Feature

Hays, Kansas.

Not many have heard of this small town in the middle of Kansas, but for me, it means a lot of things.

I have driven the 5 hour road trip from Denver at least once, if not 2 or 3 times, every year of my life.

This random town to a common passerby had become a 2nd home to me.  My mom was born in Hays, Kansas, and eventually moved to Denver, but my Grandma stayed put in this little town and resided there her entire life.

When my Grandma died this past summer, I started to think how this town my family and I have been visiting my whole life, will no longer have a reason to bring us there. Visiting my Grandma took the place of “typical” family vacations because it was the only time the whole family had a few days off, so we used them to stay in Hays and check in with my mom’s mom.

As a kid, this was always annoying and I wondered why we couldn’t go somewhere cool like California or wherever my friends were going for school breaks. However, as I got older and the trips to Hays multiplied, I saw new characteristics associated with this dreaded place.

I started to see the storefronts as unique, the quiet streets as charming, and the people as kind-hearted. I realized you don’t get this same community of local, tight-knit business to resident connection in a big city like Denver. The air was fresh, and sometimes smells like the nearby cattle. The sunsets were worth watching because there were no tall buildings to block the dwindling glow of the sun’s goodbye on your skin. And the sounds of the earth were reserved and calm. All were much needed senses as my Grandma grew older.

The sun setting on Main St. in downtown Hays.
The sun setting on Main St. in downtown Hays.

As my Grandma’s health declined, our trips to Hays increased. My mom went for weeks at a time, and my family tried to visit more frequently. With each visit, we said goodbye like it would be the last time. The Coronavirus pandemic quickly worsened and restrictions were put in place, making our visits shorter and weirder.

Talking to my Grandma through a glass window.
Talking to my Grandma for one of the last times.

We could only say hi to my Grandma through a window and we spoke through the phone. It felt very much like just watching scenes go by on a television screen. We couldn’t hug her or comfort her. We just stood and watched our own interactions, without physically feeling them. She got tired and frustrated quickly, so after chatting, we would have the remainder of the day on our own in Hays. We ate at the local  restaurants, walked around Main St., stopped into the shops, and frequented the Dairy Queen drive-thru. Even though I had been coming to this town my whole life, it was just now starting to make a home in my heart.

The fact that our time was running short in Hays may have contributed to this, but nonetheless, I was glad to have my eyes opened to the beauty in such a small town.

With about 20,000 residents, Hays is not the smallest town in America by, but compared to my hometown of Denver, it has that small town feel to me. The green sign off of I-70 saying “Exit 159” has become a trigger for my muscle memory to put my shoes back on and gather my things that were spread around the car in the 5 hour drive. Depending on who was in town at this time, my family and I would either go straight to my Grandma’s house to say hello to my mom’s side of the family, or we would check in to the Marriott hotel we would be staying at.

What once used to be a chore to say hello to family I didn’t know very well, and to unpack my stuff at a chain hotel room that I am sharing with my siblings, had become a time of love for the people around me and the town that held me.

A painting of a sunflower on a wall in Hays.
Taking time to stop and notice the things around town I had missed in years past.

After my Grandma passed away, my family made the drive to Hays like we always had, but this time it was different.

My mom was already in Kansas and luckily got to see my Grandma the night before she died in her sleep. My dad drove, which was typical, but without my mom, the trip wasn’t the same. We stopped at Subway for lunch and everyone got fountain sodas, which my mom never allowed, but hey we were working through a loss in the family right? We listened to different music, no one had to stop and use the restroom, and the kids watched several movies. When my mom was with us, she always wanted to listen to her radio stations, stop at rest stops, and didn’t want the kids glued to the screen the whole drive. But, again, this trip had a different purpose.

I thought about how my Grandma and my mom have made this same drive many times in past years. I wonder how many times they had to stop, and if they would get Subway or sodas since it was just them.

For me, I looked out the window a lot more. I soaked in the views of the Kansan prairie grasses that I used to despise so much. For once, I was happy to see the cattle grazing and the flatirons spinning.

A snapshot of the views taken for my Instagram story on a drive to Hays.
A snapshot taken for my Instagram story on a drive to Hays.

