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I messed up!
Blaze and I were having a great time exploring the area near Bryce Canyon National Park when I realized that I desperately needed an oil change (among a handful of other chores). So, we set off to find the nearest quick lube. But unfortunately, it was 1.5 hours away in the opposite direction that I…
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A Dog-Friendly Adventure at Petrified Forest National Park
My aunt, who is a pastel artist, told me to check out this place. She participated in an artist residency, and said it was beautiful! So, I knew I couldn’t pass it up. And really, I think you can’t go wrong with visiting any of the national parks. They are all unique with their diverse…
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We lost the trail!
Blaze and I both love a good obstacle course. There’s something about them that makes you be in the moment, which allows everything else (all of the worry, decision fatigue, and safety concerns fall away). I guess because you’re always thinking about where your next foot placement or foothold will be, as well as your…
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An unexpected hidden gem
This is one of our top favorite hikes thus far! The Catwalk National Recreation Trail in the Gila National Forest is a little hidden gem. It feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere, because it is. We visited during the week, which is probably why we didn’t see very many people—ah, one of the…
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Blaze, the professional
When I set out to adopt a dog, I never thought I would become their cheerleader. In her three years by my side, Blaze has spent time romping around in countless rivers and streams, but not fast-moving ones like these. Nor has she been in deep water except for when I took her paddleboarding once.…
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like sprinkled brittle breadcrumbs
Some places capture your heart like your first crush and then they never let go. This is one of those places for me. I could come back here again, and again. I love how: The surrounding mountain ranges rise up out of nowhere like a well-timed geyser. The angular points of the mountain peaks painted…
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It’s her Gotcha Day!
Every year, when Blaze’s Gotcha Day rolls around, I plan a fun little outing for us. This year, we found ourselves camped just outside of White Sands National Park. Luckily, this is one of the few parks where dogs are allowed almost everywhere, as long as they’re on a leash. So, we spent some time…
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This is 48.
It’s become a tradition for me to spend my birthday on a trail. I’ve gone backpacking a handful of times since this all started. And today was no different. I made it a point to visit the Grand Canyon National Park the week of my birthday (back in May). While there, Blaze and I did…
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A Weekend in Big Bend National Park
I have always wanted to come here. But, it’s in the middle of nowhere, literally nowhere — it even says so in their literature. Lucky for me, I snagged a campsite but only for one night, everything else was booked. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by no one, which was a complete surprise since…
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When Van Life Takes an Unexpected Turn: My Breast Cancer Scare
On February 2nd, Blaze and I left NC and headed southwest. That was until a week later when my doctor called. I have to return to my home base for a diagnostic mammogram and possibly an ultrasound. We turned around and slowly made our trek back home. It was only 4 hours but it felt…
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Michelle and Blaze 