The beauty and awe of experiencing ​Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is something that is truly something that should be on everyones bucket list of experiences. From the largest tree in the world to the breathtaking mountain vista views there is really no other place like it on earth.

We recently returned from an amazing road trip adventure through the beautiful state of California. God allowed us another wonderful opportunity to experience some of his handy-work and we are so grateful he did. We honestly didn't expect to enjoy California quite as much as we did, but we are already talking (dreaming) about our future return. We absolutely loved the beautiful weather, diverse landscapes and lively, friendly people! We really couldn't get enough of this place - it has easily climbed the charts as one of our top favorite adventures! 

The Champagne is gone, streamers are packed and Fireworks have sounded. It is officially a New Year and the time of reflection and remembering has set in. What a year 2017 was! We have chosen "Tenacious Euphoria" as our descriptive phrase for 2017 and let me tell you why. It was a year that challenged and strengthened us in many ways, while blessing us with many beautiful moments and memories scattered throughout just when we started to need it. 
Our adventures for this year weren't as planned as previous years and yet we still managed to see an abundance of new places and have wonderful experiences that will follow us forever. Take a glimpse at our amazing 2017 adventures through this (not so brief) photo essay. 

​Black Friday is infamous for it's extravagant department store bargains, deals, and crowds but there are also many ways to cash in on the savings with TRAVEL. While it may be tempting to make a b-line for that new flat screen tv that is 90% off ... for the first 4 customers ...  while others sip their coffee and browse the great price selections just out of curiosity, you can sit right in your living room and find great deals on experiences that will last you a lifetime instead of items that will become outdated in a few years! Check out these great prices and deals on travel and surprise the family with a Black Friday special experience they won't forget!

If you ever find yourself in realistic distance of taking a trip to the coastal port city of Wilmington, North Carolina it comes highly recommended by us! We have overlooked this town for a blog post option a few times simply because it feels so close to home. We forget that not everyone can just pick up and go there. However, it's certainly planned trip worthy. It has such a welcoming, local vibe that you often forget you are just visiting. In fact, after awhile it becomes hard to admit you're just visiting. It's certainly one of those places you could stay for awhile. 

Located close to the North Sea on the central, eastern shores, near the Firth of Forth, Edinburgh, Scotland is the second largest city in Scotland. Edinburgh is compiled of hills and scenic views making it a highlighted stop for many travelers, historians and tourists. 

We have been staying local for a few weeks which has given us some time to really appreciate and remember why we love our hometown so much. In the rapidly growing, diverse, and unique city of Raleigh, NC there is certainly no shortage of offerings .... especially when it comes to food! Just the other day Jo and I were sitting downtown, sipping on some local brew when we decided to verbalize our list of "favorite" restaurants. There are so many top notch choices but we were able to narrow it down to just a couple of true favorites. If you haven't had the chance to visit these we highly recommend checking them out sometime!