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One of the challenges of being transient for so many months is maintaining traditions. Since I don't always have all the tools I am accustomed to having at home, I find myself turning to Amazon frequently for the items that are missing in any given rental home and yet essential to continuing our favorite family customs. However, Amazon hasn't been easy or quick as we head deeper into the west. Their long delivery times, even with Prime, makes it difficult to coordinate getting what we need to the right address on time. But we make it work. Like most families, Halloween has always been a favorite holiday in our home. Each year, since they have been in preschool, we have invited the kids' friends over for Halloween cupcake decorating parties. They have loved decorating our doorway and foyer a month in advance and I loved seeing the themes getting spookier each year. Dressing up and trick-or-treating is of course the highlight of the holiday. This year, due to Covid, we won't be dressing up or trick-or-treating. Instead, I stocked up on candy (which is really what they love most about Halloween), we will watch a scary movie and enjoy a Halloween themed dinner (think Mummy Calzones). My husband and I will stand behind each door in the house that we rented in Palm Springs so they can simulate trick or treating and walk around from door to door collecting candy. It will be the two of us behind each door with different greetings or accents awaiting their knocks. We have no choice but to get creative. The difficult part is that we check in to the home on Halloween giving us very little time to whip up a festive dinner and get in the spirit. Luckily the Halloween ghouls and goblins are helping us ease the pressure. Most homes have a 4:00pm check in. The home in Palm Springs is the only we have rented yet that has a 3:00pm check in. This extra hour is such a blessing! In true tradition, a week before the holiday we baked and decorated cupcakes and carved pumpkins as we have done every year. The table wasn't filled with a dozen or so of their friends decorating with them, but they had fun together. That is all we have these days - each other. As much as they need their friends and social interactions, I am also secretly loving the bonding they are experiencing during the pandemic. If it were up to me, they would be spending all their time together, always. (last row of pictures were updated after post was published) From a mom's perspective it is difficult to maintain a sense of normalcy when deep down I know there is nothing normal about being on the road for almost four months and there definitely isn't anything normal about social distancing and living through a pandemic. With a little effort, it is quite simple to perpetuate a sense of regularity and routine. The end result might not be exactly as customary but together we learn to adapt and make the best of a situation. I won't lie though. As I look back at pictures from just one year ago I get a twinge of sadness. Everything was so "normal". The kids were all dressed up. We attended our building's Halloween Party. We went trick-or-treating. They celebrated with their friends. They dressed up at school. They marched in school Halloween parades. They are glowing with joy in all the pictures I have stored. It is an impossible task to replicate the excitement that comes with seeing thousands of people walking around NYC in costumes and getting together with friends as everyone is decked out. What are they really thinking in their young minds about all the changes they are experiencing? They say that they are looking forward to Halloween this year, but are they? How can they be excited when so much has changed? Nothing is less than ideal unless we allow it to be. Did you know that this year we will get a Blue Moon on Halloween? That's a pretty cool, fair exchange in my eyes. The universe takes a little bit and gives some back. It's just the natural course of things. As parents, it's our job to create the most ideal space for our family in any given circumstance. So, that's what we do. We adjust and roll with it. In our case, we do so with the help of four wheels on the road. Wishing everyone a beautifully different October 31st this year. Happy Halloween!

Driving to the western part of Utah was a huge adventure. Along the way we encountered a mini snow storm and freezing temperatures that appeared out of the blue. The snow and hail eventually subsided and turned into the most relentless wind we have ever experienced. For 24 hours it felt like a tea kettle was whistling wildly with no way to calm it down. The good news is, I realized I need a new book asap. I was on a really great reading streak that ended over the last month. When we couldn't go outside, and lost Internet connectivity entirely, I desperately longed for another great book in hand. I just ordered "Greenwood: A Novel of a Family Tree in a Dying Forest" and cannot wait to get lost in great reads again. On our way to St. George we had some sights we planned to visit, which we cancelled due to the weather. We did make a quick stop to The Sand Hollow Water Reservoir to enjoy the views offered at this desert oasis. Even with uncomfortable wind gusts, the sights of the canyons juxtaposed with the aqua waters drew me in for as long as I was able to tolerate the cold air. Utah doesn't disappoint. No matter the time of day, location, weather, etc... there will always be something waiting to take your breath away. We rented a house, Desert Lily, through airbnb, which was comfortable and spacious for our group. Due to the high winds, the entire area lost Internet connectivity for a full day which obviously is not ideal with three kids learning remotely. Thank goodness for phone hot spots! The house was large, clean, in a good location and had more space than we needed but there was something about the feng shui that didn't sit well with both myself and my husband. At first we thought the home's décor was a bit too contemporary for our taste but then we realized something bigger than aesthetics was causing both of us to feel "off" during our stay here. The house has eighty-nine 4.98 reviews. People loved their stay here and rave about the rental. Yet somehow the space wasn't conducive to a relaxing atmosphere for my hubby and I (our children loved it!). I tend to be very in tune with energy emitted by people and spaces. Perhaps its' not the home that is problematic but instead, the energy left behind by the almost ninety people who stayed here before us. I can't quite put my finger on it but there is another lesson to be learned here about listening, accepting and trusting our gut. Coral Pink Sand Dunes 3,700 acres of the softest, creamiest sand call to your feet urging them to make immediate contact while you make a run for the dunes. We've been to many beaches and the sand here can't be matched. We couldn't stop running our fingers through it. When the sun hit it just right it looked like gold was pouring out of our hands. Sandboards and sleds can be rented at the Visitor's Center on a first come, first serve basis. The kids had so much fun sliding down the gigantic sand dune we selected as our sliding base. Walking to its' peak was too difficult for me, I only made it up twice. Kids... they have an endless amount of energy and walked up that beast numerous times without ever being deterred by the difficulty of getting to the top with a board in hand. Honestly, watching them tremendously enjoying themselves was fun enough for me. At first we had a hard time sliding down the mountain. We were advised by the man at the Visitor's Center not to put a lot of wax on the board. A nice man who saw us struggling told us the opposite- "douse the boards in wax". Once we tried this tip, off they went! We spent over two hours in the sun and sand cracking up at all the spills and faces planted into the sand. As an audience member I had some great laughs - nothing like live slapstick comedy! Snow Canyon State Park This area was discovered by Mormons in the mid- 1800s when they were searching for cattle. I always imagine what it was like to be one of the pioneers who came across these incredible Utah sites. The parks here continue to offer new sceneries and landscapes. Nature skipped over any traces of redundancies while painting Utah. There are several trails to explore in Snow Canyon varying in length and difficulty. We chose Butterfly Trail and Jenny's Trail. Butterfly Trail Named after two stones that resemble the wings of a butterfly, the trail is utterly breathtaking. A mix of plants like sage brush and desert scrub, petrified dunes, golden sand, smooth slickrock and lava rocks make up the vast vistas here. Climbing down the large, downhill rock formations is a fun beginning to the trail which is 1.2 miles, round trip. Besides the initial part of the hike that has masterful rock formations which descend into the trail making it a bit tricky to get down (and ascend on the way out) this is a fairly easy trail. My favorite section is the one with the large lava rocks. You can still see where the lava poured through 1.5 millions year ago as the river-like formation remains in its' exact place so many years later. Jenny's Canyon Less than a five minute drive from Butterfly Trail, Jenny's Canyon is a short, half mile round trip trail with big offerings. This small slot canyon has such a spiritual vibe. Towards its back end, where the light doesn't cast its' magic, the dark rocks are reminiscent of a European cathedral. There is something calming and soothing in this space. Our kids were immediately drawn to the many inviting nooks. Later I learned that the canyon is named after a young girl who fell off a nearby cliff in 1994. Ugh. I'd like to think it was her spirit that I connected with in that space. I'm not sure if it was Jenny, but I definitely felt something (or someone). This is the most accessible slot canyon in Utah and is an extremely easy hike that is suitable for even toddlers. The light in the afternoon was beautiful. Orderville, UT: Booking a private jeep tour with East Zion Adventures is probably my biggest road trip planning accomplishment yet. Our guide took us to two unbelievably gorgeous slot canyons that even most locals do not know about. Everyone has Antelope Canyon on their slot canyon bucket list but these two are equally stunning and mostly untouched. We had them all to ourselves. Antelope Canyon is closed during the pandemic so we were unable to explore it but now that we have visited these beauties I can scratch Antelope off my bucket list. I just can't imagine it being anymore beautiful than the ones we explored here. Orderville is roughly 30 minutes outside of Zion National Park. We met our guide at Ponderosa Ranch and then drove over to Orderville to switch into our jeep. Our ride resembled a Disney roller-coaster with bumps galore and some major thrills at fast turns on high and narrow trails. Our oldest son said he felt like he was in a virtual reality simulation. The wind, sound of the engine, hands clamped tight on the bars, and jaw dropping scenery certainly made the experience feel unreal. Upper Red Cave Lower Red Cave Ten minutes away through sandy terrain lies another undiscovered slot canyon. I really struggle with how to describe the sensations we all experienced walking through them. I felt enveloped and hugged by miracles and magic. The lighting added to the dramatic scenery and each angle and curve just blew us away. The kids couldn't stop thanking us for booking this excursion. Seeing these in person is definitely a highlight of all our travels to date. Zion National Park This massive park is one of the best known and most visited parks in the USA. There are endless trails and activities to be enjoyed here. One can easily spend a week here without getting bored. Sadly we were unable to spend much time in Zion. Even in the glimpse we were able to catch while driving through for an hour or so with some stops to soak in the views at lookout points, we were able to grasp its' bewitching effects. This park remains on our list of places to delve into more deeply. One day we must come back to get to know her better. Camping here is in our future. Watching the sun set over her mountains as they glowed in delight was an epic way to end our visit to Utah. I am beyond grateful for the two weeks we have spent in the various parts of Utah. If you don't believe in miracles, visiting the state will convince you otherwise. From the outside everything appears the same: long stretches of red canyons. Then, you make the effort to get to know a path better and you find layers and layers of magic. Each park and trail offers something completely unique. Somehow every environment seems to get more and more beautiful. There are few words to describe the omnipotent effect Utah has on its' visitors. Add Utah to your list. ASAP.

