• Why Independence Day Is My Favorite Holiday: Fireworks, Family, and Summer Traditions
    Daily writing prompt
    What is your favorite holiday? Why is it your favorite?

    My favorite holiday is definitely Independence Day.

    Largely due to the fact that it falls so close to my birthday. When I was a kid, parades and fireworks seemed to show up right on schedule, and I secretly felt like the whole celebration was just for me.

    But the biggest reason Independence Day holds the top spot for me is fireworks. I absolutely love them. So does Chris – it was one of the first things we bonded over when we were dating, along with our shared love of hiking. To this day, fireworks are still one of our favorite traditions together.

    Every year, we host a big family celebration with a barbecue and our own fireworks show. we invite EVERYONE, provide the meat and drinks, and everyone pitches in with sides and desserts. It’s my favorite night of the year. It’s busy and chaotic and whole lotta fun.

    I also love it because it happens in the heart of summer, which is my favorite season. I prefer hot weather to cold, sunshine to snow, and long daylight hours to early nights. Summer feels energetic and alive, and Independence Day sits right in the middle of it all.

    Also, the more I have traveled internationally, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for living in America. Experiencing other places has helped me recognize just how many opportunities and freedoms we enjoy here. That awareness has grown into a genuine sense of gratitude, and Independence Day feels like a natural time to reflect on that.

    The Fourth of July is a mix of personal memories, family traditions, and everything I love about summer. It doesn’t get much better than that!

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  • Top 10 Countdown: Best Fireworks Displays in America for the 4th of July

    Anyone who has known me or Chris longer than a day knows I’m addicted to Diet Dr. Pepper, Chris is obsessed with pizza, and that we both love FIREWORKS. July is a busy month for us as Chris is part of a team of pyros that lights off city fireworks shows around Utah, but if we ever get the chance to travel on the 4th of July, here’s our top choices.

    #10 New Orleans — Go 4th on the River

    Dramatic fireworks over the Mississippi River with great food and a festive atmosphere.

    Expect it to be hot and humid and difficulty finding parking.

    Bring water and plan to walk.

    Estimated attendance: ~50,000-100,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Busy but still navigable.

    #9 Houston — Freedom Over Texas

    One of the largest land-based fireworks shows in a family-friendly festival environment.

    July heat can be intense, and note that tickets are required for the main viewing area.

    Expect a full-day event with concerts and activities before the fireworks begin.

    Estimated attendance: ~50,000

    How crowded it feels: Large festival crowd, but more contained than major coastal cities.

    #8 San Diego — Big Bay Boom

    California’s largest fireworks show in a beautiful waterfront setting.

    Traffic is notoriously heavy and hotels book far in advance.

    Arrive early or stay within walking distance.

    Estimated attendance: ~300,000-500,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Very crowded, but spread out along miles of waterfront.

    #7 Lake Tahoe — Lights on the Lake

    One of the most scenic fireworks shows in America with stunning reflections on the lake.

    Expect congestion on the roads and expensive lodging.

    Book accomodations months in advance.

    Estimated attendance: ~100,000-150,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Moderately crowded; traffic and parking are the biggest challenges.

    #6 Philadelphia — Wawa Welcome America Fireworks

    Philadelphia has deep historical significance and a patriotic atmosphere with concert and fireworks combined.

    Crowds can be intense and security lines are common.

    Use public transportation if possible.

    Estimated attendance: ~100,000-200,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Dense in the city center, especially near the main stage.

    #5 Washington D.C. — A Capitol Fourth

    A free event with fireworks over national monuments in an iconic patriotic setting.

    Expect long walking distances and security checkpoints.

    Bring comfortable shoes!

    Estimated attendance: ~500,000-700,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Extremely crowded with long walking distances and security lines.

    #4 Nashville — Let Freedom Sing! Music City

    One of the largest fireworks shows in the country synchronized with live symphony music in a high-energy atmosphere.

    This show uses roughly 40,000 pounds of explosives!

    Downtown crowds can feel overwhelming and there’s limited parking.

    Estimated attendance: ~240,000-250,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Packed downtown, shoulder-to-shoulder near the main viewing area.

    #3 Boston — Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

    Legendary concert and fireworks show set along the historic Charles River.

    There’s limited viewing space and you need to arrive very early.

    Bring chairs and snacks!

    Estimated attendance: Up to ~500,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Very dense; many people arrive hours early to secure a spot.

    #2 Las Vegas — Las Vegas Strip Fireworks

    Fireworks are launched from rooftops along the Strip in an electric, high-energy atmosphere with tons of entertainment options.

    It’s very hot in July and expensive during holiday weekends. Expect peak hotel prices.

    Estimated attendance: ~300,000-400,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Extremely crowded along the Strip especially near major hotels.

    #1 New York City — Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks

    The largest fireworks show in the United States with massive production and synchronized music.

