Summer Memories, Fall Beginnings & Adventures Ahead

Fall has arrived in the Pacific Northwest, and I’m reflecting on a summer filled with family, Yellowstone, travel—and looking ahead to our adventures in 2027.

Who loves the Fall as I do?

fall adventures — I went nuts at our local farm stand! The large pumpkin at the back is 44 pounds!

It is rare to find someone who doesn’t love the Fall season. Back when I was a kid, I looked forward to all the new fall programming on television, shopping for school supplies and new clothes, and starting school again. There was something exciting about it—a fresh start and a new season ahead.

I still feel that way about Fall, although my version of a fresh start looks a little different these days. Instead of shopping for school supplies, I look forward to Fall planting in my yard, cooler temperatures, and decorating my porch. And when I say decorating my porch, I mean I have a plan!

I ease into the Fall season with a new project each year. This year, I grew a specific hydrangea variety and created two wreaths for my front double doors. I added pumpkins and a few other touches, and that’s my September look. In October, I keep the same base of pots, flowers, and pumpkins, but add a Halloween theme. Then, in November, the wreaths become more leaf-focused, and the porch takes on a subtle Thanksgiving feel.

I know, it’s a lot. But I love it so much! I do it for the few people who visit and, honestly, for me. Sometimes we should simply do the things that make us happy.

And Fall brings some of my favorite things: pumpkin everything, Halloween, cozy evenings and, of course, cooler weather and changing leaves.

That’s not to say I don’t enjoy summer. I absolutely do. Walking on a beach, drinks and dinner outside, blue skies and relaxing vacations—what’s not to love?

Summer Adventures!

This summer, however, was a busy one for us. We packed a lot into a short time, and now that I look back, I realize just how many wonderful memories we made.

My niece got married in Montana, and it was such a dream. Everything was incredible, beautiful, thoughtful and full of those “we will never forget this” moments. It was one of those weekends that you wish you could bottle up and keep forever.

We also made a trip back to California to visit family, where we enjoyed pool time and a Dodgers game with four generations of our family. Who can say that? I could slurp up those moments with a spoon. We are so fortunate.

We loved our time in Yellowstone National Park, too. We stayed at the historic Old Faithful Inn, which was an excellent location, although the food needs a lof of work! Fortunately, the food was quickly forgotten when we were surrounded by bison sightings, colorful geysers, and those incredible mountain landscapes. Spending four days in Yellowstone National Park was honestly one of the highlights of our summer.

The Old Faithful Inn was so beautiful – however, no WiFi and no A/C. In July, that is tough! However, the architecture is exquisite, and the proximity to the Old Faithful geyser is unsurpassed. I recommend one night here!

Now we’re looking ahead to what’s next.

We’ll be heading back to Sedona, Arizona, for some hiking, rest and relaxation, followed by Maui for our anniversary. We’ll be celebrating 42 years of marriage. That deserves a special vacation, don’t you think?

Maybe that’s another reason I love Fall. It feels like a natural time to pause and reflect on the season we just enjoyed while also thinking about what adventures are waiting around the corner.

So, have you started decorating for Fall? Or is it still too hot where you are?

Here in the Northwest, the temperatures have cooled a little, and I’m beginning to see the first leaves starting to turn. I love this time of year.

What Are You Planning for 2027?

What adventures do you have planned for 2027?

Speaking of what’s ahead, have you started thinking about your travel plans for 2027?

If you’re planning a big trip, now is a great time to start. And if you’re using miles and points, planning early is especially important. The best flight times and award availability can disappear quickly.

And if Tuscany has been on your travel wish list, I have something very special to share.

Come to Tuscany With Us

The conclusion of an extraordinary chef-prepared meal at iCastagni

Many of you have asked about coming to Tuscany with me, and that is exactly why I created Travel Connections Tours.

I wanted to create the kind of travel experience I love most—one where we have time to slow down, enjoy beautiful places, eat wonderful food, drink great wine and really connect with the people and culture around us.

We don’t rush from hotel to hotel. We unpack once and make our home in a beautiful little corner of Tuscany. From there, we explore some of my favorite hilltop towns, share incredible meals and wine, and experience the Tuscany that I have come to love over the years.