Category Archives: On The Run

One Week in Madrid: Tapas, Palaces, and Late Nights

We’ve officially spent our first week in Madrid, and it’s safe to say this city knows how to charm. From royal landmarks to 12 a.m. dinners, our time here has been a vibrant blur of culture, laughter, and culinary indulgence. Here’s a look at what we’ve been up to:

Staying on Gran Vía: In the Heart of It All
Our home base for the past week has been right off Gran Vía—Madrid’s answer to Broadway, the Champs-Élysées, and Fifth Avenue all rolled into one. This bustling boulevard is packed with theaters, shops, restaurants, and stunning architecture. The energy is constant, but it’s not overwhelming—just lively enough to remind you that you’re in the center of it all. From here, we’ve been able to walk nearly everywhere. It’s truly the perfect location for soaking in the city.

Inside the Royal Palace of Madrid
One of the standout experiences this week was our visit to the Royal Palace—an opulent reminder of Spain’s regal history. This is the largest palace in Western Europe by floor area, and it shows. We explored grand halls adorned with chandeliers, intricate tapestries, and rooms that looked like they were frozen in time. Outside, the views of the courtyard and the surrounding gardens were just as impressive.

Exploring Plaza Mayor
Of course, no visit to Madrid is complete without a stroll through Plaza Mayor. This iconic square has been the heart of the city for centuries—hosting everything from bullfights and markets to executions and royal proclamations. Today, it’s a lively gathering place surrounded by restaurants and filled with street performers, locals, and tourists alike.

Walking, Wandering, and Wow-Worthy Architecture
One of our favorite things to do here? Just walk. Seriously—Madrid is a feast for the eyes. The mix of baroque, neoclassical, and modern architecture is incredible, with fountains tucked into corners, grand buildings lining wide boulevards, and pocket parks everywhere you turn. Every stroll turns into a photo shoot.

Flamenco at Corral de la Morería
We had the chance to attend a Flamenco show at Corral de la Morería, widely considered the most prestigious flamenco venue in the world. The performances were raw, emotional, and electric—there’s something about Flamenco that cuts straight to the soul. The intimate setting only added to the magic.

Getting Artsy at the Prado
We also spent an afternoon at the legendary Museo del Prado, home to one of the finest collections of European art in the world. Highlights included works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. I may have gotten a bit overzealous with the photo-taking before a staff member kindly (but firmly) reminded me that photography isn’t allowed. Oops.

Unexpected Laughs at Madrid Comedy Lab
One night we discovered a cozy little venue called Madrid Comedy Lab, which hosts English-speaking comedy shows. It was refreshingly low-key and genuinely funny—a great break from the heavy cultural hits and a reminder that humor really is universal.

Temple of Debod
Yesterday we wandered into Parque del Oeste and visited the Temple of Debod, an ancient Egyptian temple that was gifted to Spain in the 1960s. It’s a surreal sight to see in the middle of Madrid—and the views from the park overlooking the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral were stunning.

Late Dinners, Tapas, and More Tapas
Food-wise, Madrid has not disappointed. Tapas culture is alive and well, and we’ve enjoyed everything from patatas bravas to jamón ibérico, usually well after 10 p.m. It’s totally normal here to start dinner after 9 or 10 p.m.—and we’ve embraced it wholeheartedly.

Living Like Locals (Sort Of)
We’ve shifted into the local rhythm pretty quickly—late dinners, even later nights, and long, leisurely mornings. It’s not uncommon for us to stay out until 2 or 3 a.m. and sleep in until late morning. Honestly? We could get used to this.

A Night to Remember at DiverXO
The culinary highlight of our week was dinner at DiverXO, currently ranked the 4th best restaurant in the world. Chef Dabiz Muñoz serves up an avant-garde, multi-sensory tasting menu that blends global influences with outrageous presentation. Think chili crab served with cotton candy, Iberian pork disguised as dim sum, and edible sauces painted onto the plate like art. It was equal parts delicious and surreal—like dinner in a Salvador Dalí dream. I kept the camera at bay – until dessert came – you can see why, can’t you?

