Traveling with Danielle and Paige

There’s nothing quite like game day in Tucson. The energy, the tradition, the sea of red and blue—it all comes together in a way that makes you feel instantly part of something bigger. Attending both the men’s and women’s basketball games at the University of Arizona this season was the perfect way to experience Wildcat pride from every angle. Here’s how it all unfolded. 🏀 Women’s Basketball vs. UCF Knights (1/10/26) We kicked things off on January 10th as the Arizona women hosted the UCF Knights women's basketball at McKale Center . The atmosphere felt electric from the start—families, students, alumni, and longtime fans filling the arena with that unmistakable Wildcats energy. The band was in full force, the cheerleaders kept the crowd engaged, and every defensive stop was met with roaring approval. There’s something special about women’s college basketball right now—the speed of play, the skill level, and the growing excitement around the game. Arizona’s squad played wi...

There’s something about a winter weekend in Flagstaff that feels both adventurous and cozy at the same time. Tall pines dusted with snow, crisp mountain air, and that small-town charm make it the perfect Arizona escape—especially when it includes skiing, great food, and more coffee stops than strictly necessary (but completely justified). Here’s how our ski weekend unfolded.   Checking In: High Country Charm at High Motor Country Lodge We based ourselves at High Motor Country Lodge, and it set the tone immediately. Think modern mountain vibes with a retro motor-lodge feel—warm wood accents, fire pits glowing at night, and that unmistakable pine-scented air. After checking in, we dropped our bags, layered up, and headed straight back out. In Flagstaff, you don’t waste daylight—especially when snow is involved. Ski Day at Snowbowl Arizona Snowbowl always surprises people who don’t realize you can ski in Arizona. But there we were, carving down runs with sweeping views that st...

Over the holidays, my mom came to visit us in Tucson , and we designed a mix of outdoor exploration, cultural experiences, and seasonal events. Tucson’s combination of desert landscapes, museums, and holiday programming made for a diverse and manageable itinerary that worked well for a short visit. Christmas Caravan at Saguaro National Park East We started with the Christmas Caravan at Saguaro National Park East, a seasonal drive-through event highlighting the park’s iconic cacti decorated for the holidays. The park’s scenic loop allows for a relaxed drive while taking in desert flora and festive lighting. This event is particularly accessible for visitors of all ages and mobility levels. The combination of natural beauty and seasonal display made it a unique way to experience Saguaro National Park during winter without needing extensive hiking. Holiday Lights at the Tucson Botanical Gardens We visited the Tucson Botanical Gardens for their annual holiday lights display. The gar...