Merrell: Meet the 2017 College Ambassadors

Merrell is an outdoor brand that specializes in hiking shoes and clothing. As a Merrell College Ambassador, I get to lead amazing trips with the Outdoor Adventure Club through the generous grant provided by Merrell and Outdoor Foundation. Some of the trips include camping and hiking at local and state parks, ice skating, horseback riding and 5K runs. I love being an ambassador and am continuously inspired by my fellow colleagues! My only qualm is that we all live so far apart :) Be sure to check out their breathtaking Instagram feeds for some serious outdoor envy!

Uplifting Quotes for Lent

Every year for Lent, I think of something to give up. In the past, I've given up chocolate, shopping, eating out (coffee is out of the question) and I usually don't to a stellar job. This year I decided I wanted to DO something. I want to spread joy and make it as easy on you to do something positive during lent. Each day I will send out an uplifting bible quote straight to your inbox. It will be short, sweet, and to the point with no personal side commentary. Let each quote inspire you to do good. 

*this form has closed, check back next year!*

Great Falls National Park and Riverbend State Park Hike

Date: February 2017
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2 hours
Weather: 45 degrees Fahrenheit, partly cloudy and rainy
Photos were taken on my Samsung Galaxy S7
Shoes and raincoat: Merrell; Waterproof joggers: Athleta

Guided dirt trails make this hike easy and enjoyable. Because we went on a rainy day, we experienced a fairly empty trail. The path follows the Potomac River until it intercepts the falls in Great Falls National Park. It is free to park at Riverbend but it is approximately a one-mile walk to Great Falls (you can park at Great Falls but will have to pay park fees). There are three overlooks and my photos of the falls were taken at overlook number one. The man-made dam is located in Riverbend. On warm days, sometimes you can watch experienced kayakers maneuver the smaller falls. There is a more challenging Billy Goat trail on the Maryland side of the falls.

Ugly Dress Christmas Gift

This year I had the great idea to gift my mom an ugly mother-of-the-bride dress just to see what happens. Rae helped me out and discreetly video recorded her opening the gift. Her reaction says it all... I'm sure she won't be wearing it to my wedding! Enjoy!

A Very Merry DIY Christmas: Dog Biscuit+Ball Jar

The temperatures here are dropping and we are just a few weeks away from Christmas! If you're anything like my family, it can be hard to buy for everyone. But, if you know any dog lovers, anything you get for their beloved pups will be a welcomed gift. This is a quick and simple glass jar stuffed with goodies and toys. Fill it with items from around the house, small bones, treats, balls, clothing... whatever your heart desires. I used a paint pen in white with a small rounded tip to write the quote. I used fonts "Cheddar Jack" and "DK Yellow Sun" as guidance.