I have the feeling that most of you, like myself, want to live a purpose driven, meaningful life. I think about my role in this world often, and some days the answer is clear. But sometimes, the water is muddy and the answer is less obvious. Awhile back, Laura Petrolino suggested I read “Man’s Search…
Creative Ways the National Park Service Used the PESO Model
Last month, my husband and I bounced around four national parks. I was struck by the National Park Service’s (NPS) communication efforts and was curious to learn more about its 100th anniversary campaign. Whether purposefully executed or not, it became evident the NPS successfully implemented the PESO model. Let’s take a look. What is the…
Destination NW: Arches National Park
The last leg of our journey took us through Moab, Utah, and Arches National Park. As much as we wanted to camp one more night, below freezing temperatures pushed us to stay in a hotel. Since we already bought camping food, we drove into Arches National Park, switched on our propane grill and cooked dinner…
Destination NW: Three Days in New Mexico
New Mexico is known as the “Land of Enchantment” and after one day we were spellbound. We visited Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Carlsbad Caverns National Park After going to the tallest point in Texas, we hiked a few hundred feet underground in New Mexico. The Carlsbad Caverns National Park is eerie…
Destination NW: Guadalupe Mountains National Park
As we drove deeper into west Texas, life started to move in slow motion. To breakup the drive to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, we spent a night in Marfa, Tx. En route, and through spotty cellphone service, we Googled potential campgrounds. El Cosmico promised “a second home to intrepid travelers and wanders from all corners…
Destination NW: Big Bend National Park
Our Austin hosts suggested we visit Fredericksburg, so we added the small town to our itinerary en route to Big Bend National Park. Founded in 1846 by a German family, Fredericksburg is a unique mix of German and western Texas culture. It is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. Driving into…
Destination NW: Dealing with Uncertainty
Dealing with uncertainty and transitions are not my strong suit. I’d be lying to you if I said I’m super stoked about our trek back to Washington. I’d be lying if I said my adventurous spirit was on fire. I’m not stoked and my fire resembles embers. Don’t get me wrong; I am absolutely looking…
Destination NW: Two Days in Austin
We are packed to the seams and hitting the road – destination Northwest. After four and a half years living in Hattiesburg, Miss., we are moving back to Washington State. During our travels, I’ll be posting about our stops and discoveries. The updates will likely be sporadic, as we are camping most of the trip…
Meaningful Media of 2016
Our world is an endless barrage of media- podcasts, social media, magazines, books, music- you name it. Media in itself isn’t vapid, but some messages certainly lack substance. These messages vie for our attention, and we can quickly squander our valuable time away. I seriously consider the potential virtual and mental clutter before subscribing to…
Things to Do in New Orleans for Christmas
New Orleans dances the line of artful expression and pure decadence. This dance is expressed through food, art, decor and fashion. During Christmastime, this dance fulfills childhood curiosity and reinvigorates holiday magic for adults. Witnessing the city’s creative expression helped me slow down and appreciate the season. Here are some highlights of how we kicked-off…