    This show features tens of thousands of fireworks effects. A definite bucket-list experience!

    It’s extremely crowded with limited viewing areas. Arrive hours early for a good spot.

    Estimated attendance: ~3,000,000 people

    How crowded it feels: Massive crowds – the largest fireworks audience in the United States.

    If you love fireworks as much as we do, add these shows to your must-see list. They’ve been added to ours! Just make sure you plan ahead and be prepared!

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  • What We’d Do Differently Next Time Visiting California National Parks: Lessons from Our 2-Week Road Trip

    We absolutely loved our road trip through California’s top national parks. From desert landscapes to giant sequoias to granite cliffs and alpine lakes, the variety was incredible. It was one of the most memorable trips we’ve taken as a couple.

    But as with most trips, there are always a few things you learn along the way. There are small adjustments you’d make, places you’d spend more time, or experiences you’d approach a little differently.

    The good news is that most of the changes we’d make are minor tweaks, not major overhauls. Here are the key things we’d think about on a future visit.

    Joshua Tree National Park

    We’d actually keep this chunk of the trip pretty much the same. Our time there felt just right.

    The pacing was good, the hikes were manageable, even in the heat. The scenery was unique and memorable. We saw the highlights, revisited our favorite spots, and never felt rushed.

    If we returned, we might try one new trail or add another sunset stop—but overall, this portion of the trip was very well balanced.

    Cholla Cactus Garden at Joshua Tree National Park

    Sequoia National Park

    Our experience here was also felt well planned and satisfying. We saw the iconic trees, explored quieter areas, and we immersed ourselves in the old forest growth. The mix of short and long hikes worked perfectly for our energy level and schedule.

    On our next visit, we wouldn’t change much and keep the timeline and specific visits largely the same.

    General Sherman at Sequoia National Park

    Kings Canyon National Park

    Our visit to Kings Canyon National Park was limited by road closures, which meant we missed several places that were high on our list.

    Next time, we would plan to visit:

    • Zumwalt Meadow
    • Roaring River Falls
    • Grizzly Falls
    • Mist Falls

    These spots are known for beautiful scenery and relatively accessible hikes, and they would add a completely different dimension to the park experience.

    Imaginings of what we missed in Kings Canyon National Park

    We would also definitely revisit:

    Fallen Monarch, Grant Tree Grove, Kings Canyon National Park

    And if we returned to the Boole Tree, we’d simply be better prepared—with clearer directions, more time, and realistic expectations about the drive.

    Boole Tree, right outside Kings Canyon National Park

    Yosemite National Park

    Given how much we loved this park, it might surprise people to hear that we would have been happy with less time there. On our next trip, we’d plan to stay four nights instead of six.

    Not because there isn’t enough to do—but because we intentionally paced ourselves conservatively while preparing for our Half Dome hike. Since we did our best to avoid overly strenuous hikes and include recovery time, by the end of our visit, we felt like we’d had too much downtime.

    Next time, we’d streamline the schedule slightly and focus on a few specific experiences.

    Pohono Trail

    One hike that really stands out for a future visit is the Pohono Trail.

    This trail follows the rim of Yosemite Valley and connects several iconic viewpoints, and the ending at Tunnel View looked particularly intriguing to me. It’s longer and more challenging than many of the short hikes we did, so maybe we’d do this on a non-Half Dome trip.

    It’s the kind of hike that feels exciting rather than overwhelming, especially since most people do it one-way and get a ride back to their car at the end of the trail.

    Tenaya Lake

    If there’s one place we’d slow down and savor next time, it would be Tenaya Lake. We were blown away by its beauty and wished we’d known to plan for more time there.

    Next time, we would plan ahead to rent some kayaks or paddleboards and really get to enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots in the park.

    Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park

    Areas We’d Skip Due to Time Constraints

    If we shortened our stay, we would prioritize the highlights and skip a few stops that were enjoyable but not essential for us.

    These would include:

    I will say that Mariposa Grove did have my #1 favorite tree (Grizzly Giant), so I’d try to make the return trip. It’s just kind of far from everywhere else. So if time were tight, we would focus on Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Tenaya Lake instead.

    Grizzly Giant, Mariposa Grove, Yosemite National Park

    Lake Tahoe

    Our time at Lake Tahoe was beautiful and relaxing, but next time we’d add one specific adventure.

    We would love to kayak out to Fannette Island by Emerald Bay.

    It’s the only island in Lake Tahoe, and the small stone structure on the island makes it feel unique and historic. Paddling across the clear blue water to reach it would turn a scenic stop into a truly memorable experience.

    Emerald Bay with Fannette Island in the background, Lake Tahoe

    Even with the small adjustments we’d make, this trip was a smashing success. We explored deserts, walked among towering sequoias, climbed one of the most famous granite domes in the world, and ended our journey beside one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

    Next time, we’d make a few tweaks, add a couple new adventures, return to a few favorite places, and like always, immerse ourselves in nature’s grandeur.

