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Spaces & Places

Calculated Risks

  • June 2, 2020May 30, 2020

I am gravitated towards outdoor activities that are somewhat dangerous.

I tend to worry my dear mother with some of the things I decide to try.

While some people might consider my hobbies in the “extreme” sport category, I see them as calculated risks in which I carefully push my personal comfort limits.

In recent … Read more

Spaces & Places

The Best Hikes in Shenandoah River State Park

  • May 29, 2020July 1, 2020

I’m sure most of you have heard of Shenandoah National Park: waterfalls, vistas, wooded hollows – all encompassing part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Out of all the national parks I’ve visited, Shenandoah is the closest to home and the one in which I’ve spent the most time.

However, it wasn’t until recently that … Read more

New Orleans Trip

New Orleans and Bayou Recap

  • April 9, 2018March 12, 2019

Length of Stay:

  • 4 days, 4 nights

Highs:

  • Kayaking in the Bayou
  • Exploring the unusual cemeteries

Lows:

  • Spending more money than I had originally anticipated

Favorite Hike:

  • Bayou Coquille Trail and March Overlook (at Jean Lafitte NP)

Favorite Treat(s): [so many!]

  • Beignets
  • Seafood gumbo
  • Aligator meat po’boy
  • Crawfish étouffée fries

 … Read more

New Orleans Trip

In the Bayou

  • March 29, 2018March 12, 2019

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My last gator sighting had been in the wild world of the Everglades.

I was overdue for a look at one of these fascinating critters.

Chock one up for Louisiana – it sure packs a punch when it comes to the local flora and fauna found within the beautiful landscape of the Bayou. I … Read more

Mexico

Baja Cove Mexico Recap

  • November 26, 2017March 12, 2019

Length of Stay:

  • 5 days, 4 nights

Highs:

  • Gorgeous weather
  • Kayaking in the ocean with a sea lion

Lows:

  • Airports during holiday travel

Favorite Treat:

  • Tacos! My favorite was the shrimp, although the Mako shark was also tasty.
… Read more
Mexico

Sea Lions and Sea Slugs

  • November 24, 2017March 12, 2019

The waves picked up, barreling over my kayak as I struggled to paddle perpendicular to the shore. The salt spray blinded me momentarily until I was through the shore break and out into the relatively calm waters.

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It was a beautiful Thanksgiving day south of the border. An almost record high of 85° convinced me … Read more

About Me

About Me

National park expert. Nature enthusiast. Outdoor educator. These are the chronicles of my travels and discoveries around the country and throughout the world.

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