We still have another five days here in Madrid before heading to Porto, Portugal for two weeks. We’re planning to slow the pace a bit, soak in a few more museums, take a day trip to Toledo, and of course—eat more tapas. Stay tuned for more from the Spanish capital!

Adios, for now!

From Fire to Festivals: A Tale of Brussels, Tomorrowland, and Ibiza

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After our whirlwind days in Copenhagen, we landed in Brussels full of anticipation. Not just for the chocolate and waffles (though, spoiler alert: those did not disappoint), but because the crown jewel of our Global Journey was about to begin—Tomorrowland.

Our arrival was upbeat. We went straight to dinner with a group of new friends we’d met during our travels. Laughter echoed, drinks clinked, and plates were just being set when suddenly, everyone’s phones began lighting up. News alerts. Messages. Videos. The Tomorrowland mainstage—arguably the most iconic part of the festival—was on fire.

Within the hour, more than 80% of the mainstage had been destroyed. The room, once buzzing with pre-festival excitement, fell into a hush as we tried to make sense of what was happening. Was the festival going to be cancelled? Would they rebuild in time? Rumors flew faster than the flames. And while Tomorrowland remained impressively tight-lipped in the moment, it wasn’t long before we were reassured that the show would go on—just without its centerpiece.

That news was hard to process. For me, the mainstage has always been about more than just music—it’s the theatrics, the grandeur, the jaw-dropping production that transports you to another world. Losing that felt like losing the heart of the festival. But we were here, and the spirit of the crowd was still alive, so we pressed on.

Global Journey, true to its name, took us on an adventure all its own. We danced in the streets of Brussels, got spontaneous airbrush tattoos, and raved in an old warehouse decked out in neon. The organizers did an admirable job pivoting and trying to maintain the Tomorrowland magic. The disappointment lingered, but the energy of the people around us helped keep the vibe light. And hey, it’s not every day you rave with a drag queen in a castle courtyard or stumble upon a surprise techno set at 2pm.

Somewhere in the mix, I indulged in a truly authentic Belgian waffle—and learned more than I ever expected about them. I went with strawberry ice cream, fresh strawberries, and a thick drizzle of chocolate sauce (no regrets). What I didn’t know until that moment is that there are two types of Belgian waffles:

Brussels waffles – large, rectangular, airy, crisp.
Liège waffles – smaller, round, dense, caramelized from pearl sugar.
Yes, I tried both. For science.

When the festival officially began, Tomorrowland proved why it’s still one of the most celebrated festivals on Earth—even without a mainstage. It was overwhelming, chaotic, mesmerizing. At times, the crowd was way too much. It felt like everyone in Europe was there (and maybe they were?). But we learned to find small moments of peace—lounging in hammocks, enjoying the finer dining options, even just stealing quiet moments between sets.

My favorite stage was The Great Library, a stunning fantasy-style setup that felt like being inside an enchanted storybook. As for DJs—John Summit, Charlotte de Witte, Sara Landry, Lost Frequencies, and Nicky Romerodelivered in ways that made you forget the fire ever happened.

I didn’t take as many photos as usual—I lived more through video this time. Partly because the environment was constantly moving, partly because I wanted to be more present. Still, everyone agreed: something was different this year. The absence of the mainstage was a heavy note in an otherwise epic symphony. And every night ended the same way: with a brutal 40-minute walk back to the bus, exhausted, buzzing, and ready to collapse.

After three straight days of 12+ hour raves, we were more than ready for a change of pace. Cue: Ibiza.

Now, here’s the thing. I thought I understood Ibiza. I’d read about the party scene, heard all the stories, seen the Instagram reels. But nothing quite prepares you for the actual scene. It’s wild—beautiful, but wild. The clubs are pricey, the nights start at midnight and don’t stop until sunrise, and the people? Let’s just say… the energy was not exactly my vibe.

