Search Results

I hate to admit it but our weekend in La La Land was La La Lackluster. The city, in my eyes, is a stark reminder of everything that is wrong with our country. We arrived just as Biden was declared president-elect and the celebrations erupted into the streets and sidewalks. Watching those who were rejoicing yelling at peaceful Trump supporters and even flashing their middle fingers way too generously at the Trump car processions really bothered me. Biden won. Isn't that wonderful for our country? His supporters should be happy yet even in moments of glory many resorted to expressing their disdain vehemently. Why is the divisiveness continuing to be spread and by the victorious albeit? I expected the Trump supporters to be the ones showing aggression as the "losers". Instead, from what I witnessed first-hand it seems like some Biden loyalists won't stop the harassments until any point of views not in line with their own come to an immediate halt. Can we please respect everyone's right to their own opinion? I'm not sure this code of conduct is one that is valued in this city (or many other cities in this country for that matter). When we walked around a recently depressed Third Street Promenade we almost didn't recognize it. Practically every store is boarded up with plywood in anticipation of riots and protests that were expected around election day. In contrast to our previous visits in the past, this once bustling shopping and dining center in Santa Monica was barren. The people that were honking their cars victoriously for our newly elected President are often thought to be the same ones who participated in the riots and looting that occurred post George Floyd's unjustified death. It is their very behavior of fear implementation tactics that caused Los Angeles to be boarded up once again." Follow our lead or face our wrath", their threats loom everywhere here and the boards stay up to remind us of the consequences of having differing opinions. When we drove to Venice, excited to walk around and enjoy the beach vibes with the kids, we quickly left the neighborhood without ever leaving our car. The entire boardwalk is lined with tents presumably housing the homeless population. This is a problem in the city that has gotten out of control causing it to be unenjoyable to explore many areas. Witnessing a beautiful city's slow demise is painful to watch. Perhaps it reminded me too much of what is happening back home in NYC. Mark my words, like the residents in the Upper West Side of Manhattan who have been loyal social justice advocates who later banned together to disband a homeless shelter that threatened the safety of their community, the folks of Los Angeles will soon be regretting their active participation in the destruction of a once lovely city. Oh, and the traffic here is unbearable. We also happened to arrive on the two windiest days in the city's history making walking around very uncomfortable. We received our first parking ticket since being on the road and overall, simply put had our first terrible day in the last four months. The infamous Californian Vibe skipped over the City of Angels when we arrived. While we are quite happy to put LA behind us and move forward with our next adventures, we did enjoy some great meals and a nice morning by the pier. Another highlight was meeting with old friends who moved out here and catching up over drinks. Santa Monica Pier Although the amusement park was closed due to the pandemic, the pier was open for a nice stroll. Only a handful of others dared to brace the wind's wrath on the morning of our visit. It was quite beautiful to watch the waves crashing while the mountains in the backdrop stood motionless. Third Street Promenade We visited this outdoor promenade a few times each day because of its close proximity to our hotel. As I mentioned earlier, the ever dominating boarded up storefronts were just a depressing reality of the "new normal" some cities have wrongly accepted. In reality, they boarded up in anticipation of anti-Trump protestors should the President have won presidency again. To me, this is a staunch reminder, via wooden walls, of where our democracy is heading. There is only one side that can be adhered to or else a tone of aggression, cancellation and destruction looms as a reminder of what will lie ahead to all traitors of this forced upon mainstream ideology. For better visuals of how this neighborhood has been affected, please see my Los Angeles "stories" on Instagram. Below are the best pictures I could gather. Beverly Hills Similarly, Beverly Hills is boarded up as well. Chanel, Barneys and every other store you can name have all put up their shields in fear of being raided and violated again. Rodeo Drive was entirely closed off. Heart breaking. We just drove through and never bothered getting out of our car in a neighborhood I once loved to stroll through and grab a yummy bite while people watching. Hollywood We got a $68 ticket for parking in an