After Telluride we decided to return to Utah knowing that there was still much left to explore and discover. The small town of Moab is a bustling little place central to several popular national parks. As we learned from our previous visit to the state, Utah is incredibly scenic in a surreal, should-we-pinch-ourselves kind of way. If you ever wondered what it would be like to traverse another planet, Utah is the closest you will get to finding out what it's like. Goblin Valley National Park The structures here, known as Hoodoos or Goblins, formed 40-70 million years ago from sand erosion caused by a nearby ancient sea. What is left are endless mushroom like structures that are happily climbed and photographed. In the formations you will spot faces, animals, and even um, penises (sorry, this is too obvious to avoid!). The kids loved climbing the rocks and finding hidden trails and caves. This park is a dream of a playground for young and old alike. We arrived to the park around 10:30am and the parking lot was almost full. By the time we left there was a line to enter. I suggest arriving as early as possible. Once you park you can freely explore the goblins. I believe there are some hiking trails as well but to be in the thick of the experience just walk around at your own volition and marvel at nature's bountiful beauty! For lunch we ate at the most delicious Mexican restaurant called Tacos La Pasadita. We researched well reviewed restaurants in advance so we knew this would be a good lunch option but we didn't know just how delicious it would be. They don't have a menu. Instead, they have made to order customized burritos, tacos, quesadillas and basic Mexican bites with not so basic flavors. We each ordered our own tailored burritos that were so yummy we literally each groaned with delight at each bite. The tortilla makes the dish- it is so fresh and buttery. Never did we think we would find such a great lunch spot in a converted gas station in the middle of Green River, Utah. This is a must dining stop when needing a quick bite between park explorations. Dead Horse Point State Park Dead Horse is another other-worldly stop but with a drastically different landscape. We opted to walk along the trail between Meander Outlook and Dead Horse Point Outlook. At 5,900 feet high there are the most glorious views of the canyons and Colorado River below. Legend has it that Cowboys use to wrangle the native mustangs and corral them by the river. They would select the horses they wanted to keep and leave the unwanted ones behind, tied, dying of thirst while staring at the Colorado River. Gosh, why are humans so cruel? They could have just untied the horses they didn't want. For lodging we stayed at Hoodoo Moab Curio Collection by Hilton. The location is fantastic and we really liked the retro-modern décor in neutral desert colors. The food we ordered from their restaurant exceeded our expectations. Evenings were lively with outdoor music playing and many folks enjoying the outdoor bar. My husband and I had a nice break from the kiddos for two nights. The hotel wasn't able to accommodate us with connecting rooms so while the kids were down the hall we enjoyed our outdoor terrace overlooking the crowd while practicing social distancing and still feeling like we were part of the party. Arches National Park We woke up early to see this beautiful park at sunrise, which wasn't until 7:38am, making it easy to wake up at a pretty reasonable time since the park isn't too far from the hotel. Driving through the park to reach the Delicate Arch Trail as the sun started to slowly light up the dark sky was such a beautiful treat. As a family, we never experienced the sunrise together before. When we arrived at 7:15am the parking lot was already almost full. Many others shared the same goals as us. I can understand why. The landscape changing colors as the sun wakes up is simply something unforgettable. The hike is a moderate one with an incline of 600 feet through vistas of canyons, smooth rocks, deep sand and narrow, high ledges that got my heart pumping a little faster as I quickly crossed them. After approximately 1.5 miles of trails we reached the arch. Needless to say, we were blown away by its' beauty. We kept wondering what it was like for the first explorer that trekked through this vast area to discover this magical site and then share his/her findings with the rest of us. Whoever it was, thank you. Thank you for sharing this little piece of heaven with all humanity and not keeping it for yourself. Thank you for allowing us to experience nature at her finest once again. At the base of the trail there is a historic abandoned home and a trail with petroglyphs. Make sure not miss this in all of the excitement to get to the arch. We knew some bad weather was approaching later in the day and were surprised by nature's angry winds arriving earlier than expected. Because the trail near the arch is on a pretty high and narrow trail and the wind gusts felt like they were toying with the idea of blowing some folks around, we quickly turned around hoping to arrive back to our car before the skies released their rains. Luckily we made it just in time! We were planning to visit the Canyonlands afterwards but changed our itinerary in hopes of avoiding bad weather. Ironically, as we drove West to St. George, five hours away, we quickly learned that Nature has her own way of doing things and whatever she has in mind is unavoidable. Out of nowhere we got hit by a mini snow storm full of hail, snow, ice and the whole shebang. Within five hours we went from 67 degree temperatures, with plenty of sunshine, to unrelenting winds and freezing temperatures. What an adventure! I realize how lucky we are to have this tremendous opportunity to discover the USA together. Not a moment goes by where I don't reflect on the experiences we are sharing together as a family. I honestly don't know how I will return to "real life" at the end of this road trip journey. Being with my crew this long has turned me into a social hermit. They fulfill me with everything I need. They are all I need. They are the sunrise of my days; the sunshine, the storms, the wind, and the sunsets too. They have become even more encapsulated in the air I breath, the dreams I dream and the thoughts I think. How will I let this dreamy, unreal experience go? I realize that despite how long the road trip lasts, it will come to an end. All things do. For now, I will just keep following them wherever they go. This too will end. One day they'll turn around and ask for some space. As the days and sights begin to blur, I will continue to focus on the one thing that is crystal clear: we must, along with Gods help, live our best lives and realize our dreams. Like the weather in Utah, anything can and will change at any moment. I will continue to maximize the fleeting moments for as long as I can. Utah is filled with a myriad of National Parks that showcase Nature in all her glory. You can easily spend an entire month here. Off we go to explore one last part of this stunning state!