We had one DJ we wanted to see, but their set didn’t even begin until 3am. Just the idea of staying up that late, surrounded by sweaty, screaming, much-younger club kids gave me anxiety. No shade, just not my scene. Instead, we soaked in sunny beaches, did a bit of shopping, and discovered some incredible restaurants. One spot at the marina overlooked the old town—probably one of the best dining views of our trip, maybe our life.

Unfortunately, both of us were under the weather during our stay, which naturally kept us away from the Ibiza madness even more. In a way, it was a blessing. It forced us to rest, reset, and enjoy a quieter side of the island.

Final Thoughts:
Our journey from Brussels to Boom to Ibiza was a rollercoaster—a literal firestorm of emotions and unexpected turns. But that’s travel, and especially festival travel: you roll with the punches, dance in the ashes, and find joy wherever you can.

Even without a mainstage, Tomorrowland still managed to deliver unforgettable memories, and Ibiza, for all its intensity, reminded us of the value in knowing your limits and following your own beat.

Now, we’re en route to Madrid, where we’ll be spending the next two weeks. It’s our chance to catch our breath—to slow down, recharge, and soak in the city’s rich culture, food, and rhythm of daily life. After weeks of high energy and nonstop movement, Madrid will be our much-needed reset—and we’re excited to see what a slower pace might bring.

Three Nights in Lisbon: Rooftops, Rest Day & New Friends

From Lava Fields to Tapas Bars: Wrapping Up Iceland and Falling for Barcelona

Iceland: A Land of Extremes and Enchantment

Our last two days in Iceland were nothing short of unforgettable. We kicked things off at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can actually walk behind — and yes, we got completely soaked, but it was 100% worth it. From there, we took a ferry to the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), a volcanic archipelago known for its rugged beauty and rich history.

Cruising around the islands in a high-speed RIB boat was a highlight. We zipped past the famous Elephant Rock, explored quiet inlets like Lover’s Cove, spotted some rogue sheep grazing impossibly high on the cliffs, and — best of all — witnessed thousands of puffins in flight. These clumsy little seabirds are even more adorable in person. After the tour, we explored Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the chain, where we sampled some Icelandic specialties and toasted our adventure with cocktails at a cozy harbor-side bar.

On our final day, we made our way back toward Reykjavik. We strolled along Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur), peeked into boutiques full of quirky Icelandic design, and indulged in — wait for it — Mexican food for lunch. (Because sometimes, you just need a taco in the Arctic.)

It’s hard to put into words what Iceland meant to us. It was everything I imagined and more: wild waterfalls, moss-covered lava fields, black sand beaches, glacial tunnels, geothermal baths, and skies that never turned dark. While I couldn’t live somewhere with 24 hours of daylight (or its winter opposite), I could absolutely return again and again to this strange and stunning land. And I’m glad we went in the summer — 50s and 60s felt like paradise to these two ex-Floridians.
We took over 1,200 photos during our time in Iceland — if you want the full gallery, shoot me a message and I’ll send you a link.

Barcelona: Where Sidewalks Sizzle and Cultures Collide

After the quiet majesty of Iceland, arriving in Barcelona felt like diving into a completely different world — in the best way possible. We were only here for three nights, but the city immediately swept us off our feet. We didn’t do a ton of traditional sightseeing this time. Instead, we let the city set the pace.

Each day started with coffee on the sidewalk — never to-go, always to stay. We wandered through neighborhoods like El Born, Gràcia, and the Gothic Quarter, marveling at how centuries-old buildings coexist with sleek modern shops and hip cafés.

One afternoon, we hopped on a double-decker bus for a ride around the city — the perfect way to take in Barcelona’s stunning architecture and iconic landmarks without a strict agenda. We were on the lower deck (thanks to a packed top level), which made taking photos tricky due to the glare, but the views were still incredible. At one of the stops, we wandered off to grab lunch — and I’m not exaggerating when I say we had the best paella of my life. The saffron, the seafood, the crisp bottom layer — perfection.

