Category Archives: Activity

backpacking, hiking, National Parks, North America, Travel, Utah

Completing the Hike the Hoodoos Challenge

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I was at the Bryce Canyon National Park Visitor Center waiting for the park movie to start.   I am turning the pages of the hiking guide trying to decide what trail to hike.  A small article titled “Hike the Hoodoos Challenge.”  To complete the challenge, one needs do one of two things to hike at least 3 miles of on benchmark trails and/or collect a picture or rubbing of 3 benchmarks. Once completed return to the visitor center and collect “a special reward.”  It didn’t say what the award was or limit it to only kids.  Therefore, challenge accepted since I planned on hiking more than 3 miles. Continue Reading . . .

Activity, Caribbean, Domincia, SCUBA, Travel

Getting my Open water Diver Certification on the Nature Island

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I bounce up and down in my airline seat. I can’t wait to land on the Caribbean Island of Dominica. I am excited because while on Dominica I am going to get my PADI Open water Diver Certification. It is the first time I have been to the Caribbean since I discover SCUBA diving on our previous trip to Providenciales, Turks and Caicos. I have been looking forward to this trip for months. Continue Reading . . .

Colombia, hiking, South America, Travel

Hiking to the Indigenous of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

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I lean against a palm tree and try to even out my breathing. This mountain hike is a little more difficult than I planned. Not sure why. I knew hiking to visit with the Indigenous of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park wasn’t going to be easy. Beyond the small fence, a three young children play with each other. Two women supervise in the shade of their hut. I bring up my camera and take a few pictures from where I stand. I haven’t been granted permission to enter their homestead. My guide, Carlos, is talking to an older Mamo, leader. He has stopped into chat and see if there is any news from the nearby village. Continue Reading . . .

Activity, Florida, Manatee, North America, Snorkling, Travel, United States

Snorkeling with Florida Manatees at Crystal River

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It’s 6 am on a Saturday morning, and two of my freshman floormates and I are getting ready to make a two-hour drive.  It’s mid-January and even in Florida the temperature is a crisp 40 degrees Fahrenheit.  Despite the chilly weather, we are driving to Cyststal River to swim in Three Sisters Spring.  The weather isn’t conducive to swimming in a spring.  Even if said spring is a perfect 72 degrees Fahrenheit year around. Continue Reading . . .