Hiking New Zealand’s Kepler Track, Part 2: Luxmore to Iris Burn

If you haven’t already, make sure to read Part 1 here!

It was only 7pm, but I was so exhausted from the day’s treck I definitely would have been in bed if it wasn’t for the Ranger program. There were around 50 of us in the hut that night, and we gathered in the common area to listen to the Ranger give us a run-down of tomorrow’s walk. We could hear the wind howling outside, but inside the wood stove was doing its job and keeping us all cozy. At 7 on the dot a sprightly, middle-aged man introduced himself as the ranger. We all quieted to listen. Continue reading “Hiking New Zealand’s Kepler Track, Part 2: Luxmore to Iris Burn”

3.5 Years Later, Shut Down Again

During the last big government shutdown in 2013 I was working for the NPS as a Park Ranger. As a direct result of the shutdown I decided to leave the NPS and switch careers completely. Continue reading “3.5 Years Later, Shut Down Again”

Where I’m From

Recently I celebrated my one year Melbourne-versary – that is, the anniversary of my arrival in Melbourne one year ago. I came into this adventure hopeful, but unsure as to how I would cope living so far from home, and how I would do with this giant unknown. Over the last year however, Melbourne has completely won me over with her special southern charms. I’m all settled into life down under these days. Continue reading “Where I’m From”

2016

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How has 5 months gone by so quickly?? 5 months with no new content on this blog. It turns out moving and getting to a know a new job, city, and country takes a lot out of you. Continue reading “2016”

My Favorite Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park

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I haven’t written nearly enough about my amazing summer living in Rocky Mountain National Park and the exploring that afforded me. Continue reading “My Favorite Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park”

The Pros and Cons of Remote Cabin Living

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It’s been months now that I’ve called Rocky Mountain National Park home, and much like Canyonlands and Mesa Verde, I’m finding this park to be incredibly beautiful, complex, thrilling, and full of unique challenges. Continue reading “The Pros and Cons of Remote Cabin Living”

International Family: One Day in DC

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I consider myself a very fortunate child of several different worlds. Continue reading “International Family: One Day in DC”

You Don’t Deserve Your National Parks

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Yes, you read that right. Continue reading “You Don’t Deserve Your National Parks”

Moved In and Looking Back: It All Worked Out

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Sunset view from our cabin inside Rocky Mountain National Park

My flight from Florida back to Colorado left at a painfully early hour, and after a long flight and a longer drive from the airport, I arrived at Austin and I’s mountainside cabin completely and utterly exhausted. Continue reading “Moved In and Looking Back: It All Worked Out”

Where’s Mariana Moving Next? What I’ve Been Up To

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Never in my life have I gone so long without a plan. Continue reading “Where’s Mariana Moving Next? What I’ve Been Up To”