Telluride was love at first sight. Within one hour of arriving, two of our children begged us to move here. For days they continued to make their pleas and share their fantasies of making Telluride a new home. It's impossible not to instantly fall in love with the streams, lakes, crisp air and sunny skies which are all surrounded by mountains that transform throughout the day with the sun's every whim. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains Mother Nature tucks this town into a happy space and completely removes any traces of the city life we are accustomed to back home. 2,500 people call this special place their home. Lucky them. The town shuts down in November, its' slowest month, in preparation for a massive ski season ahead. Otherwise, Telluride is a year round destination pushing its' visitors and residents to the great outdoors whenever possible. We rented a house in Mountain Village through Silver Star Telluride, a local management company. The house had a wonderful modern cabin feel with stunning mountain views and of course, great WiFi which is our most crucial criteria! Mountain Village is seven miles from the town of Telluride and almost 1,000 feet higher at 9,547 feet. It is the heart of the ski resort and is beautifully designed for the thousands who visit each ski season. There is a free gondola that transports two million riders each year between the two towns. Our kids loved riding the gondola on their own, meeting us at different locations, as we tried to navigate our days. I must admit, commuting in a gondola with gorgeous mountain views beats a NYC subway ride any day! Just as the kiddos convinced me to face my fear of heights and ride the gondola with them, it closed for the month. I was so mentally prepared for the challenge but secretly relieved I was off the hook. The village is upscale and filled with restaurants, boutiques, and one of the most beautiful supermarkets we've shopped in yet. It is extremely pedestrian friendly as well. Between the two towns you really never have to get in a car. Off ski season there is an element of exclusivity here. Those who live here year round are privy to a lifestyle many never experience. We hope to return later in the ski season to experience the mountain when it comes most alive. A friend who lives here said that the winters are warm because the sun shines so bright and that it is common to see locals jogging in t-shirts when the town is draped in snow. Sounds like my kind of winter! Folks in Telluride are pretty good about wearing their masks but not great. I would estimate that half of them do not wear one when they are outdoors running, mountain biking or even strolling. I know that it is not comfortable to wear one when exercising but the last thing I want is someone heavily breathing in my air space when we pass one another. Our son met up with an old friend that moved here seven years ago. It was an adorable reunion. Later on our son told us that his friend mentioned that there have only been two cases of Covid in Telluride. I later fact checked this estimation. Although there have been zero deaths, there have been one hundred confirmed cases thus far. Perhaps the low numbers here persuade residents to continue breathing in the fresh mountain air without fear of contracting the virus. The sunsets from Sunset Plaza on Mountain Village are impossible to describe. Watching nature work her magic here is an unforgettable experience. As the sun begins to set the San Juan Mountains slowly start to glow and in tandem with the sun, they begin to change their colors. The sky lights up like a bright flame and over time eases into a peaceful pink. Sunset is an epic part of the day. Telluride is an old mining town comprised of colorful Victorian Homes, a town center filled with rows of shops and restaurants lined up on Colorado Avenue, a bunch of local hiking trails, and a thriving community with a wonderful public school system. The small town is built in the valley so that the surrounding mountain views dominate the horizon. Telluride is truly a treasure. Hiking: Needless to say, there are infinite trails in the area that appeal to hikers at every level. Due to the mountainous terrain most trails require some uphill walking. Even the ones that are marked "easy" can be quite difficult for those not accustomed to inclines. Keystone Gorge Loop Trail: This trail is just a few minutes drive from town. It is marked as "easy" but we will unanimously contest this. The hike is a relatively short 2.5 mile loop but there are many very steep and slippery parts of the trail and on the way back there is an ascension of five hundred feet within .5 miles of the hike. It is definitely a challenging hike but oh so worth the pain and panting! The first part of the trail is hugged by a creek and breathtaking views. There are also fun parts where some rock climbing is required and narrow trails that add to the thrill. In order to get over to the return part of the loop we had to cross a pretty wobbly suspension bridge that can only handle a capacity of six people at a time. Needless to say, between the shaky bridge, the slippery slopes, the narrow trails and the never ending climb back up, this hike had my heart racing for its duration. I was so proud of our kids for getting through it. Difficult hikes definitely test your mind and ability to push through. The exhilaration that serves as a completion prize is just the best. Coronet Creek Falls Coronet Creek Falls Trail is right in town. Locals have access to some of the most beautiful trails within walking distance of their homes. Like most trails in Telluride, the hike is a relentless incline. We have all noticed that the high elevation here has been making it more difficult for us to trek challenging hikes making us pant and desperately work at catching our breath. The trail is short and we were quickly rewarded with a gorgeous waterfall at the top of the mountain. The terrain reminded me of Santa Fe and Utah where the earth is often red. It's incredible how much the landscape here varies. We spent a solid amount of time admiring the stunning scenery in sheer awe of what we were witnessing before us. Bear Creek Falls Also right off the main street in town, this is another wonderful trail. We spent two and a half hours hiking and ascending this steep part of the mountain with old friends that moved to Telluride from Manhattan seven years ago. It was so great to catch up with them as we all immersed ourselves in the beautiful surroundings. Their dog, Pickle, was a welcomed addition - it's so fun to see how happy the dogs in Telluride are with so much freedom to explore. The hike is approximately a two mile steady incline with quite a history. We passed by a section called Avalanche where an avalanche ripped through the mountain a couple of years ago leaving thousands of trees uprooted. Our friends told us about two friends who died in avalanches here skiing the "back country trails". Petrifying. I literally got chills walking past this graveyard of trees. Little Hawaii It was my mission to find Little Hawaii off the Bear Creek Trail hike. Even our friends, who are locals, haven't found this haven yet. Together, with the few clues we had, we found the magical oasis tucked into the mountain. The two logs serving as a foot bridge to enter the trail was an adventure in itself. Getting on the path I crossed the bridge on all fours but on the way back, feeling empowered by finding the falls, I walked across with confidence. It's hard to describe where Little Hawaii can be found. Approximately twenty minutes into the hike, on Bear Creek Trail, look to your left and down the hill you will spot (although not so easily) the foot bridge comprised of two logs shown below. Once you cross, immediately veer to your left and follow the muddy path until you spot the falls and gorge. This is truly a special spot as this lovely canyon pops out of no where with a water fall feeding the gorge the bluest of waters. Bridal Veil Falls/ Silver Lake By far the most challenging hike we have ever taken, this trail pushed our limits and our bodies like nothing else ever has. We hiked 8.25 miles over 4.5 hours ascending 2,608 feet to an elevation of 11,600 feet. Nature continuously rewarded us for our loyalty and determination with water falls, streams and incredible views. She also provided constant reminders of her ominous power showing us paths of destruction from avalanches and forcing us to relent to her grace and kindness. There were moments I literally thought I was going to slide down five hundred foot slopes that were so steep and impossible to maneuver without prayer and hope. Our children impressed me so much with how little they complained and how naturally they plowed through this extremely challenging hike as if it's something they are accustomed to. Our daughter shed a few tears on the steep climb up watching rocks slip beneath her feet as well as on the way down when we all constantly slipped and fell on our butts. By the end of this hike, my pants had two rips, her shorts were torn and we were all scraped up with scratches and bruises. Despite all this, we were all so thrilled with our accomplishment and our endorphins were pumping strong for quite a while. The initial plan was to drive up to Bridal Veil Falls and then walk up the two miles to Silver Lake. Fear got the best of us when we saw the high, narrow roads along the mountain. We also were easily deterred when a couple of cars turned back around and warned us not to proceed. Eager to get to the falls and the well-known Alpine lake, we walked up to the Falls instead of driving. In retrospect, we could have driven as the roads were not as scary as they were made out to be. While 1.5 miles doesn't sound like a lot, when you're climbing hundreds of feet it's torturous. As soon as the temperature suddenly dropped several degrees we knew the falls were finally nearby. Although a bit dried out, it was still a stunning sight, especially witnessing the waters as they begin to freeze into beautiful formations. Fear (when can we kick this guy out of our trip?) set in once more around 4:30pm when we hit a forest and the lake seemed nowhere to be found. My husband had a little freak out about being deep in a mountain during dusk (i.e. feeding time for the bears and wild cats that scour these peaks). Although I was nervous too, I was eager to get to the lake but was unable to convince him to proceed. Adding to that, a lone hiker below us thought it would be funny to growl like a bear giving us quite a fright. On a better note, our oldest son was walking ahead at a faster pace and was lucky enough to get to the lake and reap the benefits of all the energy he just put into finding it. We were only twenty minutes away from the prize, but my hubby was in papa bear mode and just wanted to get out of the woods before we became dinner for another species. Even though we didn't make it to the lake, the hike gave us such a sense of empowerment and accomplishment, which is a gift in itself. Accomplishing this with my family will always be one of my most cherished memories. In Telluride I could feel a very quick change in myself and immediate personal growth. Being in nature daily inspired me to practice gratitude even more than I already do. There is a constant reminder here of how small we are in such a great, vast world but that even in this smallness we need to find a bigger purpose. Telluride also pushed me to new heights, literally and metaphorically. I faced so many fears here and participated in activities I would normally have avoided. Thank you Telluride for your magical presence, incredible memories and unforgettable beauty.

As I cuddled in bed with my son last night I took a moment to recognize that his Lamby has travelled everywhere with us since he was just a baby. This lamb has been on more adventures than most. He has been with us on every flight and every road trip. Wherever we are in the world, Lamby is a constant. Lamby had me thinking a lot about home and how we define it. Since we haven't been "home" since March, home has been redefined in our lives as an abstract construct that in reality is not just a space that has walls, a ceiling, and a bunch of things collected over the years. In fact, home is not tangible. Home goes way deeper than the physical shape we like to box it into. Being on this road trip has me realizing that home is actually anywhere, at any given moment, as long as you are with the people you love most. Home is a state of being that could be anchored at any time in any place. Home is transient, if we are. Home is fixed, if we are. We create our homes, not architects . While we choose to adorn our homes with nice furniture and accessories, the most meaningful décor are the ones that cannot be seen- the laughter, the memories, the struggles, etc... Merriam-Webster defines home as "the place where a person lives; a family living together in one building, house etc". I would dare to edit this and simplify the definition as "the place where a person lives; a family living together". Why is home limited to one building/house? Take a moment to think of all the subtle, and not so subtle, ways our lives are predefined if we allow them to be. Home for us is no where and everywhere. Home has been our car, now the central point of endless conversations, podcast listening, singing along to tunes, eating meals, arguing, laughing, etc. Home has been at dozens of dining room tables, countless hiking trails, and in various cities. Home has been on the beach, in the mountains and in the desert. The experiences we are sharing together are the central flame that connects us. As long as that flame continues to burn, we will be home. Our physical home, the one conventionally limited to the "one place of residence" is sitting empty in Manhattan. Our temporary homes change weekly as we move through the states and in and out of hotels and rental homes. But home, the real, true place where we feel safest, secure, deeply loved and happiest is anywhere we are together. Home is where families make memories, grow together and make mistakes together. Wherever love is, home is. For us, although maybe not mainstream, home is in a thousand places. It could be on a beach in South Carolina or in the highest mountain peaks of Tennessee. "There is no place like home". Does this powerful expression point to a physical structure? When we are in our physical home space are we comforted by its' tangible aspects or the feelings we associate with the space and time within it that we have created for ourselves? When we realize that the memories and security we have built within those walls can actually be carried with us anywhere, a new level of freedom is achieved. So, for those who wonder if I miss home, no, I don't miss "home" because I am home.

