountains covered in snow, we stopped mid conversation in awe of the site. This brilliant drive was almost too much to take in. In some parts of the gigantic cliffs snow was beginning to melt and you could catch a quick glimpse of stunning red rock. We soon discovered from a local the route we took was Oak Creek Canyon, and the worlds 8th most amazing scenic drive. Who knew!! As we approach our hotel (Sky Ranch Lodge) we discover it is perfectly placed on the mesas of Sedona with views we cant quite appreciate yet because the sun has set. The rooms are small and modest but cozy with fireplaces and private decks. Word to the wise. Sedona is not a city of night life. You will find no bars, no live music, hell you wont even find a restaurant open past 9 on the weekends. Luckily enough we brought plenty of wine and games! Now traveling to the Grand Canyon you have a couple of options. You can drive, which takes around 2 hours, or you can take the train from Williams. Now taking the train to Williams is well worth it during the summer, when there is more the enough to do at the National Park. However, during the winter most hiking trails are shut down due to the snow. Now saying this I fully believe everyone should see the Grand Canyon during summer and winter! The colors of the canyon completely change during this two drastically different seasons. Bring gloves and lots of socks! It will be below freezing! Now, when you are in Sedona there are a couple of things to see. First there is the Church of the Holy Cross. Tucked beautifully in the cliffs you can experience serenity and breath taking views. Another stop is Slide Rock hidden in the Oak Creek Canyon, which is a drive that needs to be experienced. Another option is simply following the signs to scenic hiking trails, best viewed at sunset with the sun blazes through the clouds and looks as though God is shinning upon us. This trip is one to take! Perfect for a long weekend getaway.

the ACE hotel portland

2010-10-19T23:56:00.000-07:00

If i can say one thing...the Oregonians have it right. With the big city feel and the small town mentality they have the best of both worlds. However, I dont just have one thing to say. I have many. Upon arrival it is a completely clear sky and crisp air. Hands down my favorite weather. The trees are a mixture of brilliant greens, reds, and yellows. Driving across the Burnside Bridge you instantly see the "Made in Oregon" sign. This sign could not speak more of the truth. Everything is "home grown". The art, food, beer, wine, coffee, and people. I would say there are four main parts to this city and they are very different yet have the same feel flowing through them. Laid back. I almost felt a sense of uneasiness....not being in a rush. With-in the first 30 minutes of being in the city we walk 1/2 a block from our hotel and find...a bar...a coffee shop...and a breakfast joint. We choose "Kenny and Zukes". Holy moly. Latkes and french toast. Just order them, trust me. We found ourselves wondering on to Powell's books after breakfast. Needless to say you could get lost here. It's nickname is the house of books. Our next stop is a vintage store named Fringe. You are greeted instantly by a friendly face...who shockingly enough WANTS to talk to you (they jam in the back on lunch breaks). The plethera of threads and gems is over-whelming. Our first dinner in Portland is at Le Happy. Recommended by pretty much everyone I know. Known for their crepes....and pretty much only selling crepes. It is to die for. Sweet or salty you will get your french cuisine fix. Not to mention an excellent ale on tap (most likely brewed in Oregon). Saturday morning you will find their flea market located right on the waterfront. Dont bother getting there too early I feel as though the Oregonians are in no rush to get up. An hour earlier and we would of found no market. Here you can find local artists crafts, clothing, food, and beer. Hawthorne street is where you will find an abundance of vintage stores, cafes, and restaurants. The vibe most definitely changes on this side of the bridge. You no longer see sky rises but homes, and everyone is walking their dogs or riding their bikes. A great place to eat is Jam. They are known for their breakfast cocktails (ex. strawberry mimosa) and their pear chai jam (to die for). The streets are lined with vintage stores. House of Vintage, Buffalo Exchange, Rock n' Rose, and Rad Summer to name just a few. On East Burnside Street you will find an amazing coffee shop named Heart. The coffee is delicious, the pastries even better, and the decor is indy meets industrial. Along the same street you will come across an awesome restaurant/bar/lounge/music venue. Fantastic food. Fantastic beer. Fantastic jams. The place is named Doug Fir. It's like the 1950's had a baby with a ski lodge and an indy rocker. Needless to say it's....fantastic. Our hotel was located more in the Pearl District, and what the Portland natives tell us is "up and coming". The Ace Hotel is a hipster's dream. The hotel is connected to a Stumptown cafe and a restaurant/bar called Clyde Common. Come hungry because you will stuff yourself silly. Clyde Common is a European influenced restaurant. With common table areas and bar it is most than easy to make friends. Especially since the Oregonians are some of the nicest people you will ever come to meet. The Ace Hotel has a friendly staff who dress fantastically. Black pants, saddle shoes, white collar shirt, and suspenders. Whats not to love? In the lobby there is a grouping of couches filled with people from all walks of life. Some are visitors, some are locals having meetings for art projects. There is a photobooth in the lobby as well. And though it is 4 dollars. It is TOTALLY worth it. Like in Palm Springs you can also rent bikes for the day! Portland hands down has become one of my favorite cities. You will fall in love with every aspect Portland has to offer.

