THE GOOD LIFE

Hoi Hoi!!! Public service announcement: I am not dead, just having some phone trouble! My phone isn’t receiving texts or calls, so apologies if it seemed like I’ve been ignoring you lol. While I figure it out, please download WhatsApp so we can stay in touch! Just send a message to my phone number with your name!

Now for some amazing news… drum roll, please!! My brother finally proposed to his girlfriend!!!! EEEEEEPPPP! Congratulations, Penn and Audrey! I’m so incredibly happy for you both! And bonus points to Penn for popping the question in Costa Rica with a stunning sunset backdrop. So romantic!

Okay, now for the fun stuff! I've been super busy with work, diving 2-3 times a day, meeting amazing people, and genuinely loving my job. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but even on the stressful days, all it takes is one dive to get me back in action. Being underwater is truly my happy place, so I thought I’d share some photos of the little creatures that brighten my days.

(The photos are in order from right to left as you scroll down.) First up, we have a juvenile trunkfish—about the size of your pinky nail! They float around looking adorable and a bit clueless because they can barely swim. The fish next to it is what they look like fully grown. Next, we’ve got cleaner shrimp—specifically, the Pederson cleaner shrimp and the spotted cleaner shrimp. They’re extra cute with their little whiskers and love hanging out inside sea anemones. Then there are the sea walnuts—those clear, jellyfish-like blobs that float around with fluorescent lights running down their sides.

Next, fireworms! They sting like crazy if you touch one, but I love wafting water on them to see their white puff balls expand. Then there’s the arrow crab—creepy-looking, but they remind me of daddy longlegs from back home lol. The banded reef shrimp are also cool because their whiskers are longer than a cat’s! And last but not least, the disco damselfish. They look super cool, and other types of damselfish are very territorial over their homes (aka a specific rock), so it’s fun to “battle” with them. Let me know what your favorite creature is in the comments ;)

For now, I'm still a glorified underwater tour guide, sharing these hidden sea creatures with everyone, but next month, I'll be taking on more responsibilities! I had originally planned to complete my Instructor course this month, but due to a few unexpected factors, it's been postponed until December. It was a bit of a bummer to find out, but hey, everything happens for a reason, right? So, Plan B is to complete my Assistant Instructor course this month instead. Here’s a little visual for reference:

The green stars represent my dive journey so far, and the red ones mark the courses I hope to complete while I’m in Curaçao. The Assistant Instructor course will allow me to teach a few more classes than I can now, and once I become an Instructor, I'll be able to certify divers. Beyond my love for diving, I’m passionate about continuing my dive education because I love learning, teaching, and challenging myself. Plus, it’s pretty cool to say I’m responsible for adding awesome divers to the community!

Outside of work, my free time is spent with friends enjoying pool nights, game nights, and, of course, nights out. But most importantly, we dive together! Curaçao has so many dive sites, and I’m determined to explore them all before I leave (which, by the way, isn’t happening anytime soon).

Sadly, I have to say a tough goodbye to my two best friends on the island. They’re heading back to the Netherlands at the end of the month, and life here will feel a lot different without them. But I’m so grateful we got to be a part of each other’s lives and create so many amazing memories to cherish. @Tristan @Anna, thank you for being the best friends, neighbors, coworkers, dive buddies, and supporters a girl could ask for. I’m going to miss you both so much.

P.S. I know the photos aren’t the best this time, but my camera’s SD card got water damage (probably from my own sweat... oops!). I’m getting a replacement, though, so I’ll have my usual content ready for the next post. Stay tuned!

SETTLING IN

Hi friends :) I’m back with another blog post for you all!

First off, Hurricane Beryl didn’t touch the island. Thank you, sweet souls, for reaching out to make sure I was okay. We got maybe 10 minutes of rain, and I cherished every minute. Everyone sing it with me: IF YOU LIKE PINA COLADAS AND GETTING CAUGHT IN THE RAIN, BUM BUM!!!

Second, as promised, here’s some diving content for you all! After my last post, my immune system gave me the middle finger, and I had to live without diving for nine whole days because my ears couldn’t equalize. I nearly died. And I am not being dramatic. Working at a dive shop on a beautiful island and not being able to dive is like trapping a kid in a candy store and refusing him candy…cruel if you ask me.

Anyway, Tristan and I did some coral restoration work the other morning. (Here’s some information on what exactly coral restoration is and why we do it). This dive was just to clean the algae growth off the coral nursery trees to promote healthy coral growth before planting the coral on the reef. And yes, Tristan (funny I know) is my new friend/coworker/subpar Dutch tutor featured in the photos below.

With so many factors working against the coral, it sometimes feels pointless to keep trying. But giving up would be like not feeding the hungry just because there will always be people without food. We do what we can, take comfort in our efforts, and set a good example.

After I started feeling better, I made the most of my above-water activities by hanging out with new friends, finding new sunset spots, exploring different restaurants and bars, and practicing my Dutch!

I finally made it to the famous De Vissari and inhaled the sesame-seared tuna (shout out to my instructor Michael for the menu recommendation). I also did the Christoffel Hike, which offers the best view on the island, even though I nearly drowned in my own sweat, haha. So worth it.

I also joined a sand volleyball team and plan to take up lionfish hunting in my free time. And before you get all “fish are friends, not food,” check out this article on how lionfish suck, or don’t. Your call!

Even though I wasn’t in America for the 4th of July celebration, I still got to enjoy multiple firework shows! It turns out that on July 1st, 1863, the slaves on the island gained their independence, so there's plenty to celebrate here too!

And here is some miscellaneous content from the past two weeks, enjoy :)

Once again, thanks for reading! I miss each of your beautiful faces, and I love your comments. It means so much to have your support. My offer to be the best tour guide you’ve ever had still stands, sooo no pressure on coming to visit or anything ;)

Next post, I’ll hopefully have some fun content from my first volleyball tournament and my first lionfish hunt. If there are other things you want to see or hear about, let me know in the comments :)

CURACAO!!

It's official! Butters and I have officially moved to Curacao! It was Butters' first time flying, and he handled it like an absolute champ (with a little help, of course, lol). And if American Airlines is reading this, no, I did not drug my dog…lol. Our connection in Miami was a breeze, and customs took a mere three minutes. All in all, it was a pleasant flying experience, which is a rare treat for me!