We have been fortunate enough to have taken some great traveling adventures over the years and have visited some pretty spectacular places. The Southwestern United States definitely makes the top ten list of most epic areas we've visited in our travels. The landscape is so vibrant, so crisp, so surreal... I often wondered out loud if what we were looking at was a fragment of my imagination. The landscape is otherworldly. There were many moments when it felt like we just discovered a new planet, most likely Mars' sister planet. During our road trip we have been consistently blown away by our country's beauty but Utah is on a whole other level. The only negative thing I can mention about Utah is that NO ONE here is masked. Not the tourists, not the employees, no one. This is the one place we have had moments of feeling really uncomfortable and too close for Covid comfort. We even asked for our guide in a private excursion that we booked to wear a mask. He didn't. It's just not a thing here. Utah is a hotspot for cases right now and yet no one seems even slightly fazed by the high number of cases in the state. Clearly everyone is paralyzed by the surroundings' overwhelming beauty to even realize there is a pandemic taking place. In retrospect, we made a bad move booking a hotel in Lake Powell, Arizona rather than Lake Powell, Utah (just 5 minutes apart). The constant crisscrossing between Arizona and Utah for the nearby sites, with both states being in different time zones, made tracking time challenging and forced us into waking up at 5:00am to meet 8:30am EST commitments for work and school. Yet, we adjusted and the blurring of time enhanced the ethereal experience of being here. We were sucked into a beautiful black hole filled with red clay not knowing where we were or what time it was. Waking up at 5:00am sucked but once we surrendered to getting lost in the abyss of time and space we maximized our eight glorious days here. We stayed at The Hyatt in Page, AZ. Their extremely reasonable prices allowed us to book four rooms so that each child had their own room/space for their schooling hours. The WiFi was fantastic making remote schooling as smooth as possible. The location of the hotel is wonderful and the outdoor patio boasts fantastic views, I couldn't dream of a better office space. There really are no words to describe the infinite beauty in Utah. Rather than try to describe it, I will share our itinerary in hopes that it makes it easy for you to plan your trip to Utah because everyone should experience it at least once. Day One: From Santa Fe we drove towards Monument Valley, Utah. The six hour drive took us through gorgeous sites packing our drive with major eye candy. We did hit an obstacle with a lack of water. When we left Santa Fe we planned to stop at the first shop we passed to load up on water bottles. We never expected to drive almost six hours before finding a solution to hydrate. The Navajo Reservation spans almost the entirety of the drive towards Monument Valley and while there are tons of shops and gas stations along the way, they were all closed. All state parks on Navajo land are closed due to Covid and we learned the hard way that everything on the reservation was closed too. Luckily a Hamptons Inn was open and sold us water bottles just in time to satiate our thirst before arriving at Monument Valley. After the park, we drove one mile to Goulding's Lodge which had an open market and stocked up on more water knowing that we might not have another hydrating station for the hours ahead. Anyone driving through this area during the pandemic should make sure to be very well stocked with water! Monument Valley was closed. Although we weren't able to hike through the park, we were able to enjoy its' most iconic rock formations through various vantage points. We couldn't resist heading over to Forrest Gump Hill for some fun photos and truly remarkable views. Gosh this country is gorgeous. On the way to Utah we had a blast weaving in and out of Utah, Colorado and Arizona within minutes. Their borders (along with New Mexico's) all come together at the famous Four Corners. Unfortunately, this monument was closed too but we didn't feel like we missed out since we were able to monitor where the borders met on our GPS screen. I never imagined I could be in four states at once! Day Two: We began the day early and took a two hour drive to Grand Staircase Escalante. One hour of the drive is on an unpaved dirt road suited best for 4 x 4s. The rugged drive was a treat in itself adding to the adventure of reaching this remote and difficult to access landmark. There are two ways to enter The Cottonwood Trail - the north trail and the south trail. We started at the south trail entrance, which I highly recommend because the beauty continues to escalate along the path with a big finale of canyon slots towards the end. The hike was an overall easy one, with some parts requiring boulder climbing. The terrain cannot be described with words. We were all left speechless after this hike, feeling overwhelmed and humbled by the wonders of nature. Over the two and a half hour hike we crossed paths with less than ten other folks which made the isolated journey even more remarkable. Next we drove an hour and a half to Bryce Canyon National Park. We opted to begin by visiting several of the majestic view points: Inspiration Point, Bryce Point, and Rainbow Point, beginning at 8,100 feet and slowly ascending another thousand feet. The views once again were mind blowing. My brain literally had a hard time processing the sights. We were on top of an unreal, painting-like landscape, as if we were locked in some virtual reality capsule where we had a birds eye view of the epic terrain. The pictures don't capture the striking rock formations that span along the canyons thousands of feet below. Inspiration Point Bryce Point Rainbow Point Natural Bridge After driving to the various look out points we headed to Navajo Trail for two short yet unforgettable trails: Wall Street and Two Bridges. At Wall Street visitors begin at the top of the canyon and zig zag down hundreds of feet into a small cave at the bottom of the valley that has one lonesome tree right smack in the middle of nowhere. Mother Nature never seizes to amaze. It gets chilly as you descend so bring an extra layer! Two Bridges, just a few feet away from Wall Street's entrance, exposes a completely different viewpoint although equally stunning in its own right. It's almost impossible to capture all the details with an iPhone camera. Each one of us was able to spot a face, a figure, a finger pointing to the sky, a bird, etc... carved into the rock formations. I can only imagine what the Native Americans believed when they discovered this site. They were constantly surrounded by Godly signs as we were when we visited all these years later. The canyons radiate spiritual vibes. Day Three: Lake Powell We rented a boat through Renegade Boat Rentals and spent eight heavenly hours on the lake soaking in the sights and sun and having a blast tubing in the warm waters that alter from bright green to deep blue hues. Rainbow Bridge A friend recommended we visit Rainbow Bridge while in the area. The park is closed and all tours to the park are closed as well. When we rented the boat I asked if we were able to access the site on our own. For just a few extra bucks than it would have cost the five of us on a seven hour organized tour, with other tourists, we were able to have our own boat for the day and still access the park with barely anyone around. Any family visiting once the pandemic ends should consider renting a private boat to enjoy the lake at their own pace while still experiencing this sacred site. It is so hard to absorb this monument's grandeur. To help place it into context, from its' base to its' height, the arch is almost as tall as the Statute of Liberty. The trail leading up to it is so majestic and ominous, you'll forget you're looking for the bridge! Day Four: Since this was a school day for the kids, we waited until after lunch to take a walk over to the Glen Canyon Dam Bridge to revel in this magnificent man made structure that is suspended seven hundred feet in the air. Each time a truck drove by the bridge would rattle and my heart would pound. For those like me that don't like heights, this is a thrill ride! In the evening we booked a private "sunset & stars" jeep tour with Epic Adventures. The excursion was pretty epic and lived up to its' name. We drove in a buggy through the rugged terrain of the Grand Staircase Escalante ascending towards peaks that boasted incredible views as the sunset began to paint the sky with beautiful hues. Our tour guide, Mark, has lived in Utah for forty years and is one with the land sharing so many interesting facts about the landscape. This guy even has a sweat lodge in his back yard! Once the stars came out we were silenced by the sky above us. The milky way was so visible, Mars shown bright red, Jupiter twinkled, satellites orbited above us... we were able to see all this with our naked eyes! As if this tour wasn't incredible enough we then proceeded to hunt for scorpions in the pitch blackness of the night. The kids squealed with joy as we spotted a few of these not-so-cute fellas. What a night! Day Five: Wednesdays are busy school days for the kids. It seems to be the day they have the most homework and our daughter also has after school dance class. Today we took it easy and walked a lovely trail behind the hotel, The Page Rimview Trail. This is a ten mile trail popular with mountain bikers that overlooks canyons and parts of Lake Powell. While lodging at The Hyatt, I loved walking this trail early morning just when the sun began to rise and the temperature was perfectly cool. Later in the day we went to one of the Glen Canyon lookout points to soak up stunning views of Lake Powell. Of course, throwing some rocks over the edge (safely) couldn't be missed, boys just seem to love doing this whenever possible. We noted how huge the canyons seemed when we spent the day on the lake yet how tiny they appeared from the look out point about seven hundred feet higher. Perspective changes everything. Literally. Day Six: Thursdays are the only weekday when no one has an extracurricular after school activity freeing up some time to explore a bit further than home base. Today we jumped in the car and drove an hour to Buckskin Gulch with the hopes of embarking on a 3.5 mile hike on the Wire Pass Trailhead. On the way to the trail, we got distracted by a sign pointing to "Buckskin Gulch" and took that path instead of sticking to our original plan. The hike was a lovely one with lots of yellow wildflowers in a vast, green meadow. Honestly, after 1.5 miles of walking under full sun exposure we had enough of the scenery. Slightly disappointed that we didn't find the slot canyon we were searching for, we returned to the car exhausted and thirsty after trekking for three miles in high temperatures. Still motivated, we decided to have a go on the initial trail we planned for, Wire Pass Trailhead. After walking .7 miles in a similar landscape we decided to just head back to the car. We were just beat. When we got back to the hotel we learned that if we were just a little more patient a gorgeous gulch would have welcomed us at the 1.7 mile mark of The Wire Pass Trail, which was what we were looking for all along. We never made it to the gulch but we did learn a good lesson in trusting our instinct (we should have stuck to our original researched trail), being patient (we were so so close to what we were seeking) and that one can never pack too much water when in the desert. Day Seven: On our last full day in this area of Utah we contemplated returning to The Wire Pass Trailhead to accomplish our unmet goals from yesterday. It was just too tight with our daughter having a 3:00pm dance class and the sun setting at 6:30pm. The last thing we wanted was to be stuck in darkness on a trail and having to drive back on an unpaved road for eight miles in complete darkness. So, Buckskin Gulch will remain on our list for a future visit. Our Plan B was a terrific one. Hanging Garden was a short five minute drive from our hotel and an easy hike with jaw dropping, expansive views. As you hike the path you'll suddenly reach a massive rock perched on a hill with lush greens growing right out of its' side. Miles of striated rocks stretch to the horizon and we couldn't resist walking off the path to explore further out. How small we are in this great, big world. For our final evening, we wanted a pretty memorable end to our stay. We left Horseshoe Bend last on our itinerary to close out this leg in Utah. As the sun began to set we were overtaken by gratitude for having the opportunity to experience this exceptional part of our country. Day Eight: We got to sleep in, yay! After a week of 5:00am alarms it was nice to start the day slowly. The Hyatt offers a 12:00pm check out further nurturing our goals to calmly get started before loading up the car and heading to our next destination! Off we go Lake Powell. Thank you for the most incredible memories.

