Desert Paradise

Our favorite part of Scottsdale was our stay at the Saguaro a.k.a desert paradise. It's located in the heart of Old Town. So bright, so beautiful. I could definitely live there. We lounged by the pool most of the time and even did some night swimming. They had underwater speakers. It just doesn't get more magical than music under water.

We also put the bikes to good use. If you're not a regular, apparently you're sore for days. Who knew?

We had to try out the Distrito. Their chorizo is everything. I think it may have been the best I've ever had and I've had some pretty amazing chorizo. 

So long, summer! You were so good to us.

An Arizona Adventure

This picture just about sums up how I feel about Scottsdale, Arizona. Kandee and I traveled to the valley of the sun this month and had an absolute blast. We couldn't get enough of Old Town and the desert. I may not miss the 115 degree weather, but I do miss that charming town full of culture.

The best Jalapeno Pecan Cakes from the Orange Table Bar.

Just chatting it up with some locals.

When we weren't stuffing our faces with food, we were shopping at Mexican Imports. We went to this store at least once a day. We left with Mexican blankets galore. I had trouble fitting all of the goodies into my suitcase and had to even take a few blankets as my carry on. Yes, I was that girl. There were so many places we didn't get a chance to explore. Take Goldfield Ghost Town for example. I guess I'll just have to go back. No complaints there!

Siesta Key

What a gorgeous beach! In a nutshell, I spent the week collecting seashells, falling in love with Hadley Hemingway's story and soaking up the sun. I think I may have brought home over 200 seashells. I had some help collecting only the finest. Tad asked me what I'm going to do with all of my mermaid money (he would). That's a great question. If you have any ideas, please feel free to share.

Such a great week with those sweet in-laws of mine. I was so happy to be a part of the matching tops tradition this year. Thinking we should include the boys in that tradition next year. I'm already looking forward to putting my toes in the sand again. I mean, is there really anything better than the beach in the summer? Didn't think so.

Check out more Florida vacation here and here.

Shrimp & Sunsets

My favorite night of vacation involved shrimp and a beautiful sunset. Tad's sweet granddad treated us to dinner at Lobster Pot and it was so delicious. I have never had a lobster roll and had my heart set on ordering one. That is until I saw it was made with mayonnaise. I just couldn't do it. It didn't take me long to get over it when I saw stuffed shrimp on the menu. Yes, please. 

These lovebirds. So sweet! After dinner, we had to check out the sunset on the beach. Such a sucker for that cliche. Who isn't?

The only thing that could have made that sunset more perfect was Tad. Next year!

The Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

When in Sarasota, visit the Mote Marine Laboratory. I was so excited for this. I absolutely love the aquatic life. I was this close to switching my major to marine biology after freshman year. The staff there is living the dream. We had so much fun exploring the aquarium. If I'm ever in this neck of the woods again, I'll be back.

Can't believe I mustered the courage to touch a stingray. How does swimming with a whale not frighten me, but touching a stingray does? I'm a mystery.

 Carter's face. Is that not the cutest sea turtle you ever did see? She is just too darling.

Beach Bound

Ready to take these flamingos to Florida for a week. Shout out to the sweet lady who did my pedicure yesterday. My toes have never looked so pretty! So sad Tad can't make it on this vacation. So sad. That bar review is no joke. I'll bring him back some sand and seashells. 

See you soon, Sarasota.

Magical Marfa

We stayed at El Cosmico. Trailers, teepees and tents, oh my! Our bed was quite cozy. Never mind it was 35 degrees at night, we had an electric blanket that saved the day.

We decided we are nowhere near cool enough for a town like Marfa, but we loved the art and mystery lights. Yes, we saw them and it was pretty amazing. If only I knew the right setting on my camera to take a picture. That is still a mystery as well. Better luck next time. 

This was the best road trip ever. It confirms what we already knew: Texas is the best state in the world. If you haven't visited these parts, do it. It won't disappoint. See more of our West Texas road trip here, here and here.