When we arrived in Hays, we went straight to my Grandma’s house. Though she had been staying in a nursing home, my mom and her siblings were staying at the house. This would be the first time seeing my mom after receiving the news of my Grandma’s passing, so of course we wanted to see her and the family as soon as possible. Hugs were given, the small talk wasn’t the same as it had been all those years. There was a comfort in the air being with people who all loved my Grandma. It was more joyful than sad because my Grandma had lived a long and fulfilling life of 89 years, and the family was happy to be together. No one else was really dwelling on how this may be the last time we all gather in Hays now that my Grandma was gone, but I was thinking it.

This trip would include organizing my Grandma’s things, and a funeral, and seeing people I hadn’t seen for a bit, and though these things carried a twinge of sadness to them, there was a sense of calm and stillness. Hays had never looked better and I was grateful for the years of coming to this small town. In addition, a coffee house opened up and as an avid coffee shop lover, this just made Hays that much better. Having a nice place to go to with family members to chat and grab a coffee made the difficult time a lot easier, but I was sad to leave it.

Pictured is the local coffee house in Hays, named "Breathe."
The local coffee house in Hays, located downtown off of 9th and Main.
My younger siblings sitting in the coffee house.
My siblings posing with the decor in Breathe.

Though I had attached resentment to visiting my Grandma as “vacation” as a kid because I wanted to go to the beach with my friends for spring breaks, without these yearly trips, I would have not grown to love this small town as much as I do now.

On the drive back home from Hays, I said goodbye to my Grandma’s house, but everything else I said see you later to. Though we weren’t sure the reason my family would ever be back to Hays, I knew that I would want to come back because it became a destination in my heart.

Photo of me enjoying Kansas' beauty in a sunflower field.
Enjoying Kansas’ beauty in a sunflower field.

The simplicity of the streets, the laughter and community at the local coffee shop, and the pureness of nature fell upon me as I was in Hays this latest time. I promised myself it would not be the last.

How To

Boston is a beautiful city all times during the year, but the holiday season brings an extra sparkle to your visit. However, with this comes the cold New England weather.  This is why I decided to compile the top items you should bring for a memorable (and warm!) trip to the Northeast in the winter.

  1. Pack a versatile coat

This one seems obvious, because it is, but it is also very important. A coat will be the item you wear every day, therefore making it a priority in your packing. Bring a coat that is not only warm, but also versatile. Since coats take up a lot of space, it is easier to just pack one. So this one coat should be one that will go with whatever you are wearing and whatever occasion the day brings. This usually yields a neutral coat that can be dressed up or down.

Me pictured in Boston bundled up in my puffy coat.
Me pictured in Boston bundled up in my puffy coat.

2. Pack winter accessories

Again, this is a no-brainer, but I draw attention to it because alongside your coat, this is a make it or break it factor of your trip. Who wants to wander around a city absolutely frigid? Not me, and I don’t think you do either. To save your hands and face, I recommend bringing solid gloves and a cozy scarf. Similar to the coat, bring neutrals that will go with the rest of your outfit.

Enjoying a latte inside a coffee shop, while wearing my winter hat.
I decided to leave my hat on while enjoying a latte inside- it was too cozy!

3. Pack a variety of sweaters

From turtlenecks, to crewnecks, to light weight, to sweatshirts, a variety of sweaters will prepare you for the differing temperatures and activities during your time in Boston. I suggest bringing a nicer sweater for if you have a fancier evening planned, light weight sweaters for if the sun is out and you just need a thin layer under your coat, and sweatshirts are great for more casual outings.

I wore a turtleneck under my coat for ultimate warmth on this chilly day.
I wore a turtleneck under my coat for ultimate warmth on this chilly day.

4. Pack comfortable and thick denim

No matter what you decide to do with your time in Boston, you will want to have at least a couple of reliable pairs of denim. I find denim bottoms are the simplest staples to pack as they can be worn multiple times on your trip. Comfort and thickness is key since it will be cold and you’ll be glad to have your legs warm. Try to bring pairs that are stretchy or not too tight so you will remain comfortable doing whatever the day brings.

A shot taken after grabbing a midday coffee in my most comfortable black jeans!
A shot taken after grabbing a midday coffee in my most comfortable black jeans!

5. Pack warm and durable shoes

Lastly, don’t forget about your feet! I suggest bringing at least one pair of sneakers and one pair boots. Sneakers are great for your more active days, and boots will be good for a day when you are not walking as much, but may be outside in the inclement weather. Best to be safe and pack both!