I hate "what ifs". They haven't occupied my mind for quite a while but when they do it's quite a battle killing their roots before they deeply anchor themselves. Being immersed in nature and living a calmer lifestyle for the past few months has really centered me and pulled me into a healthier mental and physical place. Then two nights ago, these relentless uninvited guests crept their way back into my thoughts. As soon as they invaded my mind, I quickly envisioned a boxing glove jabbing every one of these exhausting pests and charging at them with a fierce uppercut aimed at eradicating them for good. This is my go to exercise when negative thoughts try to make their way in. In June, when our stay in Long Island was coming to an end, we were trying to figure out our next steps. We did not want to return to Manhattan under its' condition during the pandemic. Many nights we spoke for hours trying to decide where to go next. Then it occurred to me that we can go everywhere, and nowhere, and just get in a car and hit the road. My spouse thought the idea was brilliant. Then, rather than jump with joy that he loved the idea, my mind went to the "what ifs". What if schools don't go remote and our children miss school? What if leaving home will be too disruptive for our children? What if a second outbreak hits and we are locked out of states having to drive back home with no stops in between? What if moving around a lot exposed us to Covid? What if we get into a car accident along the way? What if, what if, what if..... After a full on boxing match with my thoughts, courage ultimately won and we started making the plans for a pretty epic experience. Two nights ago they came back, right after I completed the road trip plans for the next couple of months ahead- these sneaky little thoughts that want to hold me back and cripple my enthusiasm. What if heading west is a bad idea? What if we get stuck in the wildfires? an earthquake? an avalanche? What if the roads during winter are so bad we can't drive? What if states are on lock down and don't let non-residents in and then we are unable to get back east? What if someone gets hurt while skiing? What if the economy crashes further while we are spending all this money traveling? Oy... they just wouldn't stop multiplying their negative little voices in my brain cells. Every time I plan something exciting, they seem to make an appearance. Why won't they just let me be happy? In life we can easily focus on all the reasons not to do something. Yet, most times when we conquer our fears and drown the "what ifs" we feel empowered and improved for it. My mind had a myriad of reasons not to embark on this road trip even though the whole idea was devised by it! It's too expensive, it's irresponsible, it's too unplanned, it's too dangerous, etc... The fight to clear the "what ifs" so we can proceed with an unforgettable traveling plan was a pretty strenuous one. I am so happy I ultimately won that battle. Where do these thoughts come from? And how do we discern the "what ifs" that try to impede us from our intuition which guides us in the right direction? Why do we like to focus so much on the future which is in actuality an abstract concept? I see so many people who are perfectly capable of pursuing their dreams being locked down by fear and continuously giving the "what ifs" prime real estate in their heads. They have let the "what ifs" conquer and colonize their minds leaving them unable to pursue their dreams and goals. A road trip is a pretty solid metaphor for life. We must recalibrate when doubts creep in, change the oil, get back on the road and drive through all the peaks and valleys while embracing the paved roads, along with the dirt roads, with a general plan in hand and a strong willingness to take a detour when need be. I hope these unwanted houseguests do not return for a while but when they do, I will be ready for another match in the ring, ready to knock them out. The only "what if" currently welcomed to hunker down in my head is the one who shouts "what if you don't follow your dreams!?!"

It's almost impossible to peel away from Santa Fe. The sights and colors here connect me to the earth with every breath I take. There is a level of spirituality that is piqued here, as if the soul transcends to new heights and intentions by the way of the land. One can't help but feel closer to God here. The stunning landscapes are a constant reminder of the universe's ominous power and how small we are in the grand scheme of things. Yet I was constantly propelled to ponder on my own big purpose in this realm and how to progress it into a more meaningful one. At 7,500 feet high this capital in "The Land of Enchantment" will literally take your breath away. For some, this shortness of breath will be due to the height of the city and for others the shallow breathing and fastening heartbeats will arise from the overwhelming beauty that awaits at every turn. Luckily, none of us got struck with altitude sickness. I attribute this avoidance to driving over, allowing our bodies to slowly acclimate to the increasing altitudes. On a daily basis we were mesmerized by art galleries, outdoor sculptures, chili peppers, adobe homes, friendly faces and a consistent perfectly blue sky, all surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Calling Santa Fe picturesque would be a disservice. Enchanting is totally acceptable. Santa Fe Plaza The Plaza, known as the heart of the city, is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Santa Fe. The Plaza, as it did four hundred years ago, hosts Spanish and Native American markets with artisans showcasing their handmade crafts. Unlike other cities, like NYC, where there is often a divide between Latinos and Whites, Santa Fe authentically embeds Spanish and Native American cultures and traditions into its' every being from architecture to food and everything in between. The embracing of the cultures is part of what gives this city so much flavor and beauty. You can get lost strolling around for hours in The Plaza's many stores, restaurants, and galleries. The Rainbow Man While The Plaza has an infinite variety of note worthy galleries and shops that are strikingly beautiful, The Rainbow Man's store especially caught my eye. From the moment I entered this space, my mind wandered into imaginative desires of redecorating our home back in New York City. Everything is thoughtfully laid out from start to finish. The large, colorful courtyard is the highlight of the space. We spent quite some time out there admiring the selection. I couldn't resist buying something to ship back home but unfortunately the shipping was outrageously priced and the salesperson made it a point to mention that they don't cover any damage in transition. Bummer. This was the first place on our entire road trip that made me want to actually buy something and spend money on materialistic goods. For our accommodations, we rented Hacienda Rose through the Two Casitas rental agency. We couldn't be happier in this bright, well-stocked, stone throw away from Canyon Road, adobe home. Every day I noticed a new detail that added to the charm and comfort of this beautiful home. No corner was overlooked with authentic Santa Fe touches. Our middle child loved having his own, private casita a few steps away from the main house. During these two weeks he lived like a little bachelor with his own bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and even a private courtyard. As a middle child he rarely gets privacy so this was the ultimate experience for him. We were absolutely in love with the neighborhood and have had serious discussions about relocating here. There is a bit more research to do about what daily life is like here for locals, and still a lot to experience on our road trip, but Santa Fe has us contemplating a completely new life filled with nature, art, amazing food, gorgeous adobe homes, interesting people and an overall slower and more simplistic lifestyle. Canyon Road Santa Fe has the highest concentration of artists and Ph.D.'s. Almost 40% of its' economy is derived from culture and the arts. These statistics are obvious as you walk down Canyon Road, a small stretch jam packed with galleries that showcase talent for all to admire along sidewalks and outdoor patios. You'll never get bored roaming this road. We walked it as a family, I walked it with my children, I walked it with my daughter, I walked it with my son, I walked it alone. Each walk brought a new discovery and a higher level of creative inspiration. Galleries The interior spaces of the galleries are beyond captivating. They are filled with vibrant collections of mostly local artists and are staffed by the warmest and most informative art collectors who were not thrown off by three young kids entering their space. In fact, they welcomed our children and engaged them with conversation and insights. Below are shots from GiacobbeFritz, Santa Klim, and Winterowd Fine Art, some of my favorite galleries on Canyon Road. Santa Fe Railyard Every Tuesday and Saturday morning the Santa Fe Railyard transforms into a farmers market with farmers showcasing their harvests. Rows of tables are filled with produce, baked goods and fresh flowers in this developing neighborhood that will soon be filled with shops and restaurants. There is a small movie theater in place and a great coffee shop, Sky Coffee, that is also up and running. This neighborhood will soon be one of Santa Fe's trendiest zip codes. Nature/Outdoor Activities Aspen Trail 10,000 feet high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains lies the Aspen Trail in the Santa Fe National Forest. Just once a year, in autumn, the Aspen Tree turns the brightest yellows and golds lighting up the mountains and never ending vistas. There are many trails here, some as long as eleven miles. We hiked for three miles and enjoyed breathtaking views, small creeks, and lookout points with Santa Fe in our field of vision, just 20 minutes away and 2,500 feet below us. Bandelier National Monument This national park does a wonderful job preserving hundreds of acres of land where the Pueblo people lived 600 years ago. Tucked into the Frijoles Canyons are several trails available for all levels. We opted for the 1.5 mile Pueblo Trail and added on the additional half mile to the Alcove Trail, totaling four miles. We mostly loved the engaging and interactive nature of this park. Visitors are able to climb ladders into "cavates", small hole like shelters dug into the side of the mountains, to get a small glimpse of what daily life was life for the Native Americans who called this area home. A highlight was ascending 140 feet via four sets of extremely steep ladders that ultimately lead to "The Alcove", once used as a ceremonial hall. I was especially proud of myself for conquering my fear of heights as I climbed these tall ladders. This hike is not only extremely educational but we found it to be thoroughly exhilarating as well. Abiquiu Lake Just over an hour drive from the city, lies a heavenly oasis smack in the middle of the New Mexico desert. The water is strikingly green with the