unclearly marked parking space for a fifteen minute walk down the Walk of Fame. This was more than enough time to walk by some seedy characters and crowds of tourists. I don't think we walked more than two blocks before we all wanted to turn back to our car and get off the strip. As we left the area in search of a great viewing spot of the iconic Hollywood sign, we almost got into a car accident. Things were really not working in our favor here. Just when we couldn't be more annoyed, a rainbow magically appeared. This was our second rainbow sighting of the day! We were greeted by one on the way out of Palm Springs and again in Hollywood. I was mesmerized by the rainbow which sucked me into recalibrating the energy of the day and the bad perspective I was holding on to. Just as I was starting to relax, a giant monster truck pulled up near us and honked so loud I nearly flew out the window. That set me off into tears. Gosh Los Angeles and I just didn't get along. The Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach Perhaps our experience of Los Angeles was destined to be ruined and if so, my first clue should have been when we checked in to this hotel. The hotel is very well reviewed, in a great location just one block from the beach and two blocks from Third Street Promenade, with a trendy restaurant that requires a bouncer on the weekends and tastefully decorated rooms. Yet, upon arrival I was asked to sign a three page Covid waiver releasing the hotel of any liability if we were to get sick at the property. What a warm welcome! We have been on the road for four months and have stayed in several hotels in several cities and not one has asked us to sign such a ridiculous contract. We were then told that our rooms were ready and available for an early check in at a rate of $50 per room. Isn't early check in usually a courtesy? Finally, when my husband and I went down to the bar to pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy in our room we were told that due to Covid we can no longer order wine from the bar and that we'd need to order it through room service. Um, doesn't adding another person to the mix of who contacts our bottle increase the chance of the virus spreading? No thanks. We are just operating on a completely different frequency than everyone here. Pacific Palisades This was one neighborhood that wasn't boarded up that we found truly enjoyable to be in. We loved driving around the area to house gaze and stroll in the town's upscale village. On Sundays they host a large farmer's market filled with local goodies. There are various retail shops for all shopping desires as well as a delicious chocolate shop, Sees Candy, which we of course checked out. Things were finally looking sweeter. One thing Los Angeles is still getting right is their culinary scene. We had some fantastic meals here and the service staff was consistently friendly, warm and attentive. During Covid, indoor dining is not allowed anywhere so restaurants have spilled on to sidewalks in order to accommodate their diners. Misfits Located in the Third Street Promenade this lively restaurant offers a delicious menu in a fun environment. The bar concocts great cocktails and a funky mix of music blasts to please its young crowd. We ordered their donuts which ooze with jelly and are paired with a delicious white chocolate caramel sauce for dipping desires, the best string fries you could hope for, a yummy gluten-free macaroni and cheese, perfectly crispy brussels sprouts, a fried chicken sandwich loaded with toppings, a juicy burger that yielded many groans, a falafel salad filled with flavor and a breakfast burrito that is hard to compete with. This was a meal for the books. Art Table Also in Santa Monica, Art Table serves fresh, local American fare in a creatively converted outdoor space that spills on to former street side parking spots. I really love the clever way they incorporated the parking meters into their new outdoor space and how they added turf to the curb they fenced in creating a garden feeling. We munched on their fried calamari, loaded Mexican corn, avocado toast, lamb burger and coconut curry halibut. Everything was solid and very satisfactory. The Penthouse Restaurant We enjoyed a lovely Sunday breakfast at our hotel's restaurant. We loaded up on waffles, granola, berries, chocolate croissants, omelets and chilaquiles which were well appreciated in their newly converted outdoor patio space. I wish they had a proper espresso machine in their not-so-temporary Covid space. Drip coffee only. A Votre Sante After driving through Brentwood to scope out some of the homes of the kids' favorite celebrities (like Jim Carey and Lebron James) we headed over to this neighborhood joint loved by locals. A Votre Sante offers an adorable outdoor patio and a delicious, healthy menu loaded with vegan and vegetarian options. Our nachos which were drenched in vegan cheeses was surprisingly scrumptious, the taco salad filled with veggies like corn and cabbage