We didn’t make it to every must-see, but we did experience a bit of the magic:

The architectural wonder of La Sagrada Família, even if only from the outside
A stroll down Passeig de Gràcia, where Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and Casa Milà stand like whimsical sculptures
And of course, the tree-lined La Rambla, teeming with life, music, and people from all over the world

Barcelona is a city of layers — Roman ruins beneath Gothic churches, avant-garde architecture beside sunbathers and sangria pitchers. It’s a place where worlds blend and where living well seems to be the shared religion. With just under 200 photos taken, you can tell this wasn’t about the camera — it was about being present. And I could absolutely see us returning for a longer stay in the future.

Onward to Lisbon!

As we board our flight to Lisbon, we realize we’ve done zero planning for the next few days — and honestly, that feels kind of perfect. After the rugged landscapes of Iceland and the romantic buzz of Barcelona, we’re excited to see what Portugal has in store. All I know is we’ll chase whatever vibes Lisbon decides to throw our way.

Thanks for following along on the Run.
From Barcelona, with love —
B & C

A Day of Firsts: Snowmobiles, Glaciers, Lava Caves & More

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Spoiler alert: I didn’t go back to sleep after finishing my last blog. Just as I was wrapping it up, Casey woke up and we decided to get an early start—and I’m so glad we did. What followed was a packed, beautiful, and downright thrilling day full of unforgettable firsts (and sheep grazing along our path).

We hit the road for a two-hour drive to our first stop: the stunning waterfalls of Barnafoss and Hraunfossar. Set against the backdrop of lava fields, the vibrant Arctic-blue water rushing through the black rock was absolutely mesmerizing. We spent time walking the trails, snapping photos, and just taking it all in.

But the main event of the day awaited: Langjökull Glacier.

After navigating the highland tracks to reach the glacier base camp, we suited up for a snowmobiling adventure. About two-thirds of the way up the glacier, we made our first stop—a walk through the largest man-made ice tunnel in the world. Stretching 500 meters long and 3.5 meters wide, with ice as thick as 25 meters overhead, it was an awe-inspiring experience. The layers of blue and white ice, compacted over centuries, created a surreal, almost otherworldly scene.

It was also sobering: our guide shared that Langjökull has lost nearly 29% of its mass since 1890, most of that in the last decade alone. It’s estimated to vanish entirely within the next 125–150 years. The glacier—whose name means “Long Glacier”—is Iceland’s second largest.

Before exiting the ice tunnel, our guide gave us a surprise: because of the clear weather, we’d be snowmobiling all the way to the glacier’s peak, nearly 1,300 meters above sea level. So off we went—Casey behind the wheel—as we climbed higher into the dazzling white landscape. At the summit, we stepped off, took in the jaw-dropping views, and I even made a snow angel. Just before we left, it started to snow—making the entire moment feel like a scene from a dream.

Then came my turn to drive—and let’s just say we didn’t exactly coast down the glacier. I was grinning the entire way.

Back at base camp, still buzzing with adrenaline, we impulsively decided to squeeze in one more adventure: a tour of Viðgelmir Lava Tunnel, one of the largest lava caves in the world. Nestled beneath the Hallmundarhraun lava field, the cave was formed during a volcanic eruption in 930 CE that lasted several years and spread across 200 square kilometers. With a volume of more than five million cubic feet, it’s a geological marvel—nearly 1,600 meters long and almost 17 meters wide in parts.

Casey, with his geology degree, was in heaven—and so was I. Our guide was phenomenal, sharing fascinating details about Viking artifacts and skeletal remains found inside. The textures, shapes, and colors of the cave walls were eerie, beautiful, and unlike anything I’ve seen before.

After nearly 18 hours awake, we made the 2.5-hour drive back to Reykholt, grabbed a pizza from a local joint, and made it back to our cozy cabin. I crashed on the couch almost instantly.

