Category Archives: Travel and Adventures

Europe 2016: London

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Twelve years ago, I embarked on a journey that set my life on its present course. My first time in London was filled with wonder, learning, curiosity and a desire to see more of the world. It’s truly the greatest city in the world and was the perfect jumping-off-point for my formative college years. I went back 5 years ago and felt a contentment with my current life that made me love my memories that much more. 

I’ve wanted to show Sean this special place for a number of years and this trip was finally it. I showed him the city through my eyes and I think it actually was a disservice to him as he didn’t necessarily get to have his own unique experience. But 4 days isn’t much time and in the end we did a lot, saw a lot and made some great memories.  Continue reading →

New Year’s in the Outer Banks

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On November 29th, we were standing at the Pacific Ocean in San Diego, California. One month later, we were standing at the Atlantic Ocean in Rodanthe, North Carolina. Coast to coast in such a short time span – what a treat!

The theme of the first half of 2016 was “new home” with us selling our home and buying a new one. The theme for the second half of 2015 was “travel” because we simply couldn’t get enough. So it made perfect sense to take a little trip to the Outer Banks and ring in the New Year with my mom, stepdad, sister and all the dogs.

Off season on Cape Hatteras is quiet and peaceful. Many things are closed and nearly all the tourists are gone. It’s a great time to relax and enjoy the empty beaches and mild weather. The first few days were cloudy and rainy, but warm so we had some fun time on the beach. Our last day was cold but sunny and we saw a fabulous sunset on the ferry from Ocracoke Island to Cape Hatteras. Enjoy the pictures and Happy 2016! Continue reading →

California Road Trip: San Diego

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I know I’m a bit behind on getting this final post of our California trip done, but here it is! Whew!

On Thanksgiving morning, we left Solvang early and got on the road. We drove through the hills back over to the Pacific Coast Highway, headed to San Diego. This would be the last leg of our trip and we were both excited to explore the city and its many unique neighborhoods. 

We stopped off at many spots along the way, including several beaches, to take in the sights and revel at being in this glorious place. Every corner we turned gave us another amazing view. And we loved each one! Continue reading →

California Road Trip: Big Sur, the Central Coast and Solvang

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Our first few days in San Francisco, Point Lobos and Monterey were amazing and as our evening ended in Monterey on Monday, we grew more excited for the rest of our trip.

We woke up early on Tuesday and were greeted with cloudy skies and light rain. On our day to drive through Big Sur and down the coast. To say I was disappointed is an understatement. I stood in front of the window of our hotel room in Monterey, stamped my feet and pouted like a baby for 5 minutes. I then pulled myself together and set my mind to making the best of the day, regardless of the weather. After all, we had raincoats! Continue reading →

California Road Trip: San Francisco, Point Lobos and Monterey

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California dreaming. I’d been doing it for a long time. The weather, the natural beauty, the cities, the endless blue ocean, the wine, the food…it was time to make it a reality in 2015. Sean and I had both been before, but about 20+ years ago as kids. We were ready to experience this beautiful place again as adults. This is the first of three posts about our California road trip. Continue reading →

Birthday Weekend Getaway in the Mountains

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This was our 4th annual trip to the mountains for my birthday weekend. Hard to believe how fast the time has gone by! We had started going to the North Georgia mountains and getting a cabin – we did that for two years. Then my dad bought a small vacation home in Damascus, Virginia and although the drive is longer, it’s free. We also like that we go through Asheville, North Carolina and can stop on our way up or on our way home. 

As with every year, my birthday seems to fall on the first real cold snap of the season. The chilly weather is perfect for snuggling up with Sean and the pups and watching a movie and also nice for a brisk walk along one of the many and easily accesible trails in Damascus. Continue reading →

My Brother’s Wedding

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tyler and kymLast year on September 12th, my  brother and his fiancee Kym helped Sean and I on our special day in Savannah. This year on September 12th, Sean and I were in the wedding of my brother and Kym. While we share the same anniversary, the weddings and the events leading up to it were very different. It’s always nice to be back in Ohio and this time was no exception. The four days were a complete whirlwhind for me and Sean – I can’t imagine how it must have been for Tyler and Kym! 

We arrived in Ohio on Thursday morning, having left Pittsburgh early that morning. Continue reading →