It's been a whirlwind two weeks getting settled into my new apartment, starting work, making friends, and exploring my new home! I have to give a special shout-out to Pum and Pitou for making my first week absolutely amazing! These lovely ladies from the Netherlands were on vacation in Curacao and staying in the apartment above me. They are wonderful friends, great Dutch teachers, and even better drivers ;) Speaking of driving, I now zip around in a manual Kia Picanto. We still drive on the right-hand side of the road here, so driving is just as familiar as back home.

I'm so happy and pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome I've received. The people here are just my speed... if it's not obvious, I love island time! Butters is adjusting wonderfully and already has three new doggy friends to call siblings! I live with the sweetest couple, Saskia and Jeroen. They own the complex and are my upstairs neighbors, along with their three dogs. Our place has a giant pool and an incredible view of the city. Thanks to their open arms and wonderful home-cooked dinners, it already feels like home!

I'm learning the ropes at work and loving the career change. My coworkers are friendly, helpful, and just plain fun to be around. Diving every day and meeting new people fulfills me in ways no other job has. Since it's currently the off-season, I'm enjoying the slower pace before things pick up in a few weeks. In our downtime, we work on our coral restoration project. This morning was all about out-planting, fragging, and cleaning coral trees (if you have no idea what that means, don’t worry, pictures are coming next post). It might sound boring to some, but I love giving back to something that brings me so much joy.

Now that I'm here, I admit—everyone was right. I should have made this move sooner! But let's all be glad I finally did it. I'm starting to learn Dutch since everyone here speaks it, but it's not technically necessary because everyone speaks English. Once I get the hang of Dutch, I'll try to learn Papiamento, the local language, which sounds a bit like Portuguese. I want to communicate with all the friendly, warm, and happy people here. Speaking of warm, I know most of my readers are in Texas, so if you need a break from that 100-degree weather, let me know haha.

For those who don't know, I work for a diving company called Dive Division as a Dive Master (aka a glorified underwater tour guide and instructor assistant) until I complete my Instructor program in August! Then I'll be teaching all kinds of people to dive!! I love the diving community and am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to it. If you've ever thought about getting scuba certified, you know where to find me ;)

The diving here is incredible—the clearest water, the liveliest reefs, and the perfect water temperature! Even though these waters lack the big, scary creatures (which my parents are happy about), I do miss seeing sharks, whales, and rays. Regardless, I'm going to be so spoiled after this experience haha. I'm one very happy camper.

Once I get a new charger for my GoPro, I'll be posting more diving content and talking about the coral restoration work we do here as well! I also have just been super busy so I haven’t taken any photos on my cameras yet. Please forgive me for my subpar iPhone photos below lol.

Until next time :)

P.S. The comment section is back up and running, thanks for your patience people!

UPDATE!

Hey Peeps! As many of you know, I’ve been fully immersed in my diving for the past six months. But before I dive in... hehe… here are a few non-diving-related life updates for you:

I’m an Auntie! Yes, Aunt Tristen reporting for duty ;) My sister Cat and her husband Mark had the most beautiful baby girl last week. Everyone, meet Emmalina!

My car finally made it out of the shop after three months. Clifford is fine, but I have to say I will eventually be trading him in for a Toyota Camry. That rental car stole my heart.

Butters turned two in January (ironically, he has the same birthday as my Dad lol) and somehow he has more energy than last year.

I quit my leasing job in April. Why, you ask? Well, now for the fun part!

I am moving to Curaçao on June 1st to become a dive instructor! I know, I can already see your puzzled expression. Where is that? What is that? It’s an island off of Venezuela with almost 200,000 people.

It’s part of the Netherlands, so the natives are Dutch, but they speak a Portuguese-based creole language called Papiamentu. I plan to learn it during my nine months there and might even teach Butters a few tricks in Dutch! Yes, he gets to come with me for this great adventure! I’ll make sure to post lots of pictures of him at the beach :)

I will be working for Dive Division mainly on Blue Bay Beach (red star) just north of Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao. You’re probably wondering how I found this place specifically. My friend and instructor at Scubaland in Austin mentioned he knew a guy looking to hire and well, bibbity boppity boo, now I’ll be a dive instructor too! Thanks Michael!

I recently became a Dive Master (next step instructor) and thought I would share my last dive as a Dive Master in Training! #graduated

Yes, I’m a little scared but mostly ecstatic. I can’t wait to step outside my comfort zone, meet new people, learn a new language, and acquire more diving skills. It took a lot of hard work and sacrifice to finally be able to do this, so I’m ready to get this new chapter of my life started!

To everyone reading this, I just wanted to say thanks. Thank you for the encouragement and support over the past few months. I couldn’t have done this without you amazing people! I also encourage everyone to come and visit!

P.S. There’s only one airport: Curaçao International Airport (CUR). See you soon ;)

HAPPY

Life is pretty damn beautiful. Not to go on a tangent, but for the first time in a long while, I don’t have to search for it. Every day, I see beauty everywhere, and that, in itself, is beautiful. I’m sure many of you reading this are thinking, “What happened to Tristen?” or “Damn, I want what she’s having!”

I can assure you, I am still here (and not under the influence of narcotics). I believe what happened was this: I hit what felt like rock bottom, flushed my ego, forgave those who were long past due, and began treating people the way I wanted to be treated.

We all know how good it feels to make someone happy, whether it's telling a good joke, giving someone flowers, or helping a stranger passing by. And I can honestly say that I do it now without expecting anything in return.

And once that happened, all the hidden beauty in life emerged from the shadows my mind had cast over my existence. I resented my former self for all the beauty I had been missing out on over the years. And then came sadness, realizing there will never be enough time to see all the beauty life has to offer. I promised myself then and there that not a day would go to waste, for that would only cast yet another shadow.

Naturally, I am now driven to find it all, to document it, share it, and cherish it. Here is what I found today:

• The look on my coworker’s face as she happily blushed while delivering a bouquet of roses.

• My friend leaving her hand on mine after a high five just a second longer than usual to tell me with her smile that she was proud of me.

• My dog’s joyful "awhoooo" when I got home from work.

• The way the morning sun came through to nourish the plants lining my apartment.

• The sound you hear when laying onto your pillow while the air eases out between the feathers.

• The hug you need from a friend tightens the grip when you expected them to loosen it, realizing they need it too.

• That first sip of coffee in the morning.

• The sincerity in a stranger's voice when they thank you for holding the door open.

• The song "Beige" by Yoke Lore.