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  • Papa Murphy’s | 40 Slices of Pizza: Slice #17

    Chris turned 40 at the end of 2025, and I wanted to do something special without throwing a big party that he wouldn’t appreciate. So I gave him what I knew he’d appreciate the most: 40 slices of pizza!

    Our seventeenth stop was: Papa Murphy’s
    5695 Harrison Blvd, South Ogden, UT 84403

    Limited Time Offering

    Papa Murphy’s was offering both garlic knots and Detroit-style pizza as a limited time offering. Detroit-style is my favorite style of pizza, and it’s rare to have it good, so I was eager to give it a try.

    Chris’s take on the Detroit-style was that it just tasted like regular Papa Murphy’s pizza but with double the dough. He also wished it had more sauce. I thought it was alright, but probably wouldn’t get it again. I didn’t love the crust base with the cornmeal.

    We both thought the garlic knots were pretty good, hopefully those stick around for a while.

    Papa Murphy’s Garlic Knots
    Papa Murphy’s Detroit-style Pepperoni Pizza

    Traditional Papa Murphy’s Pizza

    We also ordered a traditional style in case the Detroit-style was no good. So in additional to the pepperoni, we also got an original-style ham and pineapple. It was definitely better than the Detroit-style, but it’s nice to have some variety!

    The Score

    Chris rated the Original pizza a 6.4.
    His rating on the Detroit-style was 5.7.

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  • 2-Week California National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: Joshua Tree, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite & Lake Tahoe

    This was the ultimate road trip—hauling a trailer through four California national parks and ending at beautiful Lake Tahoe. Over 14 days, we explored deserts, giant sequoia forests, granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and one unforgettable summit hike.

    Below is our exact day-by-day itinerary, including drive times, hikes, meals, and pacing. If a restaurant isn’t specifically mentioned, we ate food we packed. And if hiking mileage isn’t listed, the walking was minimal.

    Duration: 14 days
    Parks visited: 4 National Parks + Lake Tahoe
    Driving distance: ~2,500 miles
    Longest hike: Half Dome (~20 miles)
    Travel style: Trailer camping + park exploration

    Day 1: Drive to Joshua Tree National Park

    8:00AM – Left home for an 10.5-hour drive to Joshua Tree National Park

    • Pack snacks and drinks
    • Plan bathroom breaks every 2-3 hours

    5:30 PM – Check in to the campground

    6:30 PM – We ate dinner at Sky High Pie

    Day 2: Explore Joshua Tree National Park

    6:00 AM – Left campground to head for the Cholla Cactus Garden

    10: 00 AM – Left the park to check out the Joshua Tree Visitor Center

    12:00 PM – Lunch and siesta

    3:00 PM – Left campground to revisit the Cholla Cactus Garden

    6:00 PM – Left the park to get dinner

    7:00 PM – We ate dinner at Joshua Tree Saloon

    Day 3: Drive to Sequoia National Park

    7:00 AM – Packed up campground and left for a 5-hour drive to Sequoia National Park

    • We ate breakfast and lunch on the road

    12:00 PM – Check in to the campground and set up by 2:00 PM

    2:00 PM – Head for the Visitor Center before closing at 4:00 PM

    • Get maps and advice for hiking trails

    4:00 PM – Sequoia National Park Sneak Peek

    6:30 PM – Head back to camp

    Day 4: Explore Sequoia National Park

    8:00 AM – Leave campground and head to Sequoia National Park

    9:00 AM – Arrival at Moro Rock

    • 0.5-mile out-and-back
    • 177 ft elevation gain up steep stairs
    • Panoramic views

    9:45 AM – Begin Crescent Meadow/Trail of the Sequoias

    • Depending on the path you choose, can be a shorter or longer hike. The path we took ended up by a 7-mile loop through old and uncrowded majestic Sequoias. The trail we took also had some crossover with the Congress Trail.

    12:30 PMTunnel Log – a fallen tree you can drive under

    12:45 PMHanging Rock

    • 0.5-mile out-and-back
    • 111 ft elevation gain
    • Great view of Moro Rock

    1:15 PMPicnic

    3:00 PM Congress Tree Trail and General Sherman

    • Congress Tree Trail is accessible from the General Sherman tree, and highlights some of the largest sequoias, including the President Tree, McKinley Tree, and the House and Senate tree clusters.
    • The trail is a 2.7-mile loop – much of it was a repeat of our morning hike.

    4:15 PMBig Tree Trail

    • Beautiful, lush, and easy meadow loop with interpretive signs.
    • Accessible parking allows for a 0.7-mile loop, otherwise parking at the nearby museum makes it a 1.5-mile loop. Chris dropped me off at the accessible parking area so I could do the loop real quick on my own.