the ACE hotel palm springs

2010-09-11T19:46:00.000-07:00

Just this past July my friends and I took a trip to Palm Springs. The hotel was so beyond amazing I had to book a trip with my husband. The design of the Ace is a bohemian, organic feel with mid-century modern, and hip tendencies. Some rooms have patios, and gardens. If you are booked in a more simplistic room you can find communal fireplaces through out the property. At this hotel you feel like you have stepped into a retro cool black and white 1950's movie filmed at a pool. The restaurant, although deceiving, has excellent and rare meals to offer. Including french pressed coffee in the morning, which I personally believe is to die for. As you walk through the hotel exploring you will find many personal touches and quirky objects. Including a vintage photo booth! The hotel also offers vespa and bicycle rentals. You may even find yourself on the tandem bicycle! The hotel is also dog friendly, with a pet friendly lobby, pool, rooms, and dog park. But BEWARE, they will charge you if a neighbor complains about barking. Palm Springs has always been a chic place to visit but this hotel is the creme de la creme of hotels!

i love you new york.

2010-09-06T20:46:00.000-07:00

One of my closest friends took off for College this past year. While she lands herself on the East Coast, I am stuck here in Southern California getting my travelers itch...once again. My instant reaction is to book a flight to New York and have her meet me there. She being a gypsy like myself...agrees. Our first day in NY winds up being a sick joke. Which we now can look back on and laugh, thankfully. We will now refer to Broadway as being the longest street in the world. It at least feels that way when you get lost. Being a native from California I bring with me some what of a laid back lifestyle, where as New Yorkers do not. It takes a couple hours....or a day to get used to. However, once you do the city is constantly buzzing and you can enjoy every ounce of it. We are there for four days and every millisecond is filled with something to do. The Empire State Building, Staton Island, Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero, Union Square, Madison Square, 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Canal Street, Soho, Grand Central Station, the Met, New York City Ballet, the theatre, the pubs, the bars, and the food. New York is an amazing place to visit, and a city you most definitely can't miss. Wether you are on a romantic get away with your love or with a best friend it is over whelming and beautiful in it's own way. During the day the site seeing is breath taking and a night the city is filled with the excitement of life. Even if that means sipping on a Starbucks in the middle of Time Square or sharing a Blue Moon at the local pub with a friend. The best part about New York are the restaurants and bars right off the street, every neighborhood has it's own vibe. There is always something to do and somewhere to go.

wicklow mountains, glendalough, bray, and dun laoghaire

2010-09-06T19:19:00.000-07:00

Our second stop in Ireland is a tour through the cities of Wicklow, Bray, Glendalough, and Dun Laoghaire. Every one of these cities is completely and utterly different. Dun Laoghaire is a beach side city just south of Dublin. Where shockingly enough you may even find surfers on a "warm day". You can find small cottages along the coast with white picket fences and beautiful emerald gardens. Bray is a city just east of Dun Laoghaire. We stop for coffee and pastries, and they are delicious. The flaky croissant just melts in your mouth. Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains are just breath taking. We are in Ireland in March so the mountains still have flakes of snow left sprinkled on them. The air is nippy so high up in the cliffs, but the air is so fresh the rocks become covered in a vibrant green moss. Glendalough is filled with 1,000 year old ruins from a Monastery and a small pub where their native tongue is Gaelic. The fields are filled with lamb and horses as we pull away from this enchanting city. It is a city you feel should belong in a fairytale.

ireland. first stop dublin.