• The twinkling lights of the downtown skyscrapers from the comfort of my porch’s twinkling lights.

• The way I laughed so hard at something a friend said and accidentally snorted, only causing further laughter.

• The way I am going to bed with a smile on my face knowing I have so many people who love me and that I love back.

  I hope everyone reading this makes their own list. You’d be surprised how much you can find in one day.

  And, I know some people may argue that happiness is not linear, nor tangible. I don’t disagree, but I will always argue this: It is real. Life has its ups and downs, there’s certainly not a manual for it, and no matter what happens, how you perceive it will determine so much of your life. So make sure that how you see it, you see it with gratitude and peacefulness.

  I let go of so much anger, resentment, and sadness. Suddenly, I had room for something new. Something better.

  Cheers to something better.

THOUGHTS

Hey everyone! Back in action and better than ever! I know, I know, you were all probably losing sleep wondering where I've been ;) So, let me catch you up on the whirlwind of changes in my life:

First off, the relationship chapter closed. Yep, we gracefully parted ways, and believe me, it's all for the best.

Then, my cyclops of nearly 18 years, Austin, bid adieu. May he rest in peace.

I scored a killer new pad downtown with views that should make my rent a lot higher than it is.

I've switched gears career-wise, now rocking it as a leasing consultant at an apartment complex.

And guess what? Yours truly is officially on the path to becoming a Dive Master! Next stop: BADI - Bad Ass Dive Instructor ;)

Change has been the name of the game lately, but you know what they say, it's all about growth. Here are some nuggets of wisdom I've picked up along the way:

Communication is key. Seriously, don't hold back. You'd be amazed at how often folks think they're on the same page when they're not even in the same book!

Make self-care a priority. Happiness? That's on us. Don't wait around for someone else to sprinkle some joy in your life.

Golden rule alert: Treat others how you want to be treated. It's not just a saying, it's a way of life. So, chill out and spread some good vibes.

Anger Management 101: Don't let it fester. It's like letting a pot boil over - ain't nobody got time for that.

Life's too short for a boring routine. Find time for fun, whether it's telling a cringe-worthy joke or indulging in some elaborate pranks.

Prioritize like a pro. Your choices say a lot about you, so make them count!

Hobbies are the spice of life. And you need at least three spices to cook with. One to challenge your senses (learning a new skill), one to relax your senses (reading or listening to music), and one to expand your senses with others (book club or group sport). Challenge yourself, chill out, and mingle with like-minded souls.

Pro tip: Don't bite off more than you can chew. It's all about balance, people.

Cut out the time-wasters. You know, those things or people that suck the energy right out of you? Yeah, ditch 'em. TRUST ME.

Expectations? Overrated. Actions speak louder than words, my friends.

And for Pete's sake, don't kid yourself about what you want. Keep it real, always.

Appreciation is the name of the game. Gratitude goes a long way, trust me.

So, after a little life shuffle, I've rejigged my priorities, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer. Focusing on family, friends, hobbies, and self-care has brought me a newfound sense of peace and love.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, Butters is still as adorable as ever, celebrating his second birthday in style. Meanwhile, I'm on the hunt for the perfect medium-format camera to complement my trusty Nikon F2.

And if you happen to spot a Toyota Camry blasting tunes, yup, that's yours truly. My 4Runner's been in the shop for over a month…

Oh, and a little PSA: Do yourself a favor and check out "The Happiness Project" at your next bookstore visit. It's like a shot of positivity straight to the soul.

Hope you all had a stellar holiday season and that 2024 is treating you right. Don't forget, I love to hear your thoughts so leave a comment :)

KEY LARGO

Guess what, folks? I just returned from my very first solo adventure, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of epic! Despite my initial butterflies about flying solo, rest assured, this won't be my last solo escapade.

So, I hopped on a plane to Miami and then zipped down to Key Largo for REEF Fest. Why, you ask? Well, I had this wild urge to catch a sneak peek of what my life could be like if I dove headfirst into coral restoration. Pun intended ;)

***

Now, picture this: I'm mingling with the locals, and they're all like, "You're a Texan? Why coral restoration? What's the deal?" And I swear I must've given a different answer to every single one of them.

You know Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, right? Well, if Maslow had a version for ocean ecosystems, coral reefs would be the very foundation of that pyramid. They provide the food and shelter that makes the marine world go 'round, from the teeniest fish to the grandest whales. And I guess my final answer is that I've got this burning desire to help lay that foundation for all the ocean's cool cats, like jellyfish.

Then comes the diving part, which, let me tell you, is like catching a crazy addiction you never want to quit. Coral Restoration Foundation took me on a deep-sea journey to two of their fantastic dive sites. One was a tree farm nursery, and the other was an out-planted reef where we frolicked amidst the most spectacular dive conditions you could ever imagine. Warm waters, perfect visibility, and no annoying currents to mess up our groove.

And even though this summer's heatwave did a number on the coral, life was still swirling all around us. Moon jellies made their grand entrance, gracefully gliding through, giving our dives a thrilling 'dodge the bullet' game.

***

But diving isn't just an activity; it's a passionate love affair with the sea. I've always been smitten with the ocean. It's like time itself hits the brakes down there, making every underwater moment feel like its very own lifetime. It's vast, powerful, and teeming with mysteries. Every dive reminds me how tiny I am and, weirdly, that's the best kind of humble.

Day two of diving was like the cherry on top. Perfect weather, crystal-clear waters, baby green sea turtles swimming around in me in circles and dolphins saying hello on our way back—pure magic. We even did fish surveys for REEF, making us part of something much bigger than ourselves.

And then there were the events: happy hours, open houses, seminars, and dinners with some of the friendliest people who made me feel right at home. It's a breath of fresh sea air to be surrounded by folks who share my passion.

And by folks I mean the place was buzzing with retirees, the legendary "Snow Birds" who soar south to escape winter's chilly clutches up north. I had a delightful chat with Mark, and to my surprise, we found we had plenty in common. Who knew that I'd discover common ground with an old-timer?

***

I didn't stop at diving; I explored a local bird sanctuary, geeked out at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and time-traveled at the History of Diving Museum. Can you believe how diving gear has evolved since the 1800s? How did someone in their right mind think wearing this 20ft down was safe?

And here's the kicker: I surprisingly relished my alone time. Maybe it's because I wasn't alone at all. I was in a place that nourishes my soul and among people who spark my dreams.