    5:00 PM – Left the park to head back to camp

    Day 5: Drive to Kings Canyon National Park

    11:00 AM – SLEEP IN! We packed up the campground and left for a 1.5-hour drive to Kings Canyon National Park

    1:30 PM Left campground and headed to the Boole Tree

    • 6th largest sequoia tree in the world
    • Location outside the National Park Boundary

    4:45 PM -Sneak peek of Grant Grove and the Fallen Monarch

    6:00 PM – Left the park to head back to camp

    Day 6: Explore Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park

    Most of the Kings Canyon side was closed due to road damage on Highway 180.

    8:30 AM – Left campground and headed to Tokopah Falls (on the Sequoia side)

    9:30 AM – Hike to Tokopah Falls

    • My favorite spot in the park and a moderate 3.4-5 mile out-and-back (mileage depending on parking)

    12:00 PM – Picnic and revisit to Big Trees Trail

    2:00 PM – Revisit to Grant Grove and the Fallen Monarch

    • The General Grant tree is the 2nd largest sequoia in the world

    2:45 PM – Visit the Big Stump

    • Remains of the once Mark Twain Tree

    3:30 PM -Left the park to head back to camp

    6:00 PM – Dinner at Gena’s Sierra Inn

    Day 7: Drive to Yosemite National Park

    11:00 AM – SLEEP IN! We packed up the campground and left for a 2.5-hour drive to Yosemite National Park

    This was a chill day. After setting up campground, we didn’t have any specific plans until the next day.

    Day 8: Explore Yosemite National Park

    9:00 AM – Arrive at the Wawona Swinging Bridge

    10:40 AM – Arrive at Mariposa Grove

    • Home of the Grizzly Giant sequoia tree – 26th largest sequoia tree in the world, but 1st favorite in my heart

    1:00 PMGlacier Point

    • Great view of the Half Dome

    2:30 PM – Start Taft Point hike

    4:20 PMBridalveil Falls

    Back to campground – ate dinner at Parkside Pizza

    Day 9: Explore Yosemite National Park

    10:00 AM – Arrive at Tuolumne Meadows and hiked the Soda Springs

    11:45 AM – Arrive at Tenaya Lake and enjoy the stunning scenery

    12:15 PM Olmsted Point and stop and enjoy the view

    1:00 PM – Start the May Lake High Sierra Camp trail

    Back to campground

    Day 10: Explore Yosemite National Park

    10:15 AMTuolumne Grove Trailhead

    3:20 PMMcGurk Meadow Cabin trail

    4:10 PMTunnel View and enjoy the scenery

    Day 11: Explore Yosemite National Park – take it easy day

    10:30 AMYosemite Valley

    • Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
    • Cook’s Meadow
    • Superintendent’s Bridge
    • Sentinel Bridge
    • Swinging Bridge (doesn’t really swing, and it was PACKED)

    3:15 PM – view of El Capitan

    Day 12: HALF DOME

    4:30 AM – WAKE UP! Fuel and find parking with plans to get to the Mist Trail BEFORE 7:00 am (it was closed between 7-3)

    • We parked near the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center, about a third of a mile from the trailhead.

    8:00 AM – Got to Nevada Falls (wanted to get there by 9 AM)

    9:00 AM – Got to Little Yosemite Valley (wanted to get there by 10 AM)

    12:00 PMCables (wanted to get there by 1:00 PM)

    12:30 PMAt the Top! (wanted to get there by 1:30 PM)

    1:30 PM – Subdome (wanted to get there by 2:30 PM)

    Returned the John Muir way

    5:00 PM – Heading to Ahwanhee (wanted to be there by 6 PM)

    6:00 PM – Ate at Ahwahnee

    Headed to camp and showered and went to bed utterly exhausted!

    Day 13: Drive to Lake Tahoe

    7:00 AM – We packed up the campground and left for a 5-hour drive to Lake Tahoe

    3:00 PMEagle Falls

    3:30 PMEmerald Bay Inspiration Point

    4:10 PMTaylor Creek Boardwalk/Rainbow Trail and Tallac Historic Site

    5:30 PMLogan Shoals Vista Point

    Ate at Tahoe Tavern & Grill

    Day 14: Drive Home

    7:00 AM – We packed up the campground and left for a 9-hour drive home

    We did stop in Wendover and got to get in some practice on the Blackjack we’d been practicing.

    6:00 PM – Home and happy to see pups and babies!

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  • Ultimate Packing List for a California National Parks Road Trip: Joshua Tree, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite & Lake Tahoe

    I made this list as THOROUGH and helpful as I could, and there are links to recipes and more indepth guides throughout.