Eleven hours of glorious sleep later, we decided to take it easy today. We’ve had a physically intense week and tomorrow is shaping up to be another epic day. Here’s what’s in store:

Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall you can walk behind
The iconic Seljalandsfoss
The black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, famous for its basalt columns
A ferry ride to Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
A boat tour of Heimaey Island, including Elephant Rock, a dormant volcano, a beluga whale sanctuary, and Iceland’s largest puffin colony

But for today? It’s all about rest, Icelandic beers, leftovers, and a little TV.

Stay tuned—so much more magic to come!

First Impressions of Iceland: Lava Fields, Lobster Ravioli & a Midnight Sun

Adiós, Bucerías – A Bittersweet Farewell to Mexico

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We’re at the airport lounge in Puerto Vallarta, sipping a morning cocktail and taking a moment to soak in just how special this past month in Mexico has been. It’s hard to put into words how deeply the experience touched us—but I’ll try.

Let’s start here: the people of Mexico are simply incredible. Kind, hardworking, joyful. There’s an ease and warmth in their smiles that makes you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. While we didn’t do many day trips, the few we did take allowed us to connect with the community in a meaningful way. Bucerías may not be a place we return to, but it will always hold a place in our hearts. This charming coastal town introduced us to some of the most beautiful souls we’ve ever met. Viva México.

One of our final adventures was to Sayulita—a colorful, laid-back beach town with boutique shops, vibrant energy, and beaches that sparkle under the sun. We browsed a few streets, picked up some breezy linen outfits (I found the cutest matching set, while Casey rocked his classic camo-and-solids combo), then settled into beach chairs with signature cocktails and nachos, watching surfers dance across the waves. Surfing feels like magic to me—equal parts bravery and beauty. s an added bonus, we were treated to the sight of a beautiful German Shepherd joyfully chasing the waves, always keeping his eyes on his human. He was such a good boi, and it absolutely made our day.

The last few days in Bucerías were quiet and grounding. We kept up our gym and pool routine, worked on a few projects, and mostly cooked at home—so no food pics this time, sorry! It’s been a restful end to our first leg, and now… things are about to shift.

The next few months will be anything but calm—in the best way possible. After a quick stop in Atlanta and a week with family in North Carolina, we’re off for a four-month European expedition. First stop: Iceland. And let me tell you, I am buzzing with anticipation. From nearly 20 hours of daylight to the surreal landscapes, Iceland has always been a dream destination. Casey booked us a day at the Blue Lagoon Retreat Spa, where I’ll be indulging in the full Blue Lagoon Ritual—cleansing for the body, soul, and mind. I’m more than ready.

We’ve got a lot to prepare before we cross the Atlantic, but for now, we’re soaking up every moment with our loved ones in NC. My next post will be from Iceland—or shortly after—but you can count on photos, stories, and reflections from the road.

To everyone cheering us on: thank you. Your encouragement has been felt with every step. This first month has been healing in ways I didn’t know I needed. And after 30 straight days of 24/7 togetherness, I can say with complete certainty—I’m on the right journey, with the right person.

To my Casey: ILYLALS. ❤️

The Journey Continues: Leg 2 of Our World Travels is Locked In!

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After an unforgettable start to the first leg of our journey—from Appalachian charm and Disney magic to the vibrant streets of Puerto Vallarta and Bucerias—we’re thrilled to share that Leg 2 of our global sabbatical is officially finalized! 🌍✈️

The next stretch will take us deeper into Europe, exploring cities bursting with history, food, and flair, before we trade cobblestone alleys for Caribbean breezes. Here’s where we’re headed next:

🇮🇸 Iceland | June 27 – July 5
A land of fire and ice, Iceland kicks off our European summer adventure with otherworldly landscapes, geothermal hot springs, dramatic waterfalls, and endless daylight. We’ll be chasing puffins by day and basking in the midnight sun by night.

