#40in40


 Epic Adventures & Unique Firsts

    1. Snorkeled the Tectonic Plates, Iceland – Experienced the surreal moment of floating between two continents in crystal-clear, icy waters.

    2. Devoured an Icelandic Hot Dog – Tried the iconic Icelandic lamb hot dog loaded with mustard, Remolaði sauce, fried and raw onions, and their famous ketchup sweetened with apples. Who knew onions could be tolerable?

    3. Got International Ink – Inked with meaningful designs in Iceland and Cancun to carry memories everywhere I go.

    4. Swam with Dolphins – Made new aquatic friends in the stunning waters of Grand Cayman.

    5. Explored Chichen Itza – Wandered through ancient Mayan history and soaked in the wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    6. Swam in a Cenote – Took the plunge into the crystal-clear underground pools of Cancun, Mexico.

    7. Visited Isla Mujeres – Relaxed on the island's pristine beaches and enjoyed the stunning turquoise waters.

    8. Conquered the Rocks – Climbed to the top of an indoor rock climbing wall at Trout Lake Camp for the first time, proving that grit and determination are just as important as strength.

    9. Balanced on Milk Crates – Tested balance and nerve with a milk crate stacking challenge.

    10. Sipped tea at the First Starbucks – Visited the birthplace of the coffee empire in Seattle.

    11. Explored Olympic National Park – Witnessed diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines.

    12. Threw a Fish at Pike Place Market – Participated in Seattle’s most iconic market tradition.

    13. Stood in Awe at the Hoh Rain Forest – Immersed in the ethereal beauty of Washington’s temperate rainforest.

    14. Marveled at the Tree of Life – Found wonder in nature’s resilience and beauty.

    15. Visited the Grand Ole Opry – Stepped into the heart of country music history in Nashville.

    16. Attended the Twins’ Home Opener – Cheered for the home team at an unforgettable game.

    17. Experienced a Nude Beach – Took a bold leap at a beach in Manitoba, Canada.

    18. Conquered the Manitou Incline, Colorado – Tackled all 2,768 infamous steps of this sky-high stairway, gaining over 2,000 feet of elevation in under a mile. The climb was brutal, but the jaw-dropping views made every step worth it!

    19. Hiked and Photographed Maroon Bells, Colorado – Trekked through scenic trails to capture the iconic reflection of the Rockies on serene alpine lakes. Every step was like walking through a postcard.

    20. Explored Arches National Park, Utah – Wandered rugged trails to marvel at nature's stunning sandstone arches, with every bend revealing a new masterpiece carved by time.

    21. Discovered Bucee’s, Colorado – Explored this legendary travel stop for snacks, souvenirs, and fun. Best sweet tea in CO.

    22. Explored Canyonlands National Park – Roamed through dramatic landscapes and endless horizons.

    23. Visited Garden of the Gods – Marveled at towering red rock formations and sweeping vistas while cruising on an E-bike!

    24. Rode a Banana Boat in Clearwater Beach – Skimmed the waves in Florida, and almost lost my swimsuit in the process!

    25. SkyWheel at Myrtle Beach – Enjoyed incredible views of the coastline from above.

    26. Stayed in Hostels – Embraced minimalist and community living while exploring Colorado, Utah, and Costa Rica.

    27. Saw Hootie & the Blowfish Live – Sang along to the classics at their concert in Charlotte, NC.

    28. Adopted a Kitten – Gave a forever home to Sunnie, who’s not a foster fail but a perfect addition.

    29. Survived Hell Week at OTF – Powered through grueling workouts with determination and sweat.

    30. Got “Electrocuted” at Señor Frogs – Took on the quirky Cancun tradition of a jolt with a shot. I laughed so hard I almost peed my pants. 

    31. Ate Octopus – Conquered culinary curiosity in Cancun, Mexico.

    32. Raced ATVs Through the Jungle – Felt the thrill of speed and mud in Cancun, Mexico.

    33. Carved a Turkey at Thanksgiving – Took on the centerpiece of the feast with skill.

    34. Made Japanese Cheesecake – Mastered the art of baking this fluffy, jiggly dessert that’s as light as a cloud and melts in your mouth.

    35. Embarked on a Solo International Trip – Ventured solo to Costa Rica and soaked in the freedom of independent travel.

    36. Witnessed a Turtle Eco-Tour – Watched turtles in their natural habitat during an unforgettable experience.

    37. Slept in a Pipe – Stayed in a quirky pipehouse hostel in Playa Grande, Costa Rica.

    38. Tried Surfing – Rode (and wiped out on) waves in Playa Grande, Costa Rica.

    39. Watched a Turtle Lay Eggs – Witnessed the wonder of new life on a Costa Rican beach.

    40. Got Stung by a Jellyfish – Took the pain in stride as a badge of beach bravery. Asked my guide to pee on me but he got stage fright! 

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