A photo of a hilly street in Boston, you will want to be comfortable!
Comfort is key while walking the hills in Boston!

Enjoy your trip to Boston and stay warm!

Informative

Beaver Creek ranks as the ultimate destination in Colorado for many reasons. Just under 2 hours away from the city of Denver, it is the perfect weekend getaway if you live in the city or would make for a fun vacation if you are visiting from out of state. From the beautiful landscapes to the local restaurants, this mountain town is one you must put on your bucket list.

What to know before you go…

When to go:

Depending on your interests, you can enjoy Beaver Creek at any time of year. Fall is beautiful if you are hoping to see the colorful leaves and enjoy the changing weather. Winter brings ski season, which holds the main reason for many people’s travels here. Spring rounds out the ski season, and summer is a lovely time to enjoy the nature of the mountains by hiking and spending time outdoors.

A trail in the mountains boasting the fall colors.
A trail in the mountains boasting the fall colors.

Where to stay:

There are several options for lodging in and near Beaver Creek, CO. My suggestion would be the Ritz Carlton at Bachelor Gulch. Boasted atop a mountain, the views of and from this structure are unreal. The amenities and service at this establishment are quite extraordinary as well. Some of these include: pets are welcome, game room indoors and also lawn games are set up outside, a coffee shop in the lobby, an outdoor pool, and a ski lift within walking distance.

The back side of the Ritz Carlton at Bachelor's Gulch.
The back side of the Ritz Carlton at Bachelor’s Gulch.

How to get around:

The town, along with the Ritz Carlton, offers a shuttle service to easily go back and forth from the town center and the hotel. Whether you drive in or are dropped off at your lodging, you will have access to a shuttle bus to get around town with ease.

Can’t miss things:

A morning hike, a bite to eat, and a stroll around town would compose a great day. There are many trails to choose from, hosting a variety of difficulty levels. Take time to indulge in a big lunch or go out for an elegant dinner at the Ritz. Wander around Beaver Creek Village and check out the shops in this town center. This area offers art galleries, clothing stores, and sports equipment shops. In the cooler months, a skating rink can be found right in the center of Beaver Creek Village!

Food and drink:

The hotel accommodations at the Ritz Carlton offer several restaurants onsite or if you’d prefer to venture out to town there are many great choices. Some of these include: Alpine & Antlers, Dusty Boot Roadhouse, and Coyote Cafe.

Coffees from the shop inside the hotel.
Coffees from the shop inside the hotel.

Who should go:

People of all ages would enjoy a stay in Beaver Creek, CO. From families, to couples, to a group of friends, everyone could find something to do in Beaver Creek. Depending on where you stay, even pets can join in on the fun! Whether it be skiing, hiking, or relaxing in nature, this is a trip you should take.

My dog enjoying the furniture at the Ritz.
My dog enjoying the furniture at the Ritz.

Hope you are able to visit soon! Find more information on what Beaver Creek has to offer here.

Personal

How did a Colorado Native turn into an East Coast beach lover?

The sunrise over the ocean one morning in Sea Isle.
The sunrise over the ocean one morning in Sea Isle.

I will try to give you some idea:

Every August, my boyfriend’s family goes to Sea Isle City, a small island off the southern coast of New Jersey. His grandparents have had a place there since the 80’s and so the family has been vacationing there ever since. I am now fortunate enough to tag along on their yearly trip.

This past year was a bit different of course with the pandemic and COVID-19 precautions, but we decided to still make the trip happen. I think that the August 2020 trip was more impactful than the last few partly because of the timing.

I was able to find a calm and peaceful place, even amidst all the world’s craziness and uncertainty. I found a new home away from home, grounded in nature and restful in the sun’s cycle.

Dipping my toes in the water, one of my favorite pastimes at the beach!
Dipping my toes in the water, one of my favorite pastimes at the beach!

I wasn’t one for the outdoors until I frequented the beach. I say that the mountains have been calling, but when I answered, they told me to go to the beach, and then they hung up. As a Colorado native, it surprises many people that I do not ski or snowboard, or really spend much time in the mountains at all. I will go maybe 5 times a year because the mountains aren’t far for a weekend trip, and it truly is beautiful. I just don’t have the deeper connection that many others do with the mountains.