was equally enjoyable especially with the added flavor of the meatless steak and chili oil, their Beyond Burger is stuffed with sauerkraut, tomatoes, lettuce and avocado, the huevos rancheros and Oaxacan scramble were big hits too. We left the table with happy bellies once again. Locanda Portofino The homemade pasta, along with the other authentic Italian menu offerings, is perfectly prepared at Locanda Portofino We all enjoyed every single bite in their romantic patio. The service staff here is attentive and the atmosphere and pricing aim for a more formal experience. This is a great date night choice. I am still dreaming of my porcini pappardelle drenched in arrabbiata sauce. Our perspective locks in many of the ensuing circumstances in our lives. When we arrived to Los Angeles we were not in the best of spirits for all the reasons already described. As soon as we realized that our negative energy was driving us into a blackhole of obstacles and detriment we made a conscious decision to quickly snap out of it and begin viewing things in a better light. This new outlook truly helped us have a more enjoyable visit considering our lack of connection to the city. Had we not shifted the way we viewed our experience, I have no doubt that more catastrophes would have come our way. In reality, any day that I am alive, healthy and with my family is a great day. Then, throw in a couple of rainbows and its truly a spectacular day. The rest is just background noise which Los Angeles has too much of, resulting in momentarily distracting me from my focus. La La Land, you're not for us but there's a reason twenty million people have made you their home. Take care of those who love you loyally and I will do the same.

I've always dreamt of visiting Palm Springs. We have explored many areas of California in the past but have never made it to this desert oasis. It's even more beautiful than we imagined. I expected sunny skies and lots of palm trees but I didn't know that added to this beauty would be a backdrop of mountains too. We knew we picked a great first stop in California the moment we arrived. Palm Springs exudes the ultimate vacation vibe making it impossible to do anything but kick back, relax and enjoy the California sunshine. Palm Canyon Drive The main drag of Palm Springs lies on Palm Canyon Drive which is a great destination for a leisurely walk through shops, galleries, restaurants and more ice-cream shops than you can ever dream of. When we visited the area on a Sunday it was filled with people, all loyally wearing their masks, enjoying the gorgeous afternoon. Restaurant patios were packed and sidewalks were crowded. Like Los Angeles, the city has a Walk of Stars along the sidewalks honoring those celebrities who have lived in the greater Palm Springs area. The ubiquitous palm trees, combination of Mediterranean and mid-century architecture and sunny skies beckoned us to linger as long as possible. For our lodging we rented the perfect Palm Springs home, Smoketree House, through airbnb. In true Palm Springs form, the house masters mid-century architecture and interior design leaving no detail overlooked from the light switches to the faucet handles. The owners provided the most impeccable service and welcomed us with a large basket stuffed with sweet and salty treats. After check in we cleared our ambitious schedule in the week ahead ensuring that we enjoy the house and pool as much as possible. I wish we booked a longer stay here. Palm Springs leaves you no choice but to surrender to relaxation. After all the running around we have been doing, Smoketree House has been the ideal retreat to succumb to some much needed laziness. Whitewater Preserve Thirty minutes away from downtown Palm Springs you'll find this lovely gem that offers 2,600 miles of paths. You can literally walk to Canada on these trails if you've got a few months of walking in you! Although we love Canada, we opted for a shorter hike on the Whitewater Canyon View Loop to the PCT trail junction. The two mile, round trip hike took us through scenic trails packed with wildflowers, the soothing sound and sight of the Whitewater River, and beautiful views of the San Gorgonio Mountains. The trails were flat, easy to walk and well marked. Using the animal tracking map given to us by the park ranger we were able to spot many animal droppings and tracks (like bear and coyote) which added to the fun. Personally, this was one of my favorite hikes to date. Local Neighborhoods & Architecture: Hopping in the car and driving around Palm Springs admiring the unique architecture and desert landscape is a fun late afternoon activity. Driving around with the music up and windows down letting the Californian breeze hit my face as we scoped out various neighborhoods was a highlight of our week here. Movie Colony This neighborhood was once home to many Hollywood stars. It's a lovely area with mountain vistas and a mix of Spanish Colonial and modernist homes. You'll know you've found it when encountering a plot of land converted into a whimsical sculpture garden celebrating popular movie scenes. Twin Palms Frank Sinatra Estate Sinatra's former desert home is also located in the Movie Colony. Today the home is used as an event space, vacation rental and also offers private guided tours. The legendary singer built this beautiful mid-century home in 1947 after he earned his first million dollars. Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymooned here and then lived in this mid-century, iconic home for a couple of years. We loved it's unique circular shape on a quiet cul-de-sac. We drove up to Leonardo DiCaprio's Palm Spring getaway but were met with a housekeeper's suspicious eyes as she was tending to the house. I tried to snap some pictures but her car was blocking the view and her glare was too intimidating; although we were probably the scary ones driving up slowly to the celebrity's home! Instead, I snapped a picture of a home that I especially loved. The adobe style design, desert landscaping, mountain backdrop and neon lighting really caught my eye. And that front door! 325 East Francis Drive I really love this concrete home and its muted colors combined with the simple desert landscaping allowing the sky to be an everchanging color palette. The homes in Palm Springs are so beautifully simplistic. I am sure it exists somewhere out here but we saw no signs of ostentatious, over the top construction anywhere. Kaufman Desert Home This modernist masterpiece was built in 1946 and is on the market now for $25 million. This home helped shaped the future aesthetics of Palm Springs as the city was in its beginning planning stages. Since it is on private property we were only able to sneak a peek at the steel square shape of this pioneer of Palm Springs desert modern architecture. The entrance is so inviting, what a tease! Below are some other homes that are worth noting as they are examples of original homes that help shape the style of the city. Simply getting in a car and driving around here is a lesson in architecture. I've learned of architects I never knew of beforehand and the ways they helped shaped mid-century home design as well as their overall impact on the aesthetic design of Palm Springs. Tahquitz Canyon The Tahquitz Canyon trail is right outside of the main strip of Palm Springs making for an easy commute to further delve into nature. The $12.50 entrance fee, per person, is the highest price tag we have paid to date for a hike but knowing that the cost supports this beautiful park is worth every penny. The 1.8 mile loop is well marked and leads you through giant boulders that provide shade along the way while exploring this land that continues to remain sacred to the Cahuilla Indians. When we entered, the park rangers warned us that the water fall (normally gushing from a height of 60 feet) was dry with only a small pool remaining, which we already expected from recent online reviews. Regardless, when we arrived to the tiny trickle of the fall we were still able to enjoy another one of nature's masterpieces. The granite formations by the falls are beautifully smooth with various hues of grays and silvers that resemble a scene straight out of a futuristic sci-fi film. On the return loop there are beautiful views of Palm Springs in the valley below along with gigantic boulders sprinkled across the terrain that miraculously hold each other up, barely. Joshua Tree National Park When we drove into California from Las Vegas we had a two hour drive through endless fields of infinite Joshua trees so when we told the kids we were yanking them from pool time to drive an hour into Joshua National Park to see more Joshua trees they were not as enthusiastic as we hoped. After lots of protesting and complaining we made our way over happy we did not cave into their resistance. The park has put together so many breathtaking trails that highlight many aspects of nature beyond the Joshua Trees, which are certainly welcomed accessories. Each tree has its own character and shape, many with limb like branches that feel right out of a Dr. Seuss book. In fact, the kids mentioned The Lorax film a few times as we explored the park. Hidden Valley Trail I highly recommend hiking this easy, one mile loop trail when visiting the national park. The landscape is too picturesque in its perfection, it almost feels artificial. The rock formations are formed out of hundreds of rocks that look like they were thoughtfully sprinkled and stacked throughout the park. Under a beautiful sky in a pristine terrain filled with scattered desert plants really made us feel like we were in a Disney made attraction. This trail is unreal and it will take your eyes a few minutes to adjust to its natural wonders. Cholla Cactus Garden I don't understand why the Cholla cactus is not the star of Joshua Tree National Park. I stumbled upon the Cholla Cactus Garden in my research of the area but it did not pop up often or easily. This less frequented area of the