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Whiskeytown Lake National Recreation Area: Nature, Paddleboards, and the Great Life Vest Crisis
Let’s talk about Northern California —the state's best-kept secret (and no, I’m not just saying that because the SoCal folks forget it...
Mai Smith-Trau
Jul 25, 20253 min read


Yellowstone Part 1: The Land of Geysers, Glory & Zero Cell Service
Let’s be honest— if Yellowstone isn’t on your bucket list, it’s probably because you forgot where you put your bucket. But seriously,...
Mai Smith-Trau
Jul 19, 20253 min read


Hot Springs Under Snowflakes: A Relaxation Adventure
Northern California is basically a jackpot for hot springs—Mother Nature’s personal spa service. Think natural Jacuzzis without the...
Mai Smith-Trau
Jul 12, 20252 min read


Grand Tetons – Part 2: Our Can’t-Miss Favorite Spots
Ever wonder where the best spots in Grand Teton National Park are for jaw-dropping views and frame-worthy photos? Whether you're chasing...
Mai Smith-Trau
Jul 5, 20253 min read


GRAND TETONS: Because Who Needs Wi-Fi Anyway?
Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I may earn a small...
Mai Smith-Trau
Jun 29, 20253 min read


Want to see CA state parks for free
PSA: California Is Basically Paying You to Touch Grass So I was doing some very responsible adulting —aka Googling how much it costs to...
Mai Smith-Trau
Jun 19, 20252 min read


From Couch to Castle: Our Magical (and Muddy) Road to RunDisney - Part 2
After spending a solid year working off decades of “fun” (read: snacks, celebrations, and zero regrets), I decided it was time to make my grand return to the RunDisney universe. So naturally, I went all in—signed myself, my husband, and our daughter up for a half marathon at Disneyland and the entire weekend of running events at Disney World’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon. Because why sign up for one punishing-yet-magical experience when you can double the blisters and medal
Mai Smith-Trau
Apr 20, 20252 min read


Will Run for Medals (and Mickey)- PART 1
I’ve been wanting to start a blog for years . Like, actual years. But I kept dragging my feet—mostly because I have too many passions and the internet kept shouting at me that I needed a niche. Spoiler alert: I still don’t have one. So instead of overthinking it any longer, I’ve decided to just share what I love: Disney, fur babies, and our new “passion”—running. And I say “running” in the loosest sense possible. Let’s be real: I’m in it for the bling. If there’s a shiny me
Mai Smith-Trau
Apr 13, 20251 min read
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