However, I found out this year in Sea Isle City, that I do appreciate nature differently and deeply at the beach.

I am dancing around on the sand while watching the sunrise over the ocean.
A dancing me viewing the sunrise over the ocean.

I attribute this to several things:

The connection to nature was found in the simpleness of a beach town, learning how to have less of a routine, take in the water’s tide, and view the sunrise and sunset. It is the simplicity of being content. I realized I don’t need a whole lot to have inner peace.

I would look at the beach and understood it offers a lot in itself: the the way the sunlight hits, the sound of the waves, the rhythm, the salt, the sand.

All of this is the Earth itself, nothing else. It works on its own. It is completely powered by nature. This place that I love so much has nothing and no one to thank but nature, and this made me start to understand and love it so much. I was able to sit there without any other stimulation, no phone, no book, no headphones, just completely in awe of this place.

Me pictured wading in the water on one of our beach days.
Pure bliss on a day spent on the beach 🙂

Now, I know there are many beaches around the world to experience very similar things. I think that is part of the beauty of it. But it was in Sea Isle that I discovered this. It was the place I had a shift in thinking. I appreciate this place because of that, and because this trip allows me to slow down. Even when I was busy with summer classes, I was able to remain relaxed on the trip.

It is things like the walk to iced coffee and bagels in the morning, the humid air of a dim morning, the carefree and childlike run towards the water, or the race towards the sunset in hopes to not miss it. The sun rise over the ocean was something I had never seen, and it was breathtaking.

A perfect day in Sea Isle would start with waking up early to catch the sunrise. I’d sit on the sand, maybe with a towel underneath, and marvel at the sun’s process. Then, it would be time to swing by the local coffee shop and grab a donut or sticky bun- I recommend Nickelby’s!

Nickelby's Deli
Nickelby’s Deli
The side of Nickelby's building.
The side of Nickelby’s building.

For this particular trip, I then had to do some school work, but being in this town and near the ocean made it so much less stressful. I had the motivation to get it done to then explore! We would either go to the beach and play games, lay out and/or actually get in the water! If it wasn’t a beach day, we might explore Sea Isle or the neighboring islands; Avalon and Stone Harbor are charming. I just would love to spend the days seeing new places, trying new things, and relaxing.

A quick shot taken on a walk home from grabbing breakfast and coffee at Nickelby's.
A quick shot taken on a walk home from grabbing breakfast and coffee at Nickelby’s.

There were less worries. Maybe it is the carefree beach town vibe, or maybe it is the fact that I knew I could catch the sunset over the bay, and that was the biggest concern for the day, to get there on time. One night I left my melting ice cream at home to run down a couple blocks to see it set over the bay.

The sun setting over the bay.
The sun setting over the bay.

The combination of the nearby beach, the salt air, the slowness, and the beauty of the ocean’s simple, yet astounding offerings make Sea Isle an escape for me, but one where I find peace in nature.

I now look forward to each August, for the chance to slow down, to take a break, to see the sun in a different place, and to feel that inner connection to the ocean.

Multimedia

Take a trip to New York City with me for my 17th birthday!
It was the middle of February in 2016, but the views were great! You will see the hotel I stayed at, the restaurant I ate at for my birthday dinner, and Times Square lit up at night. The next day I take you on a walk through Central Park and a stroll down 5th Ave, seeing sights like The Plaza Hotel and Rockefeller Center. Enjoy!

Click on the link to watch:

https://vimeo.com/469165775

Travelogue

The entrance to Greenwich Common featuring an arch with the words "Greenwich Common."
The spot of refreshment and relaxation in Greenwich. Taken August 20.

It was a warm August day on the East Coast, the noon sun was high in the sky, and the windows were down as I was scouring for a parking spot.

My boyfriend and dad were taking the day to golf in New York, so I took the car to get away and explore Greenwich, CT. I am not much of a golfer and I had an upcoming online exam, so I figured I would use my time to be productive with school and then after explore Greenwich, a town I had been dying to visit.

Luckily, I did end up finding a parking spot on Greenwich Ave., but this was soon the least of my worries. I had a loose plan held in my mind for how the day would go. I would park, walk around to see what stores and restaurants were open, sit down at one to take my exam, and then enjoy the remainder of the day shopping on the bustling road lined with shops from Tory Burch to Zara to local boutiques.

