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.

Of all of the adventures anticipated I never expected to be photobombed by bears and eagles in Juneau, Alaska.

here it was, a real-life La Jolla moment. I could stay all day and watch, but I felt like momma wanted her privacy.  She will be a great caregiver to her baby I’m sure.  Did you know that baby sea lions memorize their momma’s bark?  The barking all sounded the same to me, but even each sea lion is unique.  This is their place, and we were just visiting.     I felt honored just to see this special moment and connect with the land and nature.  When we ask, "Is There More To Life?" these are the moments we are looking for. The real moments that make up our lives. 

The Channel Islands have always been this alluring beacon to me to come explore....

Mentryville Park is a tiny oil ghost town rich in history tucked away in a tiny corner of Pico Canyon.  It's an important piece of US History for its role in the Oil Boon, but still draws people today for its beautiful hiking trails set in the Santa Monica Mountains. It's recognizable from several tv and movie productions but also draws a crowd for its reputation for being haunted.