    Trailer vs Tent Camping Packing List

    If You Are Staying in a Trailer or RV

    Sleeping & Comfort
    • Bedding or sleeping bags
    • Pillows
    • Extra blankets (mountain nights get cold)
    • Camp chairs
    • Outdoor rug or mat
    Kitchen
    • Paper towels
    • Dish soap
    • Sponge
    • Trash bags
    • Aluminum foil
    • Ziplock bags
    • Reusable water bottles
    Personal Items
    • Toiletries
    • Towels
    • Shower shoes
    • Laundry bag
    • Flip flops
    Nice-to-Have
    • Extension cord
    • Power strip
    • Leveling blocks
    • Bug spray
    • Sunscreen

    If You Are Tent Camping

    Shelter
    • Tent
    • Tent stakes
    • Ground tarp or footprint
    • Rain fly
    • Mallet
    Sleeping
    • Sleeping bags
    • Sleeping pads or air mattress
    • Pump (battery or manual)
    • Pillows
    • Extra blankets
    Cooking
    • Camp stove
    • Fuel
    • Lighter or matches
    • Cooking pot
    • Frying pan
    • Cooking utensils
    • Plates / bowls / cups
    • Cutting board
    • Knife
    • Cooler
    Camp Setup
    • Camp chairs
    • Lantern
    • Headlamps
    • Tablecloth
    • Dish bin
    • Drying towel
    Safety
    • First aid kit
    • Bear spray (where allowed)
    • Headlamp
    • Extra batteries

    Food Planning for the Whole Trip

    • Breakfast: DIY
    • Lunch: DIY / picnic
    • Dinner:
      • Eat out 6 nights
      • Cook 7–8 nights
        • Rotate meals:
          • Cheddarwursts
          • Mac & cheese
          • Nachos

    Breakfast Foods to Pack

    Easy, fast, minimal cleanup.

    • Bagels and cream cheese
    • Poptarts
    • Granola bars
    • Bananas

    Lunch Foods for Picnics Inside National Parks

    Cooler Items
    • Sandwich meat
    • Cheese slices
    • Lettuce
    • Tomato (make sure you have a knife for slicing)
    • Mayo / mustard
    • Baby carrots
    • Grapes
    • String cheese
    • Sodas/waters/Gatorade
    Pantry Items
    • Bread
    • Chips
    • Trail mix
    • Peanut butter and jelly

    Dinner Foods to Pack (7–8 Nights)

    Cheddarwurst Nights
    • Cheddarwursts
    • Hot dog buns
    • Condiments
    • Chips
    Mac & Cheese Nights
    • Pre-made and pre-prepped gourmet Mac & Cheese to be tossed in the fire
    Nacho Nights
    • Can opener
    • Tortilla chips
    • Shredded cheese
    • Steak
    • Olives
    • Corn
    • Tomatoes
    • Sour cream
    • Guacamole
    S’mores
    • Graham Crackers
    • Marshmallows
    • Chocolate
    Pantry Staples That Make Life Easier
    • Salt
    • Pepper
    • Cooking oil
    • Aluminum foil
    • Paper towels
    • Dish soap
    • Trash bags

    What to Pack for the Half Dome Hike

    Backpack (Hydration Pack)

    Water
    • 3 liters per person
    Food
    • Trail mix
    • Protein bars
    • Sandwich
    • Gatorade
    Gear
    • Sunscreen
    • Sunglasses
    • Hat
    • Gloves for cables
    • Compostable toilet tissue
    • Hand sanitizer
    • Phone or map
    • Permit
    • Photo ID
    • Portable phone charging bank
    • Headphones
    Safety
    • First aid kit
    • Water filtration system
    • Headlamp or flashlight
    • Lightweight jacket
    • Trekking poles (optional)
    • Climbing harness (optional)

    What to WEAR on Half Dome Day

    • Lightweight moisture-wicking shirt
    • Hiking pants
    • Good hiking shoes
    • Wool hiking socks
    • Hat
    • Sunglasses

    Morning in Yosemite can be 40–50°F

    Afternoon can be 80°F

    Have layers available.

    What to Have Waiting in the Car Between Hikes

    Recovery Kit

    • Cooler with COLD drinks and Gatorade
    • Snacks
    • Protein bars

    Comfort Items

    • Clean shirt
    • Clean socks
    • Sandals or flip flops
    • Baby wipes
    • Towel

    Emergency Supplies

    • Extra water
    • Blanket
    • First aid kit
    • Phone charger

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  • Blaze Pizza | 40 Slices of Pizza: Slice #16

    Chris turned 40 at the end of 2025, and I wanted to do something special without throwing a big party that he wouldn’t appreciate. So I gave him what I knew he’d appreciate the most: 40 slices of pizza!

    Our sixteenth stop was: Blaze Pizza
    260 N University Ave, Farmington, UT 84025

    I had a hard time convincing Chris to come here, because the last time we came I was on a health kick and ordered cauliflower dough for myself. I had ordered pizzas for us online and we picked up and ate in person, and apparently in addition to the cauliflower pizza for myself, I had accidentally ordered a pizza for Chris that had no cheese. He was NOT pleased! I promised we’d order more wisely this time!