If only it were that simple.

I got out of the car, backpack on my shoulders, sunglasses on my face, ready to conquer this test and then stroll down the block. Immediately, I spotted a Starbucks right across from my parking spot and marched on over, thinking it was convenient enough. With the pandemic still being very present, I decided to peer around and see what I was working with. To my dismay, the Starbucks had no inside seating open, and they also did not have a patio. It was time for a plan B.

I wandered up and down a few blocks, not seeing any other coffee shops. I got back to the area of the Starbucks and saw a few tables set up in the street for outdoor dining. They were not attached to any specific business, and there was a table open. I snagged this table and pulled out my laptop. The placement of this seating area was just close enough to the Starbucks for me to connect to their free Wifi. Score!

I logged into the Wifi network and opened my Canvas page to then be notified by my laptop that it has 10% battery left. Are you kidding me?

There is no way that will last me long enough to get through an entire exam. Sweating from sitting in the sun and irritated from the morning’s mishaps, I decided to just walk around and try to enjoy the day.

I brought my backpack to my car while noticing my two hours were up on the meter. I got in the scorching hot black Jeep and opted to move my car to a different part of the shopping district. I found street parking on a side street one over from the main street with all the shops and begrudgingly began to window shop. I had planned on getting my schoolwork done so that I had no stress and could lollygag around Greenwich, but I was now just annoyed and had the weight of the work on me.

I happened to stumble upon a few tables and chairs on the sidewalk and looked up to see a cafe. How glorious! I peeked inside the windows and saw they have indoor seating as well! Oh joy! I scurried back to my car, grabbed my backpack and scuttled on back to the cafe of my salvation.

I walked inside and saw many two-top tables, bar seating, and a cozy nook of leather chairs. I ordered a coffee and a muffin at the counter and chose the cozy nook WITH AN OUTLET!

I happily plugged my laptop in and checked the time to see it is 1:30pm. I still have time to take this test and walk around afterwards. “Iced latte for Sophia,” is called from the bar and as I grabbed my afternoon pick me up from the counter I overheard the cashier tell a customer, “Oh yes I am sorry the Wifi is actually down today.”

Whaaatt!?

I went back to my nook, clicked on Wifi options, and saw that the cafe network will not connect. Eating my blueberry muffin and fed up with technology, I accepted defeat.

Left with no other option, I closed my laptop for the last time that day and decided to explore the city I traveled to.

I thanked the baristas and walked out of my once called salvation cafe. I brought my backpack to the car, threw it in the trunk, and only took my wallet and sunglasses with me for my next task, which is to try to have a good time exploring Greenwich.

With the knowledge that I won’t get the school work done, I moved on and immersed myself in seeing the beauty of the town. I shopped around and then went for a walk around the gorgeous neighborhood in the middle of Greenwich, CT.

Brick building with classic windows and a big tree with the sun shining through.
I totally loved the classic buildings and the simplistic charm. Taken August 20.

From the store-lined streets to the towering houses, I was in awe of expensive charm. I had never seen anything quite like it. I strolled the residential blocks and popped into a few stores, including Aritzia and Restoration Hardware. Luckily all the shops were open and welcomed customers in as long as they wore a mask due to Coronavirus precautions. I did not end up buying anything, but I tried to capture the day by taking a few photos. I always like to look back on trips and the memories are able to shine through pictures. Then I sat in the Greenwich Common, a miniature park shaded by trees, with benches for tourists to relax on and for employees to take their lunch break near.

Finally able to take a breath, I was reminded of my love of travel and the ability to experience new places. I felt a ping of sadness reflecting on the time wasted trying to be productive when in a new and breathtaking place.

I realized I was not meant to be on my computer for two hours taking an exam (that is not due for another week, might I add). I was meant to enjoy the world around me and focus on my surroundings in a new place.

Greenwich was beautiful, filled with classic architecture, an array of shops, custom homes, warm weather, and the ocean just a mile away.

As I drove back to New York to pick up the boys from golfing, I smile about my hectic yet fulfilling day.

