Here is my 2024 A Year In Review. 2024 was a year of balancing a more standard work routine while still sneaking in some memorable adventures. With a few longer stays in Franklin, TN, and New York City for remote work, I got the chance to mix business with a little exploration. Though I didn’t quite meet my ambitious 52-week hiking challenge, I still managed to squeeze in about 34 hikes, which gave me the opportunity to discover some incredible new trails. A big shout-out to the AllTrails app (not sponsored, just a huge fan!)—it made finding and navigating new trails a breeze. Even without hitting my original goal, the year was filled with moments outdoors that made every step worthwhile.
A Year In Review…
Went back to Art Week in Mexico City
My friends and I had such an incredible time exploring Mexico City last year that we couldn’t resist going back for a second adventure. This time, the highlight of our trip was uncovering the enchanting Quetzalcóatl Park, a stunning masterpiece of organic architecture crafted by the visionary Javier Senosiain.
Joined the “Mod Squad” for Modernism Week
I had the amazing opportunity to join the “Mod Squad” for Modernism Week, capturing photos and videos for the organization. The experience was unforgettable, from attending the dazzling opening disco party to exploring an impressive lineup of beautifully designed homes.
Attended Lightning in a Bottle
I returned to LIB for the second year, soaking in incredible performances from Labrinth, M.I.A, Bob Moses, Fatboy Slim, RÜFÜS Du Sol, Glass Beams, Tycho, and many more.
Spent a month in Franklin, Tennessee
When my in-laws went on vacation, they needed someone to take care of their adorable Golden Doodle, Ruby. We decided it would be easy for us to pack up, stay at their place, and work remotely while helping out. It also gave us the chance to explore Franklin, Tennessee, and try out some new hikes. As a bonus, my friend’s bachelorette party happened to be in Nashville at the same time—what a blast!
Went Beercycling in Belgium
Years ago, my friend Evan was launching a company called Beercycling, organizing brewery tours in Belgium by bike. At the time, I was just starting my career and volunteered to help him with the company’s branding. He promised me a free tour once things took off. After years of invitations, I finally took him up on the offer and headed to Europe for an unforgettable adventure filled with bikes, beer, and all things Belgian. To make it even more special, I was joined by my former boss and friend from my Sephora days, Robin.
Returned to the office
I left San Francisco in 2014 and have been fully remote ever since. After 10 years of working from home, I’m transitioning back to office life at the L.A. Walmart Creative Studio location. It’s a big change, but refreshing to connect with new faces and experience office culture again.
Renovated Yucca Valley House
Adam and I made our first house purchase in 2012, choosing to invest in a rental property since buying a home for ourselves wasn’t within reach at the time. Fast forward 12 years, it was time for a renovation to keep the house in good shape. I spent countless nights and weekends traveling to the desert, planning, and meeting with contractors on-site. We repainted the entire house inside and out, installed AC and heating, added central lighting throughout, and replaced all the flooring. My parents were an incredible help throughout the process—I’m so grateful for them!
Spent quality time with my parents
My parents are my greatest inspiration—they’re always ready for a new adventure! This year, we explored quite a bit together close to home, including discovering new hikes and sights in Joshua Tree and enjoying a show and house tour in Palm Springs. I truly cherish the time we get to spend together.
Enjoyed the Fall in NYC
For the third year in a row, Adam and I spent three weeks in NYC, and it was just as thrilling as ever. Some of the highlights included immersing ourselves in the interactive play Sleep No More and exploring the mesmerizing Mercer Labs exhibit. Another unforgettable experience was our visit to the Bronx Zoo, topped off by an electric bike ride from Lower Manhattan all the way to Washington Heights to visit The Met Cloisters. I didn’t take any amazing photos, but here are some random iPhone pics!
Visited Pinnacles National Park
I dream of visiting all the U.S. National Parks someday! California, with the most parks of any state—nine in total—offers plenty of opportunities to explore. On a recent road trip with Adam to visit friends in Guerneville, we crossed another park off our list: Pinnacles National Park. This lesser-known, relatively small park in Central California surprised us with its beauty. The Condor Gulch to High Peaks Trail turned out to be one of the most memorable hikes I’ve done in a while. The trail featured an incredible mix of scenery—mossy walls, towering rock formations, steep pathways with guardrails, a scenic lookout at Condor Gulch, a reservoir, and even some caves. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Went to Guerneville for NYE
We had an amazing New Year’s Eve celebrating with close friends in Guerneville—hiking, hot tubbing, sipping wine, and repeating the cycle. It was such a joy to unwind at a cozy cabin and spend quality time with people we love. Simple, relaxing, and unforgettable!
Looking back at a year in review, 2024 was all about finding balance—between work and travel, routine and spontaneity, goals and enjoyment. While I didn’t check off every challenge I set for myself, I still managed to create lasting memories, explore incredible places, and push myself to try new things. From returning to favorite destinations to discovering new ones, each experience added a little more excitement to the year. Here’s to embracing the journey, setting new goals, and seeing what adventures 2025 has in store!
One Response
You are an inspiration and it looks like you’re continuing to live life to the fullest.
Keep up the posts as I bookmark so many as my “next adventure.”
Much love to you and Adam xoxo