Because of all this, my intuition was practically screaming that I was meant to be there. So, here's to keeping my fingers crossed for an opportunity to come knocking on my door soon. I can already envision Butters and me, rising at the crack of dawn to witness the sunrise from the cozy little boat we'd call home at the marina down there.

***

Now, you might be wondering, "Where are those stunning photos?" Well, my not-so-brainy self packed my camera but left its battery behind. It was like missing a limb the whole weekend, but I rocked it with my sea legs instead.

How did I wrap up this adventure, you ask? The only proper way, of course: I caught the sunset, a magical finale to an unforgettable journey.

It really is the little things :)

DREAMS

A dream is like a beacon of hope, a cherished aspiration, an ambitious goal, or an ideal that stirs your heart. But what makes dreams truly amazing is their incredible versatility. Your dream can be whatever ignites your passion and inspires you to reach for the stars. It's a canvas waiting for your unique and awe-inspiring masterpiece.

We are endlessly encouraged to follow our dreams as kids. We are pushed, supported, and praised for doing so. So what happens? All of a sudden, we hit puberty, and now we get grief for not settling for a job that we don't care about but it pays the bills. They say, "Well, that's the real world." I'd like to call "cap" on that. The world, your life, is what you make it.

For the past few months, I have been so angry with myself for believing otherwise. I let others' opinions scare me toward something more stable or typical, and now I have to make a complete 180 at 25. It's been humbling.

As you know, I am finally pursuing my dream of becoming a ocean conservationist, or a mermaid if you had asked me 20 years ago.

With the lack of experience and education, it's more than challenging to even get an email back from the organizations I look up to. It hurts, but I know one day, I will surface from a dive and look out at the boat against the horizon and let out a deep breath and maybe a tear of joy, knowing I had finally made my childhood dream come true and become the girl that little me would be so proud of.

I've mentioned before how scary it can be to chase after something you really want because you're afraid of failing. But what I didn't talk about is how equally terrifying it is to have no clue what your dream even is. Trust me, we all grapple with this at some point in our lives. Deep down, I knew I wanted to be a mermaid, but when I was stuck in my old job, I felt totally lost. I kept telling myself I didn't know what I wanted, but the truth was, I did know—I just couldn't admit it because I was scared. If you're ever feeling lost, don't worry too much because that won't last forever. Everybody has that little spark hidden somewhere inside them. Maybe it'll take a friend, an event, a song, a new job, a memory, or heck, even a random billboard to remind you, but I promise, when the time is right, you'll rediscover it.

All mine took was a week-long trip to the Bahamas and half my savings. HA. I suggest something more economical though ;)

But want to know the best part about dreams? Dreams evolve, and that's perfectly fine. We're not the same individuals we were seven years ago, and we won't be the same seven years from now. It's a beautiful journey because we have the privilege to pursue a fresh dream if we decide to do so.

So whatever it is, go get it. Life is too short not to.

My first step in 'going and getting it' was to become a certified mermaid. I am officially a PADI Open Water Diver! :) It was such a fun experience, and I will soon be getting my advanced and rescue diver certifications before my trip to Key Largo next month. Stay tuned for that blog post because it's going to be awesome!

P.S. I highly recommend that if you do want to get your diving certification, do it somewhere pretty. Lake Travis is far from typical mermaid standards.

DONNELLY

After two flights and a stunning two-hour drive through the majestic mountains and winding river valleys, we finally arrived at Tamarack Resort. Our family has somewhat of a tradition of spending Christmas here, all while trying our best not to turn the slopes into our personal obstacle course.

Fortunately, during the summer months, the lifts are open for mountain biking – a thrilling alternative that I decided not to embrace on this trip. As Sid the sloth from Ice Age said it, “I choose life.”

Over the past decade, Tamarack has undergone a remarkable transformation. The newly constructed apartments, restaurants, resort club, and more, now collectively known as "The Village," snugly nestle next to the main lift. I can’t wait to see how cute it looks in the snow.

One thing I made sure not to miss was witnessing each sunrise, and boy, was it worth the early wake-up calls! The first morning treated us to a striking pink and purple sky, followed by a dramatic orange spectacle, and the last day offered a gentle, golden glow.

Our first morning adventure took us to a golf course outside of town, boasting breathtaking views that managed to divert my attention from my less-than-stellar golfing skills. We tried our luck at golf two more times, hoping my family's golfing prowess would somehow transfer to me. It didn't quite work out, but it hardly mattered. On our final round, we had the entire golf course to ourselves, surrounded by serene quiet, a cool breeze, and panoramic mountain vistas – truly soul-refreshing.

We retrieved our bikes from storage and pedaled down to the lake, where we skipped rocks and dared each other to take a dip. As is my tradition, I collected the first of many fallen leaves during this trip, adding to my ever-growing collection at home. Before you scoff, leaves make fantastic travel mementos – they're unique to the area, free, lightweight, and last indefinitely. Plus, I can use them to spruce up my apartment every fall.

The following day, we rode the lifts up to mid-mountain to explore and savor the awe-inspiring views. Given that we visited after Labor Day, the place was practically deserted, and they kindly allowed us to go up for free. We embarked on a hike to another closed lift, which, in my humble opinion, offered the most breathtaking view of the entire trip.

Of course, we couldn't pass up the chance to experience The Village, especially since this was my first visit since its grand opening. We discovered a self-tap bar – a glimpse into the future, where you grab a card, scan it next to any of the 20+ taps, and fill your own drink. Welcome to the future, folks! In the evenings, we brought our books down to read before getting ready for dinner, making the most of our relaxing time.

p.c. Joe

And speaking of relaxation, every night before bedtime, we unwound in the hot tub, gazing up at the starry night sky, a perfect way to end our days. We also spent our nights playing card games and enjoying some jackbox TV. Fun fact: Your small intestines measure a whopping 20 feet long! Thank you jackbox TV for filling the gaps in my and my sibling’s educations.

On our last day, we ventured to McCall for lunch and some leisurely shopping. Having grown up in a small town myself, every return visit reminds me of how much I miss it. Everyone knows everyone, there are no parking woes, and no endless queues. You feel a sense of tranquility and safety, even during local hunting season when groups of camouflage-clad men roam about, well aware that their vehicles are loaded with guns.

I already find myself missing the crisp scent of pine that permeated the air. This area truly is a hidden gem, and it makes me wonder about the countless other underrated towns waiting for me to discover.

