Come with me as I return to a city I once desperately wanted to call home but never did. At eighteen I dreamed of moving to Seattle for theater school, of stepping into an arts scene that shimmered with possibility. Life carried me elsewhere, and that dream still lingers in the depths of the most hidden doors of my heart.

Now, twenty years later, I walk back through the city to see how it has changed and how I have too. I dive into the tourist landmarks. I wander Capitol Hill where I nearly studied art and theater. I eat sushi and marvel at the Space Needle. Along the way I learn how the futures we plan do not always unfold. Sometimes that is the hidden gift.

This is a story of time travel. It is a journey to heal the parts of us we leave behind. It is a reminder to move forward with gratitude, with strength, and with the quiet magic that waits when we finally open the door.

In 2020 the sky went dark at noon. Ash fell like snow, and towns along the Santiam Pass vanished overnight. Out of the fire came not just loss, but a surge of generosity and care.

This post is both a reflection and a guide. You’ll find practical steps to prepare your home and family, what to do during an evacuation, and how to recover after. Together, we can face the fires ahead with resilience, readiness, and care for one another.

Local, fresh, iconic- here are 21 places to find chowder, oysters, Mac and cheese, shakes, and more on the Oregon Coast.

Just got back from Gold Hill and, unfortunately, I’m officially "Rogue Sick"—can’t stay away from those waters. I’m hooked on the Rogue River, thanks to Sawyer Station’s incredible outfitter setup. They’ve got everything for DIY water adventurers, from handcrafted paddles to custom rafts and oars.

I kicked off the paddle season in April, but my love for the Rogue River goes way back. Whether it’s watching bears and turkeys by the river or zipping and rafting down Class IV rapids, the Rogue’s magic has always drawn me in.

Recently, I got a taste of fly fishing and found my new passion. With a bit of instruction from Jim of Andras Outfitters and some beautiful casts, I’m hooked on the art of fly fishing. Each cast, each moment on the river, is a reminder to slow down and enjoy the journey.

Gold Hill and the Rogue Valley are treasures in Oregon, filled with peace and adventure. If you’re near, drop by Sawyer Station and start your own adventure.

Spooky, strange, historical—three of my favorite words! The Daniel Delaney House in Turner, Oregon, is one of the state’s oldest homes, built by Delaney himself around 1845. This house has seen its share of activity, both during Delaney’s lifetime and after his tragic murder on the expansive wrap-around porch.

On a sweltering August night, I joined a paranormal investigation team and two psychics for an unforgettable experience. Having lived in a haunted brothel in Bend, I thought I was prepared, but something about this 178-year-old house felt different.

As I drove through the mountains and past the Enchanted Forest (another eerie spot in Turner), I was greeted by Tim tinkering with a drone and Vicki, a warm and welcoming soul with purple hair. After exploring the home’s eclectic mix of antiques and oddities, we set up for the night’s investigation, including a Spirit Tea with the psychics.

Maggie and Sherrie, seasoned mediums, began their readings. Maggie’s mention of the Archangel Azrael caught my attention, and I was moved when she unexpectedly spoke of my late grandfather, confirming his presence and guidance. Spirits shared messages with the guests, offering comfort and closure.

The investigation was intense! Using an SLS camera, we saw a ghostly figure in the shower, interacting with us in real time. Later, while sitting in Mr. Delaney’s bedroom, the flashlight flickered in response to my questions, and we even engaged in a ritualistic toast on the porch, honoring the house's history.