most gorgeous backdrop of mountains and canyons surrounding the lake. We spent a solid forty-five minutes here just admiring this beautiful gift nature left for us to enjoy. Hyde Memorial State Park I was so proud of our kiddos for completing this four mile hike loaded with 855 feet of ascension. The Borrego-Bear Wallow-Winsor Triangle Trail is definitely not for beginners but the rewards are plentiful for all that are willing to push through. The terrain is a constant change of gorgeous scenery and hiking challenges with Little Tesuque Creek hugging along the paths and several narrow trails which will suddenly remind you of how high you are climbing. Dale Ball Trails The trails around Santa Fe never get repetitive, each offering a unique terrain and vantage point. We opted for the three mile trail enjoying the clay dirt shuffling beneath our feet while surrounded by cacti and stunning views of Santa Fe and the endless mountains in its' horizons. I was surprised to see signs that black bears live in the area. Those who know me know that bears are one of my biggest fears and that I stay away from anywhere they may roam. Oddly, I felt unaffected knowing they were lurking somewhere nearby. The soothing ways of Santa Fe worked its magic once again. Daily Walks Something about the crisp morning air and natural surroundings of Santa Fe got me up and active again. Each morning I took a 3.5 mile walk soaking in the attractive sights around me. I often got lost as I took many detours following the roads that called to me. Thank goodness for GPS! Restaurants Following my walks I'd head over to The Tea House for a caffeine fix and some solitude by a nearby stream. This is a great, local café with a cute patio, great service and extensive menu. It's also a wonderful spot to take the kids for a treat and some one-on-one bonding time. Their Italian iced chocolate drink is to die for and the chocolate chip cookies are as large as your face, perfect for sharing! Other perks of this local favorite are the galleries you pass leading you to the host stand. There is always an artist, with his guitar, painting away blissfully right next door. The food scene in Santa Fe is unbelievable. In our neighborhood alone there are dozens of well reviewed restaurants, many of which are run by award winning chefs. Every type of cuisine is available in this city but the typical Santa Fe cuisine is Mexican inspired and doused with chili peppers - just the way I love it! Pink Adobe This restaurant was recently voted as second best in Sant Fe. Boasting a spacious patio in the converted 350 year old adobe house, this is a great spot for authentic Santa Fe cuisine. Clafoutis I am not quite sure how it took us a week to discover this bakery but once we did, we were hooked. The boulangerie is straight out of France with every patisserie you could ever dream of. Their lattes are perfect and their baked goods are heavenly. The French speaking staff adds to the charm and authenticity of this neighborhood favorite. I began each morning with a flaky, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth pain au chocolat and a creamy latte. Oh how I will miss this place. El Farol El Farol is a delicious tapas restaurant on Canyon Road serving a variety of dishes with a Spanish twist. We opted for cheese croquettes, grilled artichoke, cauliflower bites, brussel sprouts, patatas bravas, vegetable paella and a grilled chicken dish. We devoured each and every bite, ordering some of the dishes for a second round. They have plenty of heaters for patio diners. The service is impeccable. The owner even stopped by to thank us for dining at his establishment. Gabriel's Zagat considers Gabriel's as one of the best restaurants in America. From the moment we made the drive over, we knew something special was awaiting. This delectable, authentic Southwestern restaurant is a twenty minute drive from Santa Fe and took us through the most beautiful mountain views along the way that definitely piqued our appetites. The drive is a highlight in itself. Then we took our first bite, and the oohing and aahing began. Our son kept asking for a second visit here. The Shed I added this establishment to our list as soon as I read that they serve the second best burrito in the country (who holds title for number one?). This busy restaurant has a great outdoor space and a wonderful menu selection. Of course, I ordered their infamous green chili burrito and can vouch that it is worthy of its' grand title. Stuffed with pinto beans and grilled onions and drenched in homemade green chili sauce, this monster sized burrito has earned it's accolades. Santa Fe is truly a city that has everything you can ever ask for. It's population of roughly 85,000 people is a diverse one which mostly celebrates a lifestyle that is rich in culture and diversity, love of the outdoors, appreciation of a slower pace and a love for natural aesthetics that are woven into daily life. The age demographics tend to lean towards the older, post-retiree group with fewer families than other cities. Surprisingly, Santa Fe is also considered one of the most dangerous cities in the USA and noted as safer than only 6% of other US cities. I spoke to locals about this and they confirmed that while there is a lot of crime, it does not exist in the main hub or nearby beautiful "burbs" in the mountainous outskirts. It is hard to believe that somewhere outside this utopic haven exists a crime-ridden world. Our second time here and I have fallen even more deeply and madly in love with this special place in our magical country. Something tells me that we will be here again. See you later Santa Fe.

My husband and I have lived in NYC for the past twenty-two years. Our three kids, now 14, 12 and 10, were born and raised in the city. They all attend public schools.  When the pandemic hit, like many others, we began to question whether we'd like to continue living in Manhattan. Personally, we are extremely disappointed with the way the mayor is running his town and did not want to stay in the city while a hotel was converted into a homeless shelter right next door and crime was soaring through the roof. We couldn't think of where we'd like to go but we knew we had to step away for a while. The Hamptons seemed so cliché. When remote schooling was confirmed to be an option we decided to pack up our things and take an indefinite road trip through the USA in hopes of giving our children a strong lesson in patriotism, knowing they would fall in love with our beautiful country. Most importantly, we decided to maximize our time by making some wonderful memories. We have been on the road for two and a half months now. We have hit Hilton Head, Charleston, Kiawah Island, St. Simons Island, Asheville, Smoky Mountains, Nashville, Memphis, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Marfa, and Santa Fe (to name a few). Our plan is to continue heading west. We've witnessed firsthand how other cities are dealing with the pandemic. While some cities like Memphis are clearly suffering, others like Austin seem to be thriving. We also quickly learned that the media is feeding incorrect messages to its' viewers and readers. "Blue states" do not all wear masks and "red states" are not all unmasked. In fact, Asheville, a "blue city", was the biggest violator of unmasking with large scenes of unmasked crowds in downtown not practicing social distancing guidelines. Yet most towns in "red" Texas wore their masks dutifully. Our kids are also learning that they hold onto many false assumptions based on what they hear, read and learn. When we arrived in Texas, our oldest son expressed that he expected everyone to be walking around armed. They are also realizing that people in mostly Republican leaning states are actually nice, "normal" people. Seeing banners supporting Trump in front of homes and businesses no longer makes them feel uncomfortable. They are no longer freaked out by Republicans and are beginning to have more conservative viewpoints. My husband and I quickly understood that all these years we have wrongly boasted about how incredibly diverse their upbringing in NYC has been. While they have been exposed to a diversity of cultures, ethnicities and sexual orientations they have also been shielded from diversity of political thinking and values. Through their teachers and friends a not-so-subtle, deep rooted bias against Republicans and Trump supporters was brewing. It honestly hasn't been so difficult moving through the different states and their varying political points of view. We have been respectful of other people's political perspectives and they have been respectful of ours. How can we be rioting for equality when we can't genuinely accept others for who they are regardless of color, sex, and political preferences? The latest color war is now blue vs red. We even have purples. Can’t we stop pinning people against one another based on color? Being on the road has been quite a journey. Our plan is to safely travel as long as school remains remote, until crime rates go down back home or until we absolutely fall in love with another place enough to relocate to. As of now, NYC is still our favorite place to call home - or at least NYC pre-pandemic. Further fueling the fire, De Blasio just approved plans for the Radisson Hotel in FiDi, our home, to be converted into a shelter for men with criminal backgrounds. Can our mayor please come out of his coma so we can come home soon? When we return, we hope we come back to a safer city and a more tolerant one. During the election we'd like to find a cave somewhere in the desert that is wired with Netflix and WiFi. We are purposefully planning to avoid any big cities when the new President is elected. Sadly, it seems like too many large cities have succumbed to chaos, riots and intolerance as they claim to hide behind a move towards equality. The best way to really love and accept others is by getting out there and interacting with them (masked and distanced of course!). Take a weekend trip to a city that is opposite of your own political stance and talk to the locals. Really listen to them and consider that they have their best intentions to be good human beings and the best citizens they can be. There can be different ways to arrive at similar solutions. Mostly, a USA that is strong, united, proud and healing. For now, my family is focused on learning how to take a deep breath, shutting off the news when the sensationalism begins, listening and learning from others and sanitizing the heck out of everything we touch. We are cherishing this epic journey and all the lessons that come with the breathtaking landscapes, foods and people we encounter. What comes next, we just don't know. We'll just sit tight and hope the color wars will end soon and that we can all begin to live a life where the only colors we see are the ones that abound in nature. After three months on the road, totally immersed in the outdoors, I am beginning to wonder if people got out more to obtain their fix of nature-gifted colors, perhaps they wouldn't be so fixated on the abstract and artificial colors they have created for themselves.