P.S. Don't forget to check out my 2023 album for more awe-inspiring snapshots from our unforgettable trip! 📸

MACKINAC ISLAND

I know you probably read that as Mackinack but it’s actually pronounced Mackinaw. Originally named Michilimackinac (which means ‘Great Turtle’) and founded in 1857. I didn’t know that until after we left so the whole day I was wondering why I kept seeing giant turtle statues scattered about lol.

Okay. This place is better than Disney World as a seven-year-old. Despite it being THE tourist spot in Michigan, it exceeds expectations. To get there, you board a ferry that takes you to the island in under 20mins. You get a great view of the Mackinac Bridge on the way.

There are no cars allowed on the island. Just bikes and horse carriages. I know, adorable right?

This little island is filled with history, sweets, and flowers. Churches with stained glass windows, fudge factories, green parks on the shoreline, original hotels/inns, and a well-preserved Fort Michilimackinac and homes that scream the American Dream. I have to give a shout-out to the locals and landscaping crew because damn.

We of course rented bikes and peddled the 8.25 miles around the island. On the other side of the bay, there is a small hike up to a lookout point and once again I thought I was looking out into the ocean. We jumped in the water halfway through the ride for a refresh before returning our bikes. The pebble-filled shoreline, cool breeze, and old homes hidden in the trees made this a bike ride I will always remember.

I also have to say that Butters was a complete celebrity on the island. Nearly every minute, someone would tell us how cute he was or ask to pet him and even ask to take a picture. We should have started charging people for pets lol. I also heard so many un-asked stories about other people’s dead corgis. All elderly people whose corgis had passed away.

For everyone who thought I was going to end up an old crazy cat lady. You are wrong. I will become an old crazy corgi lady. Ha!

STANTON

After twenty-four-plus hours and 1,143 miles, we finally arrived at our destination. I love a good road trip, so I enjoyed the butt-numbing drive. Butters and Austin didn’t mind either. They were cuddled up sleeping in the back seat without a care. But once those car doors opened, they were out and about, ready for adventure.

As you can see, Butters immediately took to the lake life and loved puttering around on the pontoon. We tried getting Austin on the pontoon, but shockingly, as a cat, he didn’t take to being surrounded by water all too well lol.

Butter’s mind expanded when he found out what fish are and that they live under the water. He became our fishing assistant by countlessly scanning the water for bass.

Summer’s in Michigan are filled with luscious gardens, thick corn fields, plush grass, cool breezes, and stunning sunsets. It was so refreshing to see greenery everywhere you look. It was also a treat for the pets getting to spend all day outside without risking a heat stroke.

Our first adventure of the trip took us into the city. We visited the Grand Rapids Public Museum where I learned all about the land of corn, cars, and chlorastrolite (the state gem). I got to ride a 100-year-old carousel. I was noticeably the oldest person riding but I didn’t care because being a kid is good for the soul.

We visited Joe’s friends and family here and there throughout the trip and I got to see what realistically living in Michigan would look like. Not bad at all my friends. Affordable living, light traffic, endless parks and trails, and just decent down-to-earth people. To my preference, it was a much-needed retreat from the hustle and bustle in Austin.

To my surprise, I played golf for the first time in over a decade and actually enjoyed it. Joe’s family can vouch for me when I say I performed pretty great for not ever playing before.

In the second week, we visited the famous Mackinac Island. It was so incredible it deserves its own blog post so stay tuned for that.

We spent a day in Grand Haven on Lake Michigan. When I say lake, I really mean beach. Huge sandy beaches, waves, and a horizon that looks as if you are looking out into the ocean. This place was so cute. I am talking about the best place to settle down in your cute little beach homes, sand castle contests, sailboats, ice cream on every corner, and strollers filled with little kids and puppies.

We spent most evenings watching the sunset from the pontoon, playing lots of card games, and eating. A lot. But in honor of our last night, we spent it around a campfire watching the meteor shower. The stars. Just wow.

EXUMAS PT2

Going to bed every night was a treat with the boat rocking me to sleep while I stargazed (but mostly thunderstorm-gazed) through my bunk port. Storms seemed to follow us wherever we went, but that was a blessing. I would have been in pain without the cloud coverage, cool rain, and constant breeze. Plus, the lightning shows were great nightly entertainment.

Thunderstorms are even more magical on a boat. It’s a complete surround sound experience.

Fortunately, the days were filled with sunshine, providing ideal diving conditions around the reefs.

We stayed in the park for two more nights at different islands. Aside from desperately searching for an octopus to awe over, we mainly swam around, exploring.

Witnessing the demise of corals and other reef life was heart-wrenching, but it ignited an even stronger passion within me for ocean conservation.

Lots of coral death :(

This was also my first time using weights for diving (the blue belt around my waist), which made things much easier. Saltwater makes you buoyant, so the added weights really made a difference. I could just slowly sink down instead of awkwardly thrashing myself downwards.

Of course, we spent time walking the uninhabited beaches where my main form of entertainment was watching hundreds of tiny hermit crabs crawl across the sand. Most of them were as small as my pinky nail, but some were as big as the conch I'm hunched over. I guess I'm super scary-looking because I stayed like that for four minutes, and it never moved.

We ended our trip on Highborne Cay, where the extra-fortunate souls go to dock their yachts and drink on a private beach with golf cart service and a talking parrot. Besides our captain, this was our first time talking to people since our airport taxi driver.

We had a good laugh at the names of the yachts docked here. My personal favorites were "Plan A" (pictured below) and their smaller boat, "Plan B," and "Bad Romance V." Yes, five. I really hope whoever owns that one has learned to use a prenup by now or at least knows that Lady Gaga song word for word.

Literally had a crew of 12+ people for a party of four…

We spent our last night on land, dining at the only restaurant on the island where the staff was nothing but friendly. Lobster mac and cheese, sweet potato fries, tuna tartare, crab spring rolls, and a bottle of Pinot Grigio – it was the perfect way to end our mother-daughter trip.

I don't even have words for how amazing this trip was. I felt free, which is all I ever want to feel. I loved getting to hear the stories of our captain's previous life adventures. It was a gentle reminder that not everyone has a predetermined direction in life, and it gave me comfort knowing you don't have to choose just one career path or thing to do with your life.

I am even more grateful I got to spend such good quality time with my mom. Moments with family are so important, and I know that looking back, we will both be thankful we had this time together.

