American West, Brunch, California, Camping, Coffee, Dessert, Food, Hiking, Historic Sites, History, Museums, Opinion, Outdoors, School, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Wine, Wine and Drink, Writing

Coloma: California Gold

In this second post on the American River, we explore the Marshall Gold Discovery Center in Coloma, California and learn more about the history of the California Gold Rush.

American West, California, Camping, Deserts, Hiking, Historic Sites, History, National Parks, Outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Death Valley: A Galaxy Far, Far Away

If Golden Canyon looks a bit like they're out of a movie scene, it may be because it was used in the filming of "A New Hope." Formed by faulting and geologic uplift, Death Valley National Park has many scenic, other-worldly places to explore.

American West, California, Camping, Deserts, Hiking, Historic Sites, History, National Parks, Outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

Death Valley National Park

This is the first post of our Death Valley series. The national park is the lowest, driest, and hottest area in the United States, and there are many opportunities for adventure throughout the park.

Family, Historic Sites, History, Midwest, National Parks, Outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

Gateway Arch National Park

Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri became the 60th national park in 2018. The park encompasses the 630-foot arch, the Museum of Westward Expansion, and the Old Courthouse where the pivotal Dred Scott case was heard in 1847.

Breakfast, Brunch, Coffee, Family, Food, Historic Sites, History, Midwest, Outdoors, Parenting, Travel, Uncategorized, Writing

A Day in St. Robert, Missouri

While visiting Fort Leonard Wood, a military base in Missouri, the family visits attractions in the surrounding town of St. Robert, including the quirky 'town' of Uranus, Missouri.