Earlier this week a family friend suddenly passed away. I have known her and her family since I was a child. Let me tell you, this family has suffered all along. Like Kennedy curse style. When I was in seventh grade her brother, a very good looking and popular ninth grader, committed suicide while my parents were socializing in his home with his parents. You can imagine the trauma that ensued for everyone involved, especially his younger sister who adored her big brother. This scarred her for life. I remember speaking with her years later and she shared how this huge loss affected her in the worst ways. Not so long ago, her father, my father's best friend, died of heart surgery complications. His death completely devastated her and ripped her soul apart. Her daddy was her everything. This loss sparked a love affair with prescription meds to help battle her depression, anxiety and to numb a whole menu of expected emotions when losing the two men she has loved most in life. A few years after, and simply unfathomable, her husband died of cancer. This beautiful woman, a mother of three, had no chance of recovering from a broken heart that life just wanted to shatter into unrepairable pieces. She struggled for years, pain gripping at her every move and thought. Unfortunately, she heavily relied on meds just to get through the daily tasks that life demands of all of us, but are too difficult for someone whose world has been turned upside down. Her brother, her father, her husband - all dead before she even turned forty. Three mornings ago her daughter found her in bed unresponsive. No one knows why. Did she overdose? Did she commit suicide? Did she have a heart attack from the frequent drug usage? Everyone is speculating, but does it really matter how she died? She died of a broken heart and that is crystal clear. I was privy to some recent texts she wrote to a mutual friend just a couple of months ago. The texts were clearly a cry for help expressing pain, difficulty pulling it together, feelings of loneliness and despair. In retrospect, my friend feels horrible that she did not read in between the lines. She dutifully responded with loving texts encouraging her to be strong and sending loving words her way. But was she really listening to the cries of despair? Are we really listening or are we always acting with good intentions while fulfilling our responsibilities with the minimal efforts required to our friends and people in our community? What good does it do to cry and regret how we handle things in retrospect? It does nothing. All around me, I too see people in my life approaching me with minimal dutiful efforts to maintain our friendship. So many texts, so few calls. So much talking about their own lives, so few asking about mine. Luckily I am of fairly sound mind and solid mental health and can survive the hypocrisy, bullshit and selfishness that exudes through the pores of so many that I personally know. I can handle it. I also know that anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I pick up the phone and call others, I truly listen with interest about the lives of others, I open up my home to strangers and friends, I show up when someone needs a friend, I celebrate my friends' milestones with love and happiness. I have no regrets about the type of friend I am or have ever been. Am I perfect? Absolutely not. I know that the Leo in me comes across too strong and that along with my zodiac sign comes a lack of tact. I am working on all my flaws. But what if I wasn't mentally sound? What if I was dealing with real deep issues? How would I survive if no one would listen? If no one would call? If no one would stop by for a cup of coffee? I often think of what would happen to me if my husband dies before me. I would be completely unable to function. I, like my childhood friend, would wither into nothingness while all my friends texted me loving thoughts and told me about their busy weekends. Are we really listening? Let's make a pact. From now on, when we ask the mundane question of "how are you?" let's really listen for a response and to the response. It's so obvious we are full of shit when we skirt over the question or end up talking about ourselves. My heart is aching for my deceased friend's mother. She lost her son, her (ex) husband, and now her daughter. Her entire family wiped away. She will now be the primary caretaker of three children who are left with no parents. I haven't spoken to her since her (ex) husband died, about six years ago or so. I haven't texted her yet to send her my condolences. You better believe that I will pick up the phone and call her, as soon as my tears don't continuously erupt so that I can support her with strength and not be a sobbing mess, and I will absolutely let her do all the talking.

This art mecca is one of my favorite road trip stops yet. Knowing that we are part of a very small group of people that are lucky enough to visit this city makes the experience all the better. Situated more than two hundred miles from civilization, Marfa is an art packed oasis with delicious restaurants, art installations, beautiful architecture, a young crowd and more than twenty art galleries that appeal to all art lovers. Creative freedom oozes through the streets and is easily noted by the unique shops and restaurants that line the small town. When planning your vacation here, note that most restaurants and sites are mostly open only on Fridays and Saturdays. This is a weekend destination. Marfa's hard to reach location sanctifies the pilgrimage; what awaits you is truly remarkable. Considering the town's small size there are many lodging options available here to accommodate the growing tourist population. We opted for the Saint George Hotel, originally built in 1886 and recently renovated into a ultra modern boutique hotel. This hip hotel is centrally located offering a Brooklyn vibe, a great pool scene and a delicious restaurant. We appreciated the complimentary alcohol wipes left in each room, the strict mask wearing rules and the ample hand sanitation dispensers throughout the property. We also loved eavesdropping on the friendly hotel guests and listening to their trekking stories. Marfa unites a pretty interesting group of people, mostly from Texas but definitely others who make the journey from a far greater distance. The Chinati Foundation Contemporary artist, Donald Judd, put Marfa on the map when he built this art museum in 1986. In 1978 the artist purchased a sprawling 340 acres of land that once housed Fort D.A. Russell, a former military site. He spent the next eleven years pouring his heart into refurbishing the army barracks and halls for artistic usage while also building his infamous fifteen untitled concrete pieces that took over four years to complete. The mathematical precision of these structures yield to an overwhelmingly breathtaking path of installations that are perfectly situated to transform with the sun's every move. This is one of Marfa's biggest attractions. Tickets must be purchased in advanced and are very limited as self-guided tours are only available Thursday- Saturday from 8:00am-11:00am. The property is 1.6 miles long allowing visitors to relish the exhibit in it's natural desert setting, surrounded by peeking mountains along the horizon. Add this to your bucket list. Prada, Valentine TX If you blink, you may miss this iconic structure that stands in complete isolation twenty-six miles outside of Marfa. You'll know you are approaching when you pass through the teeniest, tiniest town you'll likely ever see in Valentine, TX. James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor will greet you as you make your approach. Pull over to say hello, get out of the car, and get the full aspect of this engaging installation that incorporates sights and sound while brightening up the desert landscape with its' brilliant colors. Back to Prada, it's hard not to love the creative irony in building a Prada shop in the middle of nowhere. Of course, this is not a fully operating store. The doors are sealed and unsupervised, no real shopping takes place but the eye candy is gloriously humorous. As you roam the main hub of town expect to find eclectic and attractive shops like Esperanza Vintage & Art. They had two racks filled with really cute vintage clothing for under $20! I personally loved the aesthetics of this shop. I was totally tempted to buy a pair of boots. Oddly enough, I have done zero shopping on this road trip. Two and half months on the road, exploring the cutest shops with such unique inventory and yet I have not been tempted even once to buy a thing. I wonder if I will ever go back to my shopaholic tendencies? The most simplistic backdrops become stunningly beautiful in Marfa's exceptional lighting. The skies here are such a sharp blue during the day and transform into lavender in the evening. I could have easily stayed an extra two nights trying to capture the ways the sun sprinkles her magic at all hours of the day. Restaurants Surprisingly, Marfa offers many dining options for the town's size and they all delivered consistently great meals. We had the best burritos ever at Marfa's Burritos. The tortillas were so fresh and all the ingredients stuffed inside the warm shell just melted in our mouths as they fell apart in our hands. I couldn't get the tantalizing flavor out of my mouth and longed for more as soon as we left. Sadly, they are closed on Sundays so we couldn't get a second fix in. I would trek back to Marfa just for another meal here! Their walls are filled with pictures of celebrities like Mark Ruffalo, Anthony Bourdain, and Matthew McConaughey who have shared this unforgettable dining experience with us. Seriously, it's worth visiting Marfa for these burritos alone! The Water Stop Delicious food, fresh ingredients and an adorable patio await you at this popular restaurant. I especially loved my quinoa and rice bowl packed with pickled veggies and nuts. Their cold brew is extremely memorable as well. Frama Frama serves super hot brewed coffee, just the way I like it! They also serve ice cream. Clearly, we stopped by more than once. We appreciated their online ordering method and option to pay your bill via Venmo, pretty cool. Jett's at The Hotel Paisano Hotel Paisano is an institution in Marfa dating back to the 1930s. We wanted to check out the courtyard and hotel lobby and decided to book a reservation at Jett's Grill to get a feel for the hotel. The food was just "ok" but the service and ambiance definitely made up for it. Marfa Mystery Lights Nine miles outside of Marfa lies an observation deck where, if you're one of the lucky few, you will be able to spot the Marfa Mystery Lights that have been observed since the 1830s. Two hundred years later and still no one knows what these lights are, when they will appear or where they are appearing from. We went in skeptically, knowing that our chances of spotting the lights were low. Not only did we witness shooting stars and a sky glistening with stars, we also spotted the lights! Yeah baby! All five of us observed what appeared to be a spinning circular aircraft hovering in the air for a few moments and then voosh, it just vanished! A few moments later three red lights appeared taking turns flashing their lights. The middle picture below shows the sky over us on this remarkable evening, through an app we use (sky safari) that names the stars, constellations and planets when you line up your phone camera with the sky. My son, asked an interesting question during the extraterrestrial experience. He wondered if human beings on earth can return as aliens on another planet in their after life. Well... I don't see why not! The voyage of getting to Marfa, now drawing over 45,000 tourists each year, is part of the thrill and experience of the town. Its unbelievable to see what has grown in the middle of the desert due to one man's artistic vision. When we headed over to the hotel pool one afternoon my children commented on how they were the only kids there. I reminded them that since they were toddlers they were usually the only kids at many of the destinations we brought them along on. I am so grateful that not only did I get to experience this mystical town in the desert, but I was able to enjoy the journey with my kids who are likely never going to forget this unforgettable town, its' aliens, art and amazing burritos.

