I never thought I would be performing in New York's St. Patrick's Day Parade, especially when I was still in high school. One year ago today was my senior year band trip to New York. Not only did I march in the St.Patrick's Day parade, but I also performed at Carnegie Hall. It was an unforgettable experience that changed my life.

We received a lot of advice about getting to Yosemite early, parking in one of the main lots and then taking the Shuttle, which takes you to just about every popular place, or you can hike from those popular places to where you want to be. This was our plan until my 14-year-old daughter sprained her ankle literally two days before our trip and ended up on crutches.  Our plans for hiking now had to be adjusted to Plan B: driving and parking as close to the sights as possible.

What better way to explore all of the beauty Carson Valley has to offer than to have a bird's eye view? Lake Tahoe Balloons. How can something be thrilling and peaceful all at the same time? It's an unique experience like no other.

Wandering The Loneliest Road in America, otherwise known as Highway 50 across Nevada, is going back to remembering what a road trip was supposed to be.

As many of you are already aware, I recently relocated from Chicago to Southern...