2010-09-06T18:59:00.001-07:00

Last summer I am walking through a store with my husband. We receive a phone call from his sister. She calls to tell us it is three a.m. in Dublin, she just landed, and she is in a pub. I look at my husband and tell him pointe blank, "THATS IT! We are going to Europe." Well needless to say that is quite the expensive trip....or so you would think. Somehow we find airfare and a hotel for 600 bucks a person. Too good to be true? I think not. Thanks to Priceline (which I swear by) that is all it costs us to travel across the United States and Atlantic Ocean. We land ourselves at the most amazing hotel in the heart of Dublin. We are walking distance from everything, the service is great, and if you can believe it or not....we have a view from our room. Dublin is a fantastic city. The people are beautiful inside and out. Every corner there is something to see. Everyone who has been to Ireland or the United Kingdom has warned me about the food. Well I am here to tell you as long as you stick to the pubs you will be golden. Don't get me wrong, you may gain a few pounds. However, it is all worth it. The main sites to see in Dublin are the Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Castle, St. Patricks Church, St. Stephen's Green, Grafton Street, O'Connell Street, Temple Bar off Temple Lane, Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, and Jameson Distillery. There obviously is much more to be seen than this, but this certainly will get you started. If you make it to the Guinness Storehouse....whether you drink Guinness or not you must go to the very top to see an unbelievable view of the entire city. Now if you happen to venture to this magnificent Island, you must see it all. Because believe me, every city in Ireland has it's own flare.

howth, a fisherman's village.

2010-09-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

Our last day trip we took in Ireland was to the city of Howth. This by far was our favorite city. It contained the quaintness we were looking for. We arrived by train in the morning...realizing we forgot our camera. Searching high and low we discovered a pharmacy that carried ONE disposable camera. Just up the street we found a small but adorable breakfast place with some of the best pastries we had over the entire trip. The restaurant was placed just above a small market. After breakfast we wondered aimlessly around the village, through neighborhoods filled with amazing country homes. We found ourselves at the very top of the hill walking through empty fields eventually finding the stunning cliffs of Ireland. The ones you see in travel magazines and books. The air on our faces was filled with the smell of the salty ocean and the sun glistened across the sea. It was by far the best day we spent in Ireland. If you ever find yourself on the east coast of Ireland you MUST see the fisherman's village of Howth.

aloha poipu.

2010-09-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

My parents recently purchased a time share in Poipu, Kauai. I personally believe Kauai is one of the most beautiful of the Hawaiian Islands. There is so much to do and see in Kauai it is almost overwhelming. My family and I decided to hike to the Opaekaa Falls. Two waterfalls near the city of Kapaa. The hike itself its completely doable. However, beware of hiking after serious rainfall. Which is quite common on this island. The island of Kauai has the wettest spot on Earth. While hiking you will discover one fall, which is amazing, but don't stop there. About a mile further into the jungles you will discover the actual Opaekaa Falls. Bring good hiking shoes, and ones you don't care about, you will be covered in Kauai's famous red mud. Also be sure to use bug spray! Another adventure you can take is to the Na Pali Coast. You can only reach here by boat or helicopter, but it is beyond worth it no matter the price. The monstrous cliffs come right up to a small stretch of ivory beach that touches the crystal clear stunning waters of the Pacific Ocean. By boat you will experience the Spinner Dolphins racing you while doing back flips and spins. On a rare occasion you may even see flying fish or seals. Another day trip you can take is to Waimea Canyon. Hawaii's "Grand Canyon". I personally have not had the pleasure of seeing this miraculous place, but hear it is something to be seen. Poipu has many restaurants with in a short drives distance, offering fresh fish and crab. Be sure to snorkel in Poipu! You will witness some of the most colorful fish you have ever seen and may be lucky enough to see a shark or swim with sea turtles! If you are planning a trip to Hawaii, hands down Kauai is the place to go!

boston & salem, massachusetts

2010-09-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hands down one of my favorite cities is Boston, Massachusetts. The city is so clean and has a quaintness about it that is almost impossible to find in a big city. The streets are lined with Irish pubs, Italian family owned coffee shops, and vintage stores. The North End is the little Italy of Boston. Kids play in the street till midnight with whiffle balls and bats. Mike's Pastry is so famous people line up for blocks to get a home-made cannoli. Cafe Vittoria and Cafe Fiore are small coffee shops that offer fantastic lattes, espresso, pastries, and genuine gelato. A walk on Newbury Street will take you through 100 year old churches, high end stores, and boutique shops. The end of the street will bring you to Boston Common. The city centre. Here you find college students playing Quidditch (yes from Harry Potter). Families are having picnics in the fields, and students are studying at benches. You are surrounded by ponds, statues, and green that is so vibrant you can't look away. As far as site seeing there is a Boston tour bus that allows you to hop on and off through out the entire city....or you can follow the freedom trail. Which is quite literally two white lines that take you to every major historical land mark. Our hotel was the Bulfinch, which I completely recommend. It is a small boutique hotel walking distance from North End, Charles Street, and the harbor. The harbor offers a water ferry that can take you on a day trip to the city of Salem. A city I recommend seeing. It is old and full of candy shoppes, museums, churches, and of course witch and wizard stores. The town itself has an eeriness about it that can't be explained. There are historic and vintage cemeteries almost on every corner with tombstones dating back to the 1800's. To really get the best experience of Massachusetts you must travel there during October. When the foliage is at it's peak and the weather is crisp and clear. The Bostonians will be sporting sandals, but us native Califorians will be sporting the coats and boots. It is a city that must be seen!!

jamaica.