P.S. More trip photos coming soon in the 2023 gallery :)

EXUMA CAYS

Let's talk about connecting with yourself. It's no surprise that I feel euphoric in the ocean, given that I'm a Pisces who grew up on the water. Plus, living on a boat is just better. You get to replace the mundane household chores with exciting boat tasks! Lock the door or close the hatch? Park the car or anchor the boat? I could go on, but you get my point.

My journey began when I flew into Nassau with my mom. We stayed at a hotel across from Atlantis for a night, where I unfortunately experienced food poisoning and had the pleasure of getting to know the porcelain throne all night. But that didn't matter because the next morning, we boarded our temporary home: a Leopard 46' Catamaran – cue the holy music.

Let me introduce you to Amazing Grace. Not to assume pronouns, but she was a beauty who took us to some incredible places. We embarked on a journey through the Exumas, an archipelago consisting of 365 islands – yes, that's a lot of islands. The Exuma Cays exceeded my expectations, and we centered our trip around snorkeling and free diving, trying to avoid crowds as best we could.

I was somewhat relieved to see bits and pieces of thriving marine and reef life still left in this protected area. That gave my heart the embrace it needed after witnessing the devastating loss of marine life over the past decade. Coral species were more diverse, colorful, and abundant than I expected. I had the incredible opportunity to swim with Lemon Sharks, Nurse Sharks, Reef Sharks, Bull Sharks, Green Sea Turtles, Loggerhead Turtles, Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, a sea of Thimble Jellyfish, Reef Squid, and every type of fish you can imagine.

The Nurse Sharks, for instance, were fascinating. They mostly rested beneath something providing shade and were incredibly docile as they drifted in the shallow waters.

And then there was this magnificent Eagle Ray, a rare sight during our trip. We swam around with it for a few minutes, its white cheetah-like spots glistening in the sunlight.

But perhaps the most awe-inspiring encounter was with the largest, oldest, and most prehistoric-looking Loggerhead turtle I had ever seen. This Loggerhead was a remarkable sight to behold. It might not look enormous in the picture, but imagine a fully grown man in a cannonball position, and that would just about cover the shell.

In between these exhilarating swims, we indulged in some delicious meals. I found myself looking forward to every meal, not only because we had an amazing cook on board, but also because each meal came with a breathtaking view. Our captain even speared a lobster for dinner on our second night, just before entering the park, where such catches would have been illegal.

That lobster was absolutely delicious, especially paired with some local Nassau IPA ;)

Once we entered the Exuma Cay Land and Sea Park, we got to experience places that felt straight out of a movie, only better. The park encompasses over 100,000 acres, all protected from fishing, shelling, conching, and lobstering. Warderick Wells island, home to the park's headquarters, boasted a small hiking trail known as Boo Boo Hill.

Additionally, the island had an actual whale skeleton on its beach. It's remarkable how often we forget, as humans, just how minuscule we are in comparison to everything else in the world. The island also featured a brown salt pond in the middle, which I wanted to explore further, but the mosquitoes were on steroids out there.

Here are some fun facts I picked up during my visit: All the palm trees in the Exumas were my height (which I like to think of as cute and mini) because there's no taller vegetation to compete with. Mangrove bushes act like kidneys, filtering out the salt they absorb from the water, and piling it into one leaf on the bush, which then turns yellow and falls off to begin the process anew.

This trip was too incredible to squeeze into just one blog post, so stay tuned for part two!

VALUES

Values are a crucial aspect of our lives. They shape our decisions, define our priorities, and guide our actions. But what's interesting is that everyone's values differ, and this can both help and hinder our relationships with others around us.

Your values are like the compass that directs your life's journey. They reflect what truly matters to you, what you're willing to stand up for, and what you believe in wholeheartedly. For some, like me, the value of the ocean is unwavering, and I'm willing to take risks and make sacrifices to protect it.

However, the beauty of the human experience lies in the diversity of values. What matters deeply to one person may not hold the same significance for another. And therein lies both the strength and the challenge of human relationships.

Our differences in values can enrich our interactions with others. They expose us to new perspectives, broaden our horizons, and foster empathy. When we engage with people who hold different values, we have the opportunity to learn, grow, and evolve.

But these differences can also create friction. Conflicting values can lead to misunderstandings, disagreements, and even strained relationships. It's essential to navigate these situations with respect, open-mindedness, and a willingness to find common ground.

For example, I've always valued the ocean deeply, but fear had held me back from taking a career risk in ocean conservation since I graduated from college. I was afraid people would label me as a tree hugger or a 'save the turtles' girl. I worried about failing, not being able to protect the ocean, or making a positive difference in its ecosystems. I was told I wouldn't make enough money, and that no one really cared about the ocean, deeming it a waste of my time. These doubts weighed heavily on my mind.

Yet, my value for the ocean outweighed my fears. I recently embarked on a week-long sailing trip in the Bahamas, hoping it would give me the boost I needed to take my next career step into ocean conservation. And it did. I know finding a job in this field won't be easy, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to try.

This trip not only reinforced my commitment to marine conservation but also reminded me of the importance of embracing risk when it aligns with our values. Just as the ocean's vastness inspires awe, the diversity of values in our lives can enrich our experiences and connections with others. By recognizing and appreciating these differences, we navigate the intricate waters of human relationships, guided by the compass of our values.

HAPPINESS

We all have our definitions of happiness. Some see it as not crying all the time, having the energy to get out of bed each morning, being a star athlete, having the best relationships, or whatever comes to mind as you read this.

So, what is happiness? Is it constant? Is it tangible? Is it real?

Happiness is something that shouldn't be rigidly defined, if you ask me. Think of something that made you happy as a kid; would that still make you happy today? Low gas prices didn't mean much to eight-year-old me, and a bug catcher wouldn't get my blood pumping today. I'm not saying happiness depends on material things, but we do live in a material world. Many people connect happiness with possessions, which makes it seem never fully attainable. We always want the next version of the iPhone, the next line of Gucci shoes, or a better-established partner.

So, no, to me, happiness is not tangible or constant, but it is real. For a time in my life, I thought it wasn't. I believed it was something people faked, hoping that one day they would eventually feel it. If that's how you view happiness, I hope this article changes that perspective for you.

For me, happiness is about knowing what you want and doing it, sprinkled with gratitude. It won't last unless you add gratitude to the mix.

I want to write down my thoughts for strangers on the internet. Check. I appreciate the laptop I write on, the web I publish on, and the fingers I type with. Happy.

