(Mile 3,975 Arizona—Utah) Sometimes everything just goes wrong. But all we have for sure is RIGHT NOW. So, what will you do with that Truth?

(Sedona, AZ, Mile 3,540) Sedona brought me face to face with my demons EVERY DAY, and yet it proved to be full of magic, serendipity, and personal growth.

(Santa Fe, NM. Mile 3,127) Toltec teachings, tarantulas, and great french toast.

(Taos, NM. Mile 3,057) You never know when one seemingly chance meeting will change the course of your life forever.

(Denver–Boulder, Colorado. Mile 2,742) The first thing I noticed about Denver was the incredible sky, stacked with magnificent clouds, over breathtaking mountains. The second thing I noticed were hordes of fit, white men jogging or playing volleyball.

(Yellowstone–Grand Tetons–Boulder, WY. Mile 2,360) The South Rim Trail went past both waterfalls and could loop, by way of the Wapiti Trail, back to Artists Point. But I hiked it backwards from what was charted on the trail guide, which led dire consequences.

(Missoula–Glacier–Livingston, Mile 2160) Last week took me from Seattle to Missoula, through Glacier, to Livingston, to Yellowstone, through the Grand Tetons, and finally to a llama farm in Wyoming. Phew!

Seattle, Washington (mile 1,224). Every special event requires some sacrifice. Little did I know I would be the one for my cousins wedding. The magic of this journey to date continued through Oregon, but my luck was about to change.

Fourth stop: Klamath River (mile 720). It’s a quiet life here on the Klamath River. I wake up while the morning is still cool and tip toe to the outdoor kitchen-living-deck so as not to disturb the deer.

Arnold, CA (mile 346). Serendipity strikes again in the cutest ever town of Arnold, a quick pass through on my way north. Chosen randomly for the trees, the wifi, and the hot tub, the vacation home in Arnold left me wanting more, and offered a big surprise.

Stop 2: Yosemite National Park (mile 242). By my calculations based on good advice, I needed to wake up before 5 a.m. to drive the 2.5 hours and park before 8:15 a.m. when my text alerts from the Yosemite Park Service told me the lots filled up each morning. Did she make it?!