2010-09-03T07:33:00.000-07:00

My Husband and I are married March 8th 2008. It is the best day of our lives, hands down. We are young and many people tell us we wont make it. However we have two major things in common that will keep our relationship strong and extremely fun. Travel and God. For our honeymoon people tell us..."GO TO HAWAII!" After our trip to Cancun I just cant imagine laying on a beach anywhere else but in the Caribbean. We decide on Ocho Rios, Jamaica. This place is so gorgeous and green you can't imagine how this island became a third world country. The people here are so happy and joyous. Posters of Bob Marley hang from every liquor store and market. It is Sunday morning when we arrive. Our drive is about two hours long, we are exhausted but the view along the way is hard to break from. Canoes float off the shore, puffs of smoke rise from the vast green jungle. Everyone is wearing their Sunday best. The Jamaican people are extremely humble and hard working. Although Jamaica has a bad rap for being the 3rd highest murder rate in the world you never get the uneasy feeling of being unsafe. The guided tours to Dunn's River Falls is a site to be seen. As you walk along the white sand you wait in line to literally hike up the water fall. The humidity from the jungle engulfs you, but the cool crisp water refreshes you instantly. The sound of the rushing water and tropical birds singing is so exhilarating. The Sandals Hotel is the perfect place! Never once do you feel like you are at a "resort". You are surrounded by tropical trees and flowers. The ivory beaches are stretched out for a mile and just a short walk away. The restaurants are high end and world class, serving delicious food from around the world. There is a small village a couple miles from the resort that is filled with cottages and the smiling people of Jamaica. They sell their hand made carvings of religious skulls and colorful jewelry made from coconut, pearl, and shells. The sun sets catch the sky on fire and on a clear day you can see the outline of Cuba. It is a peaceful place to sit on the beach, a jamaican smile in hand (jamaican appleton rum cream, daiquiri, and pina colada), and the warmth of the sun kissing your face.

cancun and chich'en izta

2010-09-02T20:40:00.000-07:00

I am sure there are plenty of people out there whom have had the pleasure of visiting Cancun. Besides Tijuana and Mexi Cali this was my first experience outside of the United States, and let me tell you what an amazing trip it was. I was lucky enough to accompany my husband's family (boyfriend at the time) to Mexico. Being to Hawaii previously I was completely biased. Siding with Hawaii of course. I am here to tell you there is nothing like the Caribbean waters. Jack Sparrow had it right from day one. The blazing sun is so strong on your skin you feel like leather, the sand so soft and white you feel like your walking on powder, the water so crystal clear and turquoise it feels more like a dream than reality. The nightlife is Mexico's version of Las Vegas. Baskets of chips plus shots of tequila lead only to karaoke and dancing at Senior Frogs or Margaritaville. The stunning hotels are filled with tables covered in sterling silver, precious stones, and delicious cuban cigars. We snorkel in Angel Cove....I see my first shark. As a group we travel by bus (not air conditioned) for a couple of hours arriving in Chich'en Izta. Over 1,000 year old Mayan Ruins will come into view. It is a site I will never forget, and never really fully comprehend. It is the oldest piece of history I will encounter until later in life. Standing in the middle of these ruins I close my eyes, I can feel the spirits. I can hear the drums and the singing. I can see the blood splattered against the stones from sacrifice. Which I will later come to learn is a common occurrence for the Mayan culture. Cancun is much more than a party vacation. It is entirely educational. It inspires my desire to visit South America, to embrace my future husbands roots.

the hippie lovin san francisco.

2010-09-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

San Francisco is one of the my favorite cities. The fact you can be walking around Union Square to do some amazing shopping, go a couple blocks in the wrong direction and you've landed yourself in the tenderloin district. Which has a flavor all on its own. I have been to the city a couple of times. Each trip experiencing something new. For first timers it is always great

to see the Fisherman's Warf. The clam chowder is do die for, and the aquarium is great for families. Not to forget about the amazing street performers! The Golden Gate Bridge is a walk every traveler should do. The Bart system I find extremely easy to get the hang of. Landing at SFO you can pick up the Bart and you can find yourself in the middle of the city in just a short ride. Haight Street is one of my favorites. The colorful stores piled one after the other.