I want a dog. Check. I appreciate the healthy poops I get to bag up each day, the ecstatic greetings each time I come home, and the adventures we go on together. Happy.

I want Chick-Fil-A. Damn, it's Sunday. I appreciate saving money, the gas I'm not spending, and the fact that I'm not at work. Happy.

It doesn't matter what you want. Just do it, get it, say it, be it, and appreciate it. But Tristen, how am I supposed to be happy when I can't do what I want?

Step One: Define your want. Not, "I want to be healthy," but "I want to work out three times a week, eat vegetables every day, and not drink more than 3 beers in one sitting."

Step Two: Why do you want something? Not, "I want to be fit so this guy I like, likes me back," but "I want to be fit so I can feel confident wearing anything."

Step Three: What is blocking you from what you want? Not "laziness," but "I don't know where or how to work out, what veggies to buy, and I keep saying yes to meeting friends at a brewery."

Step Four: Give it time. Not "I still look overweight," but "I will be patient and enjoy trying new recipes and different yoga studios."

For years, I mistook happiness for a short-term feeling of achievement or fulfillment. The truth is, happiness isn't just one thing, one time, one feeling. It's a compilation of all the little bits of happiness and appreciation for doing what we want. By doing the things we want to do, we make little long-term investments in our future happiness.

As cliché as it sounds, it's about the journey, not the destination. If we don't enjoy the journey to happiness, well, it's probably not happiness we've reached. It's probably just an award, promotion, or weight goal we reached because we thought it would bring happiness.

Step Five: Attitude. If you have a negative, unappreciative attitude, it can hinder your happiness. I say this from experience. I was far from happy at one point in my life because I fixated on the bad and let it define my perspective on people and life in general. I had such a narrow scope that I missed all the good around me. That perspective defeated the happy-go-lucky, appreciative person I was deep down.

Don't let expectations control you, or one bad day or event define you. Life can be tough sometimes, but the people who keep doing what they want are often the happiest. Those who allow distractions, social structures, opinions, and expectations to drive their actions, well, they're less likely to be happy.

For all the happy people reading this, take a moment to appreciate that. Many people fight for happiness day after day. If you know someone who is, maybe share this with them or just try to be there for them more often. Life can be challenging, but it's reassuring to know we have others to count on when we can't count on ourselves.

FRIENDS

Naturally, we spend the majority of our lives with friends. The family we're born with is one thing, but the family we create is another—it's often better. We find people who connect with us, discover common ground, and begin to trust each other. We share experiences that bring us closer, going through it all together.

We've all heard that "friends come and go," and each friendship teaches us something different. When I experienced my first loss, I was devastated. We all know the pain that comes with losing the trust, love, and support that friendship brings. I used to never understand why this would happen. Why would someone give up on a friend? Why would they break that trust? Why would they hurt someone they claimed to love so much?

As you'll read below, it could be a lot of things, but what stands out to me is change. We meet each other at one point in time, and a year or two down the line, we look, act, think, and talk differently without even recognizing it. We connect to who that person is at that given time, and only some friendships are strong enough to endure that change together. Those are the ones to hold on to and stay grateful for. The others are the ones you let go of and say thank you to. Thank them for the time they gave, the support they provided, and the love they shared.

I wouldn't be who I am today without the influence of each soul I've connected with over the years. Each person has taught me something about life and about myself, both the good and the bad. Friends have made me aware of a lot, and they've also taught me a lot.

Here are some valuable lessons:

Acceptance: Not just of some things, but of all things. Never push change onto others, and never feel pressured to change.

Balance: Give and take must be even. Check yourself and adjust. If things don't even out, maybe it's time to rethink your friendship.

Codependence: It may feel like love but can look like control to everyone else. We cannot suffocate; we can only be free.

Direction: Know where you want to go and don't let someone else's direction distract you from your path.

Expectations: No one is perfect. Communication is the only way to avoid inflicting pain.

Trust: No relationship can withstand without it. Be grateful when it's given and reflect when it's taken.

Friendship, just like any relationship, takes effort. The things I've learned ensure that my effort goes toward a worthy cause. Let this serve as a reminder not to take your friends for granted. All we want is to be loved and accepted. Don't let that go to waste.

NEW YEAR

A whole month of the new year has already come and gone. As cliché as it may sound, each year really does seem to pass by faster than the previous. It serves as a reminder that I need to slow down sometimes and appreciate what's right in front of me.

Looking back over the past year, at my decisions, words, goals, habits, and thoughts, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. I realized that I had made significant progress in the right direction—or at least the direction I wanted to go. I've developed a strange sense of pride in myself, something I haven't felt in quite some time. Being happy feels good; it feels healthy.

But I can't stop here, even if I tried. So, I've created another list of goals to accomplish in 2023. I hope it fills with just as much growth and happiness as the last, and it's off to a good start.

Butters, Joe, and I kicked off the new year by heading north to Inks Lake State Park. Camping is grounding for me, providing what I crave. Every time I go, I regret not doing it more often.

During our trip, we taught ourselves how to play Gin Rummy, and I taught Joe how to play Speed. We savored hot dogs by the fire while listening to music under the stars. We hiked, read books, took photos, and simply relaxed.

Another exciting start to the new year involves our move! We're upgrading to a bigger apartment because 560 sq ft was not sufficient for the four of us. I'm sure many can relate to feeling like they own an unnecessary amount of things when it's time to pack up and move. Once you cross the line from need to want, you find yourself in the thickest of quicksand. Let this be a reminder to anyone reading this on a budget: You don't need it; you just want it.

I'd also like to express my gratitude. Starting this blog has been one of the best decisions I've made, and having your support means the world to me. The world can be harsh, life is unfair, and people are quick to judge. But I hope this website provides someone else with the encouragement to find the safe, judgment-free zone that we all need.

Happy New Year friends!

FORGIVENESS

Forgiveness isn't easy. In my experience, there are two types of forgiveness:

Forgiving yourself and forgiving others.

Both require you to toss your ego out the window and accept that you may never hear the apology or validation you so desperately desire. Everyone processes things differently, but here are a few lessons I've learned about forgiveness.

1. Accept people for who they are, not who you want them to be.

This step is crucial. It's better to embrace someone for who they are than to be disappointed when they don't meet your expectations for who you want them to be. If you're struggling to forgive someone, ask yourself if it's because they failed to meet an expectation you had.