🇪🇸 Barcelona, Spain | July 5 – July 10
Gaudí’s whimsical architecture, beachside charm, and bustling tapas bars set the stage for five unforgettable days in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Expect a mix of culture, cocktails, and seaside strolls.

🇵🇹 Lisbon, Portugal | July 10 – July 13
A short but sweet stay in Portugal’s colorful capital, where old-world charm meets modern cool. Think pastel buildings, steep hills, soulful Fado music, and flaky pastel de nata with a view.

🇩🇰 Copenhagen, Denmark | July 13 – July 16
We’re popping into one of Scandinavia’s happiest capitals for canal-side bike rides, Nordic cuisine, and maybe even a visit to Tivoli Gardens. It’s sleek, sustainable, and effortlessly stylish.

🇧🇪 Brussels, Belgium (Tomorrowland) | July 16 – July 22
We’ll dive into waffles, beer, and electronic beats as we base ourselves in Brussels for one of the most iconic music festivals in the world—Tomorrowland. Culture by day, rave by night.

🇪🇸 Ibiza, Spain | July 22 – July 25
Three days of sunsets, sea breezes, and chill vibes to recharge after the high energy of Tomorrowland. Ibiza offers the perfect mix of beach lounging and Balearic beats.

🇪🇸 Madrid, Spain | July 25 – August 8

Two weeks in the heart of Spain’s capital to soak in sultry summer nights, world-class museums, tapas culture, and rooftop cocktails. After the party vibes of Ibiza, this leg promises a more refined, yet equally lively, rhythm.

🇵🇹 Porto, Portugal | August 8 – August 21

Ah, Porto—where wine flows like water and every street looks like a painting. We’re setting up camp here for two weeks of riverfront strolls, port tastings, and day trips through the Douro Valley. Yes, please.

🇲🇪 Tivat, Montenegro | August 21 – September 26

We’re slowing down in style. Tivat gives us access to the Bay of Kotor, medieval towns, rugged mountains, and beaches that beg for long, lazy afternoons. This will be our moment to pause, reset, and soak in Balkan beauty.

🇸🇪 🇳🇴 Scandinavia | September 26 – October 21

As autumn sets in, we’ll head north in search of the aurora borealis and cozy train rides through fjords and forests. From Stockholm to Oslo and (hopefully!) all the way to Abisko, this leg promises magic in every sense.

🚢 Caribbean Cruise | November 1 – November 8

Back to the states! Time to trade layers for swimsuits. We’ll set sail for a week-long Caribbean cruise stopping in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and the Bahamas to celebrate our brother Dustyn’s birthday. Sun, sea, and some well-earned pampering after a whirlwind European adventure.

🇺🇸 Georgia (November) & North Carolina (December)

We’ll wrap up 2025 stateside, reconnecting with family and friends for the holidays in two of our favorite southern stops before gearing up for Leg 3—our leap into Asia and the Pacific.

We’re incredibly grateful to be able to continue this journey together—gathering memories, stories, and probably a few extra pounds from all the food. If you’ve been to any of these destinations, drop us a tip or must-see! Otherwise, come along for the ride here at Brand On The Run. 💫

Living Our Dream,
– B & C

Two Weeks in Bucerías: Heatwaves, Lost Phones, and Poolside Bliss

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We’ve officially wrapped up our first two weeks in Bucerías, Mexico—and aside from one frantic hiccup, it’s been exactly the kind of reset I was hoping for.

Let’s start with the drama: About 30 minutes ago, we got back to our apartment from the grocery store and realized I’d left my phone in the taxi. Cue panic. We grabbed another cab and raced back to the grocery where we’d been picked up, only to find out that our driver had picked up someone else and was now stuck in Puerto Vallarta’s rush-hour traffic—going the opposite direction. Of course. My phone is basically my camera and lifeline, so the idea of having to deal with Apple insurance and wait for a replacement was… less than thrilling. Thankfully, just as I was finishing this post, the driver returned with my phone. All is well in the world again. Faith in humanity: intact.

