Hiking, Historical sites, history, midwest, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Snyder's Castle Whenever I think of the state of Missouri, my first thought is lush green forests with natural bridges, charming streams, and European castles. I mean, where else would you go to find castle ruins and carriage houses... Though I jest, it is indeed true that one can pay a visit to an old… Continue reading Ha Ha Tonka State Park

american west, california, Camping, dinner, Family, Food, Hiking, history, outdoors, School, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Bridgeport, California

Also known as Great California Road Trips: U.S. 395, Part 2 Bodie gold mines Listening to my roadtrip playlist on Spotify while driving up U.S. 395, I have to imagine that at least one verse in John Cragie's I Am California, specifically where the song goes,'Yeah dig all my gold, soak in my springs, conquer… Continue reading Bridgeport, California

california, Camping, Dog, Hiking, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Chino Hills State Park

After Owen's recent hospitalization at a veterinary hospital for pneumonia, we've been taking it easier when it comes to outdoor activity. It's been about a month since he came home, and while he's maintained his puppy-like sweet and playful spirit, his body is definitely slowing down. He is still quite active, and following a fun… Continue reading Chino Hills State Park

Camping, Hiking, Historical sites, midwest, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Missouri State Parks: Table Rock Dam and the Hatchery

Table Rock Dam My idea of a fun day typically involves some kind of outdoor activity- usually a hike or a water activity like swimming or kayaking. Visiting a museum and seeing the local wildlife is icing on the proverbial cake. On our last day in Branson, we visited a couple spots where one could… Continue reading Missouri State Parks: Table Rock Dam and the Hatchery

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Palomar Mountain State Park

At the end of October, as the leaves began to change with the coming of autumn and the temperatures cooled to sweater weather, I was off and traveling again for work, this time helping to lead our group of sixth graders up to science camp in the forests of San Diego County. The trek was… Continue reading Palomar Mountain State Park