Just because you have a child doesn't guarantee you'll have a motherly instinct. Just because you hold a leadership role doesn't mean you have the delegation skills for it. Just because someone calls you their best friend doesn't mean you can read their mind. Just because you make someone your partner doesn't mean they'll always make you happy. But these are all things people often expect because it's the norm.

My point is, that everyone has flaws. If you genuinely love someone, you'll accept them for their reckless behavior, impatience, potty mouth, temper, or whatever it may be. You need to breathe and find comfort in the fact that it's just them. You know what to expect from them, so why expect anything different?

2. Forgiveness takes time, so be patient.

Patience is key when it comes to forgiveness. Let's say you made a mistake; you can't expect the person you hurt to magically get over it. Likewise, it works the other way around. It might take some time apart, honest communication, and self-reflection.

3. If you can't be honest with yourself, how can you expect others to be honest with you?

Make sure that when you say you've forgiven someone, you genuinely mean it. Faking forgiveness only leads to more damage. If you're upset, express it. If that person doesn't respect your feelings, it's a clear sign they're not open to forgiveness in the first place.

4. It's not always about you.

We've all played the victim card at some point—feeling like life is unfair and wallowing in self-pity. The truth is, if someone hurt you, it might be because you didn't communicate your expectations honestly. And if you did, and they still hurt you, perhaps it's time to reevaluate those expectations.

You never truly know what someone else is going through. I once got upset with a coworker for not pulling their weight on an important project, only to discover they had a family member pass away three days earlier. Sometimes, it's just not about you.

Lastly, remember what's best for you, or rather, who is. If you love and accept someone for who they are, but they can't reciprocate, it's probably in your best interest to invest your time in someone who can.

Forgiveness is challenging, but without it, we'd all be angry, bitter, and vengeful. That's not the kind of world I want to live in. And always remember, people change, so don't confine them to a single character where their flaws define them.

COLORADO SPRINGS

I know I haven't written in a while. I have no excuses, just some really captivating books that held me captive for the whole month of October.

In celebration of Turkey Day, Joe, Butters, and I joined friends who have become like family in a charming cabin in Woodland Park, Colorado. It took us a whopping 14 hours of driving, five gas breaks, and several Joe Rogan podcasts to get there. As we ascended in elevation, our patience descended. It doesn't matter how old you are; your mind still asks, 'Are we there yet?'

Thanksgiving has always been a sentimental time for me, as my past Thanksgiving experiences never quite met my expectations. With overdosing aunts and relatives sent to rehab, divorced parents, and independent siblings, this holiday never really lived up to much. I love my family, perhaps a little too much, which is why my expectations were always set too high. Now that I'm older, I realize how grateful I am to spend this holiday with people who reciprocate that sentiment.

The cabin was brimming with food, drinks, laughter, and adventure. Once we arrived, we unpacked and uncorked the champagne to kick off the first night of vacation. It was a perfect start to Thanksgiving, with a cozy fire, a steaming hot tub, and the first snowfall of the season. This was Butter's first time experiencing snow. He frolicked through the frosty grounds with excitement in his crossed eye. Everyone said he looked like he belonged out there, and I must admit, I did consider relocating after hearing that, lol.

Don't get me wrong, Texas is nice. It's where I grew up and where I continue to grow. But, just like many people, I crave adventure. One state can only provide so much of that. That's why I'm always grateful for opportunities like this one. These adventures provide me with new experiences, perspectives, and ideas. Without those, I don't know if I'd ever grow as a person.

Being surrounded by people at different stages in life, working toward various goals, serves as a great reminder. I often find myself stuck in a rut because I become too content with life. Witnessing others stepping out of their comfort zones inspires me to initiate some change in mine. Especially with the new year approaching, it's a reminder to evaluate where I'm headed and where I want to be headed.

***

We played ping-pong, card games, and drinking games, went hiking, cooked lots of food, and consumed plenty of beverages. All in all, a solid holiday weekend. I managed to read an entire book, caught up on sleep, and enjoyed quality time with Joe and Butters. I'm already bracing for the post-holiday blues. Just know that if you're excited to go to work, you're a very lucky human. I'd be much more enthusiastic about mine if I could bring Butters to work with me every day.

I hope everyone had at least one thing to be grateful for this holiday, because the truth is, we have so much to be grateful for, whether we realize it or not. Your perspective and attitude truly shape your life, so keep that in mind the next time you find yourself complaining about something.

Happy Holidays and Happy Thanksgiving

MICHIGAN

As a born and raised Texan, there's nothing more refreshing than heading up north. After a visit to Michigan last fall, I thought nothing could beat the vibrant leaves, crisp air, and sensational cider. That was until this trip. The entire week was all about fishing, grilling, and swimming.

Growing up on a crystal-clear river in South Texas, lakes never held much appeal for me. But Michigan is an exception. Not only are their Great Lakes stunning, but they also have thousands of smaller lakes scattered across the state. Michigan boasts over 11,000 lakes, ranking it 3rd among all the states. Lakefront property is commonplace in Michigan compared to Texas. It's not just for the wealthy or retired; it's simply part of being a Michigander.

With Joe's family residing on a smaller lake, we took the pontoon out at least twice a day. Pontoon boats would line up together while everyone sipped on beer and basked in the warmth of the sun. Some would tow kids on their tubes, and we would all revel in the spectacle of laughter and screams of excitement. Others were out there trying to reel in the biggest Pike fish they could find or simply paddling around on kayaks, relishing the day. One evening, I even managed to catch a pike for the family to enjoy for dinner.

We embarked on a day trip to Lake Michigan, and I must say, it truly resembles the ocean. It's so convincing that when I answered my phone, the person on the other end asked, "Are you at the beach?" It was a day filled with sandy beaches, gentle waves lapping at the shore, and a horizon stretching as far as the eye could see, all water.

We lounged in our floats, got a bit too tipsy at lunch, and let the water and sun exhaust us before heading home.

The people we encountered were incredibly friendly, and that little lake felt like a close-knit community. It's the kind of community that adores Chevy cars, local corn, and a good light beer – a true "American-made" community. I have to say, the Amish up there grow some darn good corn, and a Bud Light washes it down just right.

The sunsets were breathtaking every night, and one evening, we even enjoyed a free fireworks show courtesy of a neighbor. The stars filled the sky, accompanied by a chorus of chirping crickets. It was genuinely a relaxing and rejuvenating trip, one I will certainly make again if the opportunity arises.