Aside from that chaotic moment, Bucerías has been a mixed but mostly beautiful experience. Admittedly, I wasn’t all that impressed on our first evening walk. We passed a few crumbling buildings, lots of trash, and got some distinct “developing country” vibes. But the next outing, we took a different route and stumbled upon charming cobblestone streets, vibrant homes, and colonial architecture that reminded me of St. Augustine. It’s clear the town is evolving—condos are going up everywhere—and it’ll be interesting to see what it becomes in the next few years.

We haven’t explored much—partly due to the heat (pale, bald gingers don’t thrive in 100+ degrees), and partly because we’re not in the market for souvenirs. Still, the small-town charm and splashes of color have made an impression.

We’ve also managed to mix in a little adventure. One night, we booked the Marigalante Pirate Ship experience in Puerto Vallarta—and while it may sound kitschy, it was a surprisingly entertaining evening. The show was high-energy and filled with humor, acrobatics, sword fights, and dancing—definitely more geared toward adults than kids. Dinner was fine (nothing to write home about), but the fireworks over the bay were a highlight, and our host made the whole night even more enjoyable. If you’re in the area and looking for something fun and theatrical, it’s worth checking out.

Another standout outing was a rooftop drag brunch that quickly became one of the highlights of our trip. Bottomless mimosas flowed freely, the queens were fierce, and the go-go boys? Let’s just say they were easy on the eyes. The energy was electric, the views of the city and ocean were incredible, and the atmosphere felt like a true celebration of Pride. In one unforgettable moment, Nick—never one to shy away from the spotlight—jumped up and replaced one of the go-go dancers mid-set. It was hysterical. I haven’t laughed that hard in ages. There’s something magical about sipping bubbly in the sun, surrounded by joy, laughter, and community.

On the home front, I had a small but proud personal victory: I made homemade guacamole for the first time. Simple ingredients, nothing fancy—but it turned out delicious. There’s something satisfying about making something fresh with your own hands, especially when it pairs perfectly with poolside margaritas and chips.

One restaurant, in particular, deserves a shoutout: Karen’s Place. Founded by a woman from the U.S. who fell in love with this part of Mexico decades ago, it’s become a staple—and for good reason. Friendly staff, strong cocktails, and standout dishes like their Bruschetta Italiana and the unforgettable Chile en Nogada made the experience special. That dish—stuffed poblano peppers with pork, beef, fruit, and a walnut cream sauce—was a revelation. Like Mexican autumn on a plate. I will be going back.

Another night we dined at Adauto’s, where we sat literally five feet from the ocean. The waves crashing, birds calling, warm breeze—absolutely magical. The food was good, not great, but the setting made it a very memorable dinner.

Most days have been slow and peaceful—lounging by the pool, reading, scrolling, sipping drinks, and avoiding U.S. news whenever possible. This isn’t the space for politics, but if you know me, you know I’m relieved to be away right now. To those back home navigating tough times—stay strong. Stay aware. And protect the dolls.

We’ve been lucky to have family join us for most of our stay. Casey’s sister Brittney and her boyfriend Nick arrived the day after we did and stayed a week. Our highlight? A chaotic, laugh-until-you-cry game night playing Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza. It’s simple, silly, and with Nick’s epic sore-loser energy, absolutely hilarious. I have an entire album of him competing with Brittney for a title that technically doesn’t exist: “not last place.”

After they left, Casey’s brother Dustyn and his boyfriend Patrick flew in. Chill vibes continued—we had some great dinners, including our first visit to Karen’s Place, and used ResortPass to spend a day at Secrets Resort. Luxurious pools, endless food, and adult beverages in abundance (within reason). I had no idea ResortPass was a thing, but now I’m a fan.

Time is wonderfully slippery here. I woke up this morning thinking it was Sunday. Spoiler: it’s Monday. But honestly, that’s the goal. For the first time in my adult life, no one’s telling me where I have to be or when. I sleep when I want, work out when I feel like it, blog when inspiration hits, and lounge guilt-free. It’s the freedom I didn’t know I needed until I had it.