Austin is ranked as the number one best place to live in the USA. We were extremely curious to check out the city that so many are flocking to. I spent time in Austin a few years ago for SXSW. I must admit the city didn't resonate with me then and although we loved vacationing here, I still don't get the appeal of moving here the second time around either. Our home base in Austin was in the outskirts, an hour outside of "Austin proper" on a lake called Lake Travis. After a couple of weeks of moving around a lot this was a perfect spot for us to settle down in a serene setting. The Point Venture part of the lake is quiet and secluded and we happily gave in to our surrounding by spending most of our time in the lake or in the house enjoying the lake views and gorgeous sunsets. There is a bar/restaurant one mile away at the marina but we turned around as soon as we arrived because it was very crowded and everyone was unmasked. Otherwise, there really isn't much to do here. The nearest grocery store is a thirty minute drive and Starbucks is fifteen minutes away. For those looking for a true retreat on a pristine lake, Lake Travis is a wonderful choice. This is not a place for people who want a coffee shop around the corner, Instacart delivery or a plethora of great restaurants nearby. Enjoying spectacular sunsets every evening was a true treat. The weather was perfect for our entire stay except for a bout of three consecutive rainy days. Clear and sunny skies, a warm lake and the fluffiest white clouds I have ever seen. Pure bliss. We rented a house called "The Santana" on Airbnb. The owner, Flip, was super responsive to all our questions and needs. The home is brand new with the scent of fresh paint still lingering. We chose this home for it's modern touches, high tech wiring, spacious living and most of all the breathtaking views. If you're ok with being in the boondocks, I highly recommend staying here. There are plenty of ways to connect with nature around Austin. I would imagine that the accessibility to many trails, lakes, springs and water falls are one of the main appeals to living here. However, the main hub of the city just doesn't jive with me. It's hard to explain, but everyone just seems to be on a different frequency. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, it just is (at least in my experience). There is a sprinkle of an arrogant, hipster mentality that I just don't connect with. One thing I really did admire about the city though is the permeance of mom and pop shops throughout. There are many creative stores, styled in quirky decor that offer an abundance of unique and interesting items. A strong element of creativity is definitely appreciated and nurtured here. Overall Austinites comply with Covid guidelines pretty well. Very few people did not wear their masks, most notably on the trendy and popular S. Congress Street. It is also the most bustling city we have visited during the pandemic. Our friends who live here noted that it feels much quieter than pre-Covid but compared to other cities we visited, Austin seems pretty full and vibrant to us. The folks here love their tacos and coffee. There are coffee shops and tacos everywhere you turn. We stopped at Quickie Pick for a coffee and got a chuckle out of this bodega style one stop shop where you can pick up toilet paper, tacos, coffee and wine all in one place! East Austin surrounds the University of Texas, home to a whopping 50,000 students. We drove through the campus and admired how tucked in and contained it was. There is some beautifully preserved architecture there as well. The main drag called "The Drag" reminded us of Miami's art deco vibe. Zilker Park was a nice stop as well. It was filled with people and their dogs having picnics, playing frisbee and volleyball, and just enjoying a beautiful afternoon. We met a friend at the park who we haven't seen in thirteen years! This was a great location to meet and catch up with lots of space to social distance (although I have to say, I'm having a hard time hearing people these days with all the space between us!). The Umlauf Sculpture Garden is well worth a visit. This picturesque garden is filled with dozens of bronze and stone pieces, many of which are very moving. It's a sweet little oasis in the city and a great place to get lost in your thoughts and in the art pieces themselves. The homeless population has gotten pretty bad in Austin. Our friends complained about the mayor's decision to allow the homeless to pitch tents throughout downtown. They were mainly in clusters in specific spots, like under highways, but many were also dotted along a popular waterfront promenade. Other than this sticky situation, downtown was pretty well maintained and also the least trafficked area in the city. The food in Austin is fairly good and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. However, the service is lacking. Everyone seems stuck in some sort of robotic trance complying to COVID laws which have stripped them of normal human interactions and behaviors. For example, we were excited to have coffee and pastries at Hillside Farmacy. Their signage literally says "coffee and pastries" yet when we asked which kinds of pastries they have they said "we don't serve pastries". Hmmmm. We also disliked their "minimal contact" ordering plan. We had to download an app that wouldn't let us order basic things like hot chocolate or a glass of milk. We had to get up, go inside, and ask how to place the order. We were told to order a coffee on the app and come back in to give them a heads up that we'd like hot chocolate instead. We were slowly getting more annoyed. Instead of pastries I opted for the biscuits and wanted jam and butter along with them. There was no way to request this in the app either. This is a full service restaurant, I just wanted a server to speak to but no one was willing to help. When the hostess walked by we told her we were having a hard time ordering and she looked at us blankly and said "this is our minimal contact way of ordering things". Minimal contact led to minimal customer service so we got up and left. Too bad, they had a cute patio with yellow umbrellas (my favorite color) but their service sucked. For brunch we headed over to Better Half Coffee & Cocktails. They have the largest outdoor patio we have ever been to, a really terrific outdoor space! Service was again a little bland. I can't put my finger on it but everyone we interacted with in Austin just seems to have their head up their ass. Luckily the food was satisfying and left us ready to explore more of the city. Tiny Pies has the most delicious mini pies EVER! We picked up a banana cream pie, coconut cream pie, chocolate cream pie, turtle pecan pie and Texas two step pie to go. As soon as I took a bite I regretted not stocking up on these. As mentioned, the outskirts are beautiful so locals have an easy reprieve from city life when needed. From my understanding, Austin folks tend to gravitate to the bountiful nature around them as much as possible. After dealing with the less smiley crowd in the hub we were thrilled to encounter friendly deer back by the lake. Deer are as common as birds on Lake Travis. We easily spotted dozens of these beauties every day. Overall, Austin has character, personality and its' own unique charm. Although locals think otherwise, the pandemic didn't seem to affect them as much as other cities we have visited. It is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and terrain making outdoor trips easily accessible and they are readily embedded into daily routines. The culture is not one I personally connect with. If I had to be brutally honest and blunt I'd say the people here just don't seem happy. We were really rooting for Austin too! Second time around and it just didn't click. That's ok though. There is no judgement. Clearly many have had a totally different experience and have fallen in love with this city. If anything, this is a lesson on how different we all are and how our past experiences shape our current ones ensuring that it is impossible for everyone to have similar perspectives. We don't all have to have the same opinions and we certainly won't. Sometimes we just have to agree to disagree. We certainly won't have any opinions with strong foundations if we don't get out an explore the world or conversate with people from different states and countries. So, that's a second lesson here, get out and discover your own feelings towards other places by visiting them or by listening really well to people who come from other places. Don't assume that because others rave and love a place that you automatically will too. Allow yourself to have a different point of view and don't get upset with those who don't agree with that perspective. I'm really learning to embrace differences rather than striving to find similarities. We have been surprised a multitude of times by how we thought we would feel about a city versus how we ended up feeling about it when experiencing it ourselves. Sometimes we just need to getaway, connect with nature and allow ourselves to think a bit to come to new realizations.