    Pizza Deal

    On this visit, they were doing a 5 for $35 deal that ending up working out great for us. I didn’t know about the deal, but the cashier told me about it when I added a 5th menu item on a whim (cinnamon bread). It ended up saving us about $17, so it was a good deal.

    The Pizza

    We got some cheesy bread to start – it had a charred taste to it, and I didn’t like it, but Chris did. He liked the charred flavor. I bet I would have liked it more with the high rise dough.

    Blaze cheesy bread

    We got a Four Cheese pizza with the original crust for the kids. It was too light on the mozzarella and would have been better without ricotta. I think next time, we’d opt for just a regular cheese pizza for the kids.

    Blaze Four Cheese Pizza

    Both me and Chris paid an extra $3 for our pizzas to get the high rise crust. I ended up thinking it was worth the extra cost – I liked it way more than the original crust pizzas I’ve had from this place in the past. I got plain pepperoni, and Chris got mushrooms, salami, ham, and olives. The toppings were pretty good, but we felt like it needed better cheese.

    Blaze Pepperoni on high rise crust
    Blaze Salami, mushroom, ham, and olive on high rise crust

    The Dessert

    As mentioned, I got the cinnamon bread on a whim, and it was a good choice! It was very good!

    Blaze Cinnamon Bread

    The Score

    Chris rated his pizza a 6.3.
    His rating on the Four Cheese pizza however was a 5.7.

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    Click here for a complete listing of all 40 pizzas we rated!

  • Lake Tahoe in One Day: Easy Scenic Stops After Yosemite and Half Dome

    We didn’t get much time to recover after our hike to Half Dome before packing everything up and heading home. But we didn’t want to do the whole 12+ hours drive in one day. Plus, after such an epic adventure, it’s hard to call it quits!

    So we ended up stopping in Lake Tahoe for one last adventure. It was just under a five-hour drive from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe, and we got to enjoy passing through Tioga Road again.

    People had told me for years that I would LOVE Lake Tahoe. I’ve heard it called a bigger and better version of Bear Lake. Here’s the thing though, me and Chris aren’t really water people. I’m terrified of going too deep underwater, and Bear Lake is known for being super deep. It freaks me out! They even have a Loch Ness-type lake monster legend called the Bear Lake Monster.

    My family has traveled to Bear Lake several times, and I guess I always figured Lake Tahoe couldn’t possibly be anything special in comparison. So this last-chance adventure was a perfect opportunity to see what all the hype was about. We were not disappointed! We’d love to return again one day.

    Where We Stayed

    Zephyr Cove Resort | 760 US HWY 50, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448

    This was a beautiful campground, and it was very close to the lake. We only stayed one night, but we wouldn’t have minded staying longer.

    We did wish the RV spots were spaced further apart. It gets a bit nerve-wracking parking when the spaces are too close together. Also, the bathroom toilets are made of metal and ICE COLD. Not my favorite sensation, haha!

    Where We Ate

    Tahoe Tavern & Grill | 219 Kingsbury Grade Rd, Stateline, NV 89449

    I felt like destiny intervened to bring me to this place for the specific meal I had. I tried the $16 special – Asiago Stuffed Toasted Gnocchi. I have never liked gnocchi when I’ve tried it before this visit, so trying it was a risk. But it paid off! It was an appetizer, which made it perfectly sized for me, and it was DELICIOUS! I scraped every bit out of the cute little cast iron skillet it came in.

    Chris also enjoyed his ham and pineapple pizza (of course), and we shared the Signature Bread Pudding for dessert.

    Things to Do

    Lake Tahoe is HUGE and there’s tons of options for things to do. There’s even a casino that we tried to stop at to test out our blackjack strategies we’d practiced while camping. Unfortunately, we never found a cheap enough Blackjack table, so we skipped gambling on this trip.

    Instead, we focused on finding things to do that were LOW EFFORT. We were still tired and sore from our 20-mile hike to Half Dome done just yesterday.

    Eagle Falls

    This was a short hike of 1/4 miles to a fun bridge and waterfall. There were lots of stairs, but it was worth the effort. It was BEAUTIFUL!

    Chris on the Bridge at Eagle Falls

    It does not have a view of Lake Tahoe, but it was beautiful nonetheless. It was hard to find parking. It’s normally $5 to park, but our National Parks interagency pass covered the fee.

    Inspiration Point Emerald Bay

    Parking here if $5-$10 depending on if you stay under or over 30 minutes. However, you can park across the street or use one of many pullouts along the road for free if you’re making a quick stop.

    It was a beautiful view of Emerald Bay and the Fannette Island Tea House. There were several informational signs explaining the history of the tea house, which was built in 1929 by a wealthy Tahoe resident named Lora Knight. She used it to host afternoon tea gatherings for her guests.

    Today, the structure still stands, but it is now a historic ruin.