Speaking of working out—yes, I’ve been going to the gym nearly every day. I’m not measuring progress, but I feel better: more energy, less stress, and slowly, maybe, a little less soft around the middle. Casey’s about 5 years ahead of me in his fitness journey, so I’m just trying to catch up. Or at least not fall too far behind.

All in all, this sabbatical is shaping up exactly how I hoped it would. We’ve got two more weeks here—just the two of us—before the whirlwind of Europe begins. I plan to soak in every slow, sun-drenched, sweat-filled moment.

Until next time—Be Kind to One Another..

P.S. Thank you, Matt B., for encouraging me to blog even when life isn’t all adventure and adrenaline. Sometimes, the quiet moments are just as worth sharing.

ATLANTA WRAP-UP: FRIENDS, FAMILY & A WHOLE LOTTA FOOD

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We just wrapped up the first two weeks of our sabbatical in Atlanta, and what a perfect way it was to ease into this new chapter. It was all about reconnecting—with family, with lifelong friends, and with the familiar comforts of home-cooked meals and belly laughs.

We kicked things off with a lovely dinner at Mezza Luna with my dad, Nina, and Granny. The food was fantastic, but it was the kind and supportive words from my parents that made the night truly memorable.

Sunday brought more joy—and more good food. We had dinner with my childhood best friend, Mary Kate, and her amazing boyfriend, Brandon. We joked that her mom (RIP Momma Cheryl) and my Granny would finally be happy knowing Mary Kate and “Brandon” ended up together. I’ve watched MaryKate grow into a fierce, brilliant, independent woman over the past 25+ years, and having her in my life continues to be one of my greatest blessings.

On Monday, I caught up with another high school friend, Michelle. Over an incredible Indian lunch, we talked about life, motherhood, family, and everything in between. She’s been through a lot over the years but remains unshaken—graceful, grounded, and strong. I admire the hell out of her.

Between all the meetups, we spent lots of time with Granny—and yes, she cooked. Her signature spaghetti and coleslaw combo sounds outrageous, I know, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and somehow perfect. Italians, look away.

Mom’s cat, Taz, is the epitome of an orange cat—sweet and snuggly one minute, a tiny chaotic menace the next. Classic Taz: part angel, part gremlin, all attitude.

Then came my sister, Katie. We ran errands, caught up on life, and devoured biscuits roughly the size of my head. I’m always reminded that while my family may not be the closest, they’re still my anchor. I’m proud to call her my sister.

On Tuesday, I finally made it to the Georgia Aquarium—something that somehow evaded me for 20 years despite dozens of visits to Atlanta. It was magical, especially sharing it with Ada and Cora, two of the kindest, smartest little girls I know.

Later that day, we visited the World of Coke. We flew through the exhibits but made time for the best part—sampling 60+ Coke products from around the world. FYI, there’s one from China that tastes exactly like barbecue sauce. Zero stars. Would not recommend.

Wednesday was all about quality time with my best friend Stephanie. Coffee turned into three hours of deep convos, shared memories, and some much-needed emotional detox. She’s one of those friends who just gets you—and time with her is always healing.

That night, Granny insisted on making ham sandwiches and potato salad—and let me tell you, this potato salad is life-changing. One bite and you’re ruined for all others.

And just like that, it’s Thursday. We were up at 5:45 a.m. and by afternoon, we were landing in beautiful Puerto Vallarta. We’re here for four glorious weeks of rest, sun, cocktails, family time, and yes, beach bumming. As a surprise bonus, we arrived just in time for the Puerto Vallarta Pride Festival! Drag shows, pool parties, love, acceptance, glitter—we’re all in.

It’s been a whirlwind three weeks since closing on the house, and now… I plan to be a total bum for the next four. Stay tuned—there’s a lot more On The Run ahead.