For those vintage shoppers you will find what you need here. Artisits surround the city. Whether they are sculpting, singing, acting, painting...you can find your nitch here. Nightlife is impressive for those looking for it. You will find trendy bars or your local hole in the wall on every corner. Good friends of mine own a store named Shotwell....amazing vintage clothing. They sometimes will throw their own parties for frequent shoppers and friends. Golden Gate Park will bring you many adventures. From the protesters to the Flower Conservatory, to Romeo & Juliets Garden, to the De Young Museum. There is always something....or someone to take in. Our last trip we watched San Francisco Ballet at the War Memorial Opera House. The building alone is a site to be seen. It is a wonderful city and one that should be visited. I have been many times and have only experienced a fraction of what is to be seen.

bass lake

2010-09-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Since a baby my parents have brought

me to one of the most beautiful places

California has around. Bass Lake. It is

small, quaint, and extremely rustic but

offers a serene atmosphere I have trouble

finding anywhere else. We have always

camped, always will. Being away from

reality is what appeals to me the most.

Waking up to the sound of birds

or the warmth of the sun beating down

on your tent is breathe taking. The

hikes are hidden in the forrest beyond

the lake, sometimes difficult

to follow...but always worth the

view in the end. The smell of camp

fires roasting smores surrounds you

and the still sound of the lake is all

you hear each night. The juicy burger

from Forks is one of the best you'll

taste, and the local bar located in

the town of Pines will bring you the

colorful locals and a gorgeous view.

I will never forget the story of an

Uncle who ventured into a cove off

the main lake to discover millions

of lady bugs covering the moss and

rocks. Now where in California can

you say you've seen that.

the wanderer, the free spirit, the wild child.

2010-09-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was a little girl I have always wanted to travel the world. I guess you could call me some what of a nomad. My parents must of sensed this in me at a young age. Arriving by train, we trekked the vast cliffs of the Grand Canyon. I will never forget the heat seeping through the cracked windows, my glass bottled coke dripping with beads of water. My younger brother and I plunging off a colossal cliff the color of fire into the bone-chilling Colorado river. Purchasing turquoise jewelry from the local Sedona trading post.

Later on my parents will take me to Florida. The sunshine state....so they say. We get caught in a Hurricane named "Erin". My brother and I will be frightened from the storm and huddle under our covers with flashlights and our new toys from Disney World. Disney World is an amazing place. My personal favorite ironically ends up being Epcot. The one theme park that represents the culture and cuisine of the world. We will watch the Dutch clog, the Scotts play their bagpipes, and breathe in the sweet smell of french pastries.

My most unforgettable childhood trip winds up being on the East Coast. My parents will announce our trip the summer before, warning us we will miss Thanksgiving. I am devastated. Holidays from childhood to adulthood will carry some of my most treasured memories. The mer fact we will be missing this will instigate my pouting for weeks. Flying to Virginia will consist of torn emotions of excitement and despair. I have not flown on a plane in nearly 3 years and the butterfly feeling in my stomach, the rush of the plane taking off into the sky will be over-whelming. The east coast is like nothing I have ever seen. The leafs are the brightest colors of copper, rusts, and scarlet. The clear, crisp blue sky with just the slightest bitterness in the air. History surrounds me. The 100 year old buildings, the war memorials, and the museums. It is a Thanksgiving I will never forget. We visit Baltimore, D.C., North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. My grandparents will join us and bring a whole new perspective to the history I ingest. Years later, after I meet my husband I want more than anything to show him the beauty of the East Coast during the fall.

As a family, our trips will consist of visits to the big Island of Hawaii, Maui, Texas, and once again Florida. I alone will travel to Mexico for the most life changing mission trip I have yet to experience. We will sleep in tents in the middle of a cow pasture, eat pop tarts and cup o' noodle, and refrain from showering for days on end. I will build relationships with children, whom I can't even speak with, and the memory of them I will carry for a lifetime. Texas will bring a whole new perspective of my Dad's family. I will learn I am a distant cousin to the outlaw Jesse James. I will discover my Great Great Grandmother was a Cherokee Indian. I will embrace my "southern jeans" so to speak. From the polyester jeans, cowboy boots, and good ol' fashioned BBQ. Hawaii will leave a huge impression on me. One that leads me to pursue moving there all through out high school. The sweet smell of the Hawaiian air imprints on me like hot iron on skin. I wont be able to shake it. It is the first time I snorkel and surf. I immediately take to surfing like white on rice. The salty breeze in my face and my feet gripping the waxy board is a feeling I could get used too.

Traveling through out my childhood will open the door to my so called infatuation with wandering the world. My gypsy tendencies to bounce from one place to the next. My desire to experience the food, the culture, the art, and the history. I hope I encourage you all no matter what lies ahead or what your life consists of....you will travel NOW.