Find Beauty, Tranquility & Wonder in Alpena, Michigan
Our family loves to adventure to new places together, especially in our home state of Michigan. We live in Traverse City, and as we looked at a map, we noticed
Kristi Murphy
I'm an adventure seeking, nature loving, mama of two. After many years of exploration, my husband and I planted our roots in beautiful Traverse City, MI. I am shaped by my experiences in the outdoors, taking inspiration from our natural world and moments shared with my loved ones. Most of my writing is a way for me to reflect, slow down, and earmark these memories before time passes by. Mainly, I aim to notice and be astonished every day by the small details of love running through the current of my life, and share this joy with others.
The Hidden Beauty of Southwest Michigan’s “Shoulder Seasons”
The “spring” blues hit hard this time of the year, with the weather undecided on what it wants to do. I deal with it differently every year; sometimes, I focus
This Time of Year is Perfect for a Quiet Weekend in the Petoskey Area
Adventure is never far from home – especially if you live in Michigan. Even in the doldrums of winter, there are always places to go and things to experience. Recently,
Ski, Swim & SkyBridge: The Ultimate Winter Weekend at Boyne Mountain
Winter was approaching, our minds excited for the prospect of snow and all the delight it brings. Our kids have been begging for a ski weekend at Boyne Mountain with
Experience the Thrill of Michigan Winter Rafting on This Gorgeous River
If you only try one new adventure this year, make it Michigan winter rafting on the Jordan River… It’s no surprise that I believe the winter season is pure magic-
Stay in a yurt, hobbit house, or A-frame cabin at this four-season, off-grid Michigan retreat.
Let me tell you a secret- adventure is here- RIGHT HERE- under your nose. You don’t have to go far, spend a lot of money, or take a week off
Discovering the Magic of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula
I am sitting outside, listening to the crickets sing. It is a sign of the oncoming autumn. The air is calm, and it takes a while for the day to
6 Beautiful Hikes in Marquette You Need to Explore
Marquette is a town known for many things – history, skiing, mountain biking, breweries, and of course, hiking. I spent almost 10 years in Colorado, bagging peaks and filling my
16 Awesome Spots for an Epic Long Weekend in Marquette
The first time I went to Marquette, Michigan, it was a happy mistake. A friend was getting married just outside of Munising, and luckily, a camping spot became available in
Savor The Flavor Of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula At Lawry’s Pasty Shop
Last week, I traveled with my children up to the Upper Peninsula. We have passed through many of these towns several times before, but this time, we were on a
Backpacking with Kids: How to Turn Challenges into Triumphs
If I could freeze this season of life, I would. My kids, now ages ten and seven, are pure magic. They are still innocent, without the weight of a job
Adventure Awaits on These Awesome Traverse City Bike Trails
Let’s go explore these awesome Traverse City bike trails… Winter has loosened its grip; the earth is coming to life again. Our motivation is returning, and our muscles are begging
Celebrate Simple Joys With A Michigan Wonder Jar
Looking to adventure close to home? You don’t have to go someplace big to find meaning. Fill your Michigan wonder jar in your own backyard… About a year ago, my daughter and
10 Beautiful Hikes in Traverse City You Need to Explore
The next time you are in Northern Michigan, check out these beautiful hidden gem hiking trails in Traverse City that the whole family can enjoy… Hiking has been a natural
How I Learned to Love Michigan Winters
I wake in the early morning, looking out to find that snow has covered the ground in fresh flakes once again. For some, this discovery may be met with dismay.