Hydrangeas I saw on my walk around the neighborhood.
Hydrangeas are at a peak at this time in August, especially on the East Coast. I spotted these on my walk around the neighborhood. Taken August 20.
Listicle

Local businesses are booming here in Denver, especially clothing boutiques. As a fashion lover myself, I have spent my fair share of time visiting the local clothing stores Denver has to offer.

I have compiled a list of my personal favorites, differing in location, style, and price point in hopes to offer a well-rounded shopping experience!

  1. Melrose and Madison
Image taken from instagram.com/melroseandmadison

The first that comes to mind is named Melrose and Madison, which features an expansive space, which is impressive for a boutique. It is on the premium side of shopping because it carries designer brands, which come with a higher price point. I buy my denim from here because they carry the brand names I prefer, like Mother Denim and Agolde. I feel good about supporting a local shop as opposed to a department store. It is located on Old South Pearl Street, a popular place to dine, walk, and shop. Their website is currently down, but their Instagram can be found here. 

2. Pinks Denver

Image taken from https://pinksdenver.godaddysites.com/

The second store I recommend checking out is called Pinks from LA. Trendy styles “straight from L.A.” prompt an appeal to a younger crowd. Many high school and college girls shop here because of this, and because of the reasonable prices, uncommon to see at boutiques. I shop here when I need a dress for an occasion, or just if I want a new top, and I can count on not overspending. They have lots to choose from and are constantly getting in new arrivals! This shop can be found on University Blvd, in between the I-25 exit and Cherry Creek area. Stalk their Instagram here.

3. Patterns and Pops

Image taken from instragram.com/patternsandpops

Next up is this bright shop which claims to have “sweet treats for your closet” featuring bright and unique styles for women of all ages. They carry baby and kids clothes too! They keep prices on the affordable side, without sacrificing quality. Their Instagram is very popular, especially for their try-on parties, which are helpful in seeing the clothes on a person! Patterns & Pops is on a busy block near Downtown Denver, in Lohi.

4. W Boutique

Image taken from instagram.com/wboutiquedenver

W prides themself on “East Coast meets West Coast fashion” with everything under $100. They carry a variety of styles and cater to woman of all ages. For example, I consistently find things I like here, and my mom also picks out stuff she would wear! This local boutique actually boasts two locations in the Denver area, one on Old South Gaylord Street near Wash Park, and the other in Southeast Denver off of Happy Canyon Road, near Cherry Hills. See their Instagram here. 

5. Meraki Moon

Image taken from instagram.com/shopmerakimoon

Lastly, I recommend stopping at this boho-inspired boutique  It is a cozy shop with carefree, yet aesthetically pleasing merchandising. They carry a range of brands, meaning the prices vary. Personally, I remember seeing a few designer brands with a higher price tag, but they also have sales! I scored a brand name tee shirt for $20! Wedged in a strip of local businesses, you can stop by Meraki Moon in the up and coming River North neighborhood in Denver. Check out their Instagram here . 

Review

Being a coffee fanatic, I try to stay aware of any new coffee shops popping up in Denver. I was recently made aware of  Black Rock Coffee Bar opening a new location in DTC and had to give it a shot.

My first impression of the space was that it is aesthetically pleasing, has great natural light, and holds lots of seating (for when it is safe to open). The Black Rock brand is noticeable and there is a multitude of drinks to choose from. I find it convenient that you can walk inside or use their drive-thru. I was surprised that they have a drive-thru because it looks so nice from the inside! I appreciate both aspects.

I ordered a simple iced latte and my boyfriend tried one of their “premium” drinks, an iced caramel blondie. Both were delicious, but I liked the sweet drink better! Other drinks that caught my eye on the menu include classic espresso drinks, blended “chillers,” smoothies, chai tea, hot chocolate, iced tea, and even a couple energy beverages. As for food, they had a few items in the pastry case, but not much else. I recommend dining elsewhere before grabbing a drink here! The prices of the drinks were reasonable in comparison to a lot of other local coffee shops where one drink can cost you $6. At Black Rock, you can get a drink for under $5.

After browsing their website, I found out that Black Rock Coffee is a chain and they have many locations across the Western part of the U.S. I am excited to have them in Denver! They do have a rewards program, which fuels my desire to go back and try another one of their specialty drinks!

https://www.yelp.com/biz/black-rock-coffee-bar-denver?hrid=DDTM0vbGzcs99isdU-Y8ng&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)