Arizona Adventuring

When was the last time an idea sprung in your head, and you immediately ran with it? One of my best friends Jess, (yes – Jess and Jess), and I were itching to travel and within a few days booked a spontaneous last minute vacation. We have been travelling together ever since we went to France and Italy during high school, and take any opportunity we get to explore new states and countries with one another. Nothing is better than having a designated travel buddy!

Another one of my best friends, Carly, moved to Arizona last year and I have not seen her since she headed out west. Her moving away was incredibly difficult because I would see her so frequently. Jess and I booked our flights to reunite with Carly and spend time with her in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Arizona, since we wanted to go somewhere warm and experience a new city. It was a perfect weekend to be able to spend quality time with friends, and celebrate my birthday early. During our first night, we all grabbed dinner at a local brewery. Usually I am quite indecisive on what I want to order off a menu, but this spot had a pizza called “The Jess,” which was an instant YES in my eyes. It was meant to be, and tasted incredible!

The next day, we went out for brunch, where our outstanding bartender, Willy, captured a photo of the 3 of us, which is pictured below. The ambiance and hospitality we received was top-notch. Aside from Arizona being such a beautiful state, every single person that Jess and I met made such a lasting impression on us because they were all down-to-earth. Our restaurant servers and Uber and Lyft drivers were so interested in learning where we were from, and took their time to genuinely chat with us and provide us with recommendations on places to check out during our stay. Remember that you are in control of how you carry yourself, and how you impact and leave your mark on others. Choose to be kind and helpful because it is so appreciated, and does not go unnoticed. With us not being locals, we still felt so at ease and welcomed.

Our final day was spent walking to get some fresh and locally made acai bowls, and enjoying them poolside that morning. Later, we went to visit Carly at her house, and had a relaxing pool day. Her long-distance boyfriend, Nic, spontaneously booked a flight to see her, so when he arrived into town, we all went out for sushi. It warmed my heart to see Carly light up and filled with so much joy. I was grateful that I got to meet Nic in person and see their connection grow even stronger in front of my eyes. Whether it is with your love story, your travel plans, or living life in general, if there is no risk, there is no reward. Live boldly!

The bittersweet part of a vacation ending is that you got so used to your surroundings, knowing the ins and outs of the area, and feeling a strong sense of attachment and connection to a city, that if you were to go back, it would feel like a second home. As our stay in Arizona comes to an end, Jess and I are embarking on the second half of our vacation and headed to California!

“I hopped off the plane at LAX with a dream…” Who can finish that song lyric from “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus? If you know me, California has been my dream to visit ever since I can remember, and that dream is finally coming true as Jess and I fly into Los Angeles, CA today! I am making memories with incredible friends, all while travelling the world, and taking my happiness into my own hands. Keep setting goals and striving to reach them because I am living out my dreams and it is the absolute best feeling.

Remember to stay humble and kind, always!

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xo –Jess