park is truly otherworldly. With the skies casting its blue hues and the Chollas resembling corals, I felt like I was walking on the grounds of a great big sea floating harmoniously through magnificent marine plants. The beauty of these desert natives cannot be described in words. They have the appearance of being fuzzy and smooth but upon closer inspection you'll quickly notice their harrowing spikes. A poor, little chipmunk met his horrible death caught in the deadly spikes of one of the cacti. I thought about this little guy's last moments all evening. My husband got some spike balls stuck in his shoe and it took a large rock and lots of pounding to break them free. These cacti are no joke. Humans need a little lesson in admiring things from afar, you know..."look but don't touch" and this is the ideal setting to practice this discipline. Please add this to your bucket list. Its unforgettable. Indian Canyons There are plenty of hikes to choose from in the Indian Canyons just a few miles outside of town. We selected The Victor Trail which is a moderate, three mile hike with approximately 650 feet of ascension. This hike is not recommended for younger children as it can be quite challenging at times and there are also areas with very narrow trails at high peaks. When researching the trails in the canyon there were many recommendations to follow the paths counter clock wise. When a park ranger also recommended this to us, we decided to start backwards in this order of trails: Fern Trail, Victor Trail, Palm Trail. I can't compare it to the clockwise route that most visitors follow but I can say it was a spectacular route. In these canyons you will find the largest Californian fan palm oasis in the world. These fan palms are colossal and make an immediate impact once you enter their enchanting paths. About an hour later as we reached the peak of the mountain they looked tiny in comparison but equally mesmerizing. Perspective... This hike is adorned with various cacti species, spectacular panoramic mountain views, a small stream and of course, the Californian Palm Tree. This hike gifted us with another memorable day with nature indeed. We will truly miss Palm Springs. The environment it offered us for the week was extremely conducive to relaxing and further connecting with nature. I just felt in my element here. If it didn't get so damn hot in the summer, this is a place I would absolutely consider relocating to. One of the things I will miss most about this special spot are the nightly pink sunsets. An evening didn't go by without a special connection to the skies and clouds that floated through them in a magical display to celebrate the end of each day. I will easily notice the absence of pink, fluffy clouds above my head each evening but I will transfer there memories to my heart where they will be stored for years ahead.

As I was baking this not-so-perfect flag cake yesterday I was caught in some thoughts on the elections and how much tension has been created in our beautiful country around the next presidency. No matter who wins, almost half the population will be disappointed by the outcome. While I have my own personal hopes of who will be elected as the next President of The United States of America, last night I decided to ease some of the tense energy floating around by baking a cake to lighten the mood. Like sage, the scent that emerges from baking rids the air of all its toxins. As I creamed the butter and sugar, it hit me that we the people are the ones who make the biggest impact in our world. If collectively we do not think outside of our own needs and extend a hand to strangers and friends, donate our time and money to important causes, raise our children with strong values of charity, kindness and empathy, and respect our beautiful Planet Earth then does it really matter who wins or loses? We are the leaders. We are the people. We are the future. Regardless of who wins, or loses, our citizens have a lot to work on before any leader can take us to a better and brighter outcome. We have a lot more work to do as Americans than to simply vote and immerse ourselves in non-stop political exchanges. Rather than worrying about who ends up winning this mess of an election, I urge you to take the next few days to consider how you can better serve your family, friends and community. If the majority of us band together to weave selfless acts, random acts of kindness, charity, authenticity, empathy and open-mindedness into our lives then we would be in great shape even if a kangaroo sits in the oval office. Of course whoever wins the presidency will make an impact on our country, but the people, us, can make an even greater impact if we re-shift and recalibrate our energy individually first. We cannot rely on the next President to change the future of our country. We are responsible for this task and before we change our country, we need to rethink how we live our individual lives.

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.