    Emerald Bay Viewpoint with Fannette Island in the background

    You can visit the island if you really want to — but only by kayak, paddleboard, or canoe. There is no ferry or walking access, and you can’t get tea there anymore.

    Even so, it’s a fascinating piece of history to see from afar, and I’d love to kayak there one day when my body is not weary from hiking.

    It was a great view of the very beautiful Emerald Bay — but would I call it inspiring? Well, maybe if there weren’t quite so many trees in the way blocking part of the view.

    Still definitely worth the stop, especially when you’re looking for something low effort during recovery.

    Tallac Historic Site

    The museum was closed when we visited, but it was still a pleasant walk around the grounds reading about the history of the site.

    This area used to be a luxurious summer resort community in the early 1900s, and today it includes restored historic estates, gardens, walking paths, and beach access.

    Even without going inside the museum, it was interesting to explore the property and learn about what life looked like for wealthy vacationers in Lake Tahoe more than a century ago.

    Access to the grounds is free, and when the museum is open during the summer season, admission is typically around $10–$15 for adults.

    Rainbow Trail/Taylor Creek Boardwalk

    The Rainbow Trail is a 1/2 mile loop that is paved and easy to walk and very family-friendly. Along the trail, you can see wetland and meadow ecosystems, flowing creek habitats, wildlife areas, and seasonal salmon spawning (in the fall).

    Funny caterpillar we saw on the Taylor Creek Boardwalk- I later found out it’s a Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar

    We joined the Taylor Creek Boardwalk from the Rainbow Trail for a little bit longer of a stroll through the peaceful meadow and wetland area.

    It was a nice enough and easy enough stroll, but if your time in Lake Tahoe is limited, there are more dramatic views to be enjoyed.

    Logan Shoals Vista Point

    This was probably my favorite spot of all the places we visited in Lake Tahoe. We came right before sunset, right at that tricky time of day where the sun has a way of ruining photos – so our pictures don’t do it justice.

    Logan Shoals Vista Point- if we hadn’t been so tired and sore I would have loved to climb these rocks
    Standing in front of a tree blocking the sun attempting to get a good photo
    Beautiful view of Lake Tahoe from Logan Shoals Vista Point
    Panorama of Lake Tahoe from Logan Shoals Vista Point

    There isn’t a formal parking lot here, just space along the side of the road. But it’s a fantastic place to pull over, step out of the car, and quietly enjoy the stunning views of Lake Tahoe. If I hadn’t been so gosh darn tired, I’d have loved to stay and explore more.

    Up Next

    After our one-night stay in Lake Tahoe, we made the remaining eight-hour journey home and were very excited to see the kids and pups!

    Stopping in Lake Tahoe turned out to be the perfect way to wrap up our adventure. It gave us a chance to slow down, stretch our legs, and enjoy a few more beautiful views before returning to real life.

    In the next posts, I’ll provide the ultimate packing list for this trip, the complete itinerary for the full Road to Half Dome adventure, and tips for visiting four California National Parks in one unforgettable journey.

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  • Yosemite Legends: The Stories, Meanings, and Pronunciations Behind Yosemite’s Most Iconic Landmarks

    One thing I love to do when visiting a new place is to try to immerse myself in its culture and learn about is origins. I love hearing the legends behind the names and learning how a place came to be.

    These names might look unusual at first, but each one has a story rooted in the people who lived here long before Yosemite became a national park.

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    Unique Yosemite Names

    Yosemite – from the Miwok people, this is often interpreted as “they are killers” or “those who kill,” a name given to the Ahwahneechee by neighboring tribes.

    Ahwahnee (pronounced Ah-wah-nee) – this is the original name used by the Ahwahneechee people in referring to the shape of Yosemite Valley. It roughly means “big mouth” or “gaping valley.”

    Tuolumne (pronounced Too-ALL-um-nee) This name likely comes from a Miwok word referring to a group of people or a place along the river. It can mean “people of the stone houses” or “those who dwell by the river.”

    Wawona – a Miwok word thought to mean “big tree” and often associated with the giant sequoias.

    Pohono – another Miwok word associated with powerful winds. It is often translated as “evil wind” or “spirit of the evil wind.

    I actually ended up buying a book called Legends of the Yosemite Miwok to learn more.

    Yosemite Legends

    The Legend of Tis-se’-yak (Half Dome)

    I love this kind of origin story. This is the legend of how Half Dome came to be.

    Since Chris and I loved our hike to Half Dome so much, I find it a little sad that its origin story involved a quarrel between a husband and wife. After experiencing something so special together, I naturally wish the story had a more uplifting ending.

    According to Miwok legend, Half Dome was once a woman named Tis-se’-yak. After quarreling with her husband, the Great Spirit turned them both into stone. Tis-se’-yak’s face is frozen forever, stained by long, dark lines from her tears.

    Her husband turned into North Dome, and the basket Tis-se’-yak carried became the Basket Dome.

    Half Dome, North Dome, and Basket Dome origin story

    The Spirits of Po-ho-no (Bridalveil Falls)

    Bridalveil Falls is tied to the spirit of Po-ho-no, a force associated with powerful, swirling winds.

    The mist at the base of the waterfall was believed to carry spiritual energy — and not always benevolent.

    Even today, the wind near the falls can feel unexpectedly strong and unpredictable.

    How Ah-ha’-le Created People

    In Miwok tradition, the creator figure Ah-ha’-le, the Coyote, formed the first people in Yosemite. After discussions with Frog, Duck, Lizard, and others, Coyote thought it was best to create people with hands and feet like Lizard’s so they could do useful things. Coyote assigned all creatures a specific place to live.

    I love stories like this that I can relate to origin stories I learned growing up. This story definitely reminds me of Adam and Eve. It makes me feel connected in a way to the Yosemite natives who formed these legends.

    How Ah-ha’-le Stole the Sun

    One legend tells how Ah-ha’-le, the Coyote, brought light to the valley.

    The sun was hidden away, and the people lived in darkness. Through cleverness and determination, Ah-ha’-le stole the sun and released it into the sky to be shared — bringing light, warmth, and life to Yosemite.

    The Legend of Tu-tok-a-nu’-la (El Capitan)

    El Capitan is known in Miwok legend as Tu-tok-a-nu’-la, named in honor of Tul-tak-a-na, the inchworm. He rescued two bear cubs from the top of a large boulder after many others had failed.

    Today, it remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Yosemite.

    Why These Stories Matter

    It’s easy to visit Yosemite and focus only on the scenery. But for me, knowing the legends behind it adds to the awe-inspiring beauty of the trees, granite, and surroundings. It reminds me that Yosemite Valley was not simply discovered. It was known, named, and loved long before we ever arrived.

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  • Pizza Hut | 40 Slices of Pizza: Slice #15

    Chris turned 40 at the end of 2025, and I wanted to do something special without throwing a big party that he wouldn’t appreciate. So I gave him what I knew he’d appreciate the most: 40 slices of pizza!

    Our fifteenth stop was: Pizza Hut
    4789 Harrison Blvd, Ogden, UT 84403

    Tragic Downfall

    Pizza Hut is just not what it used to be. That seems to be true of many old favorites, which begs the question of: Is my adult palate just so much more sophisticated than it used to be? Or has Pizza Hut really gone downhill this much?

    As a kid, Pizza Hut was the unattainable ideal – it was just too expensive. Then when they came out with Stuffed Crust? There was nothing better! Pizza Hut was the first to bring stuffed crust to the masses, back in 1995.

    The P’zone

    When me and Chris were first dating, he worked within walking distance of this Pizza Hut, and he’d often get a P’zone on his lunch break. He loved those P’zones and he was devastated when they were removed from the menu. Then sometime around 2019 ish, Pizza Hut brought them back! Chris was like a kid at Christmas – I have rarely seen him so excited. It was really sad watching him eagerly taste the long-awaited P’zone just to see his dreams dashed when it wasn’t made with the same quality and love that it was back in 2012 ish.

    Anyway, so it was a hard sell bringing Chris to Pizza Hut. He had felt betrayed and didn’t care to ever return – but I felt like if he was going to be a serious pizza rater, he needed to rate the OG Stuffed Crust Pizza.

    Harrison Blvd Location

    This particular location does not get a lot of love on Google Maps reviews, so we came expecting the worst. As far as the location goes though, the drive thru services was convenient and quick, and the employee who helped us out through the window was very nice.

    The Pizza

    We ordered the Garlic Cheese Sticks to start – they were nothing special. We got one Stuffed Crust pizza with half cheese and half pepperoni. We ordered it with extra cheese – and by the way, no need to do that. There was so much cheese it reminded me of A Goofy Movie pizza. We also ordered the original pan pizza with ham and pineapple.

    A Goofy Movie cheese pizza reminiscent of Pizza Hut
    Pizza Hut Garlic Cheese Sticks

    The cheese itself was rubbery and weird and tasted cheap, made worse by the fact that there was so much of it. The sauce is also just not good. I did actually like the pepperoni itself, not all pepperoni is created equal. Chris much preferred the Hawaiian pizza as he said the toppings masked the taste of the weird sauce and cheese.

    Pizza Hut Stuffed Crust half cheese half pepperoni
    Pizza Hut Original Pan Hawaiian

    The Score

    Chris was unimpressed and borderline angry as he gave his score. Though I didn’t think it was as bad as Chris did, I will agree it’s the worst pizza we’ve had in a while.

    Chris rated his pizza a 4.7, the lowest score he’s ever given.

    It really is a tragic downfall. As a kid, I never dreamed I’d see the day when Little Caesar’s would outpizza the Hut.

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    Click here for a complete listing of all 40 pizzas we rated!