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Year in Review 2016

January 3, 2017 by Valerie Mitchell

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Food and Travel Blogger Year in Review - Where I went, where I slept, what I ate and what I did!

Are you ready for 2017?

Each January I reflect upon the previous year and make plans and set goals for the new year. A business and personal goal for 2016 was to go on at least a dozen trips, and I’m happy that I made it happen! I had a great time exploring my local Southern California area and also traveled out of state and internationally on sponsored media trips.

I write about my food travel, restaurants and other foodie adventures on Mama Likes To Cook. My articles about travel activities, destinations and accommodations can be found on Valerie Was Here.

Food and Travel Blogger Year in Review - Where I went, where I slept, what I ate and what I did!

I traveled quite a bit in Southern California. Even though I’ve lived in the area my entire life and have been to all of these cities before, it was a great to stay in hotels and experience them in a whole new way as a traveler. I loved it!

Palm Springs is a great spot for a desert getaway with culture, nature, food, shopping and fun. Long Beach has a museums and outdoor art, family activities, excellent restaurants, gorgeous views and a rich history. I visited the trendy Hard Rock Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego and the beautiful Marriott Coronado Island across the bay. I enjoyed the relaxing vibe of the San Jacinto Valley and the tall trees of Idyllwild.

Closer to home, I stayed at The Ranch at Laguna Beach that has captured the relaxing essence of the SoCal lifestyle and the luxurious Fairmont Newport Beach. Also had fun at Disneyland.

Food and Travel Blogger Year in Review - Where I went, where I slept, what I ate and what I did!

I also explored the Northern California coast with an road trip that covered a lot of miles from Sonoma County up to Little River, Mendocino, Fort Bragg, Redwood National Park, Eureka, Trinidad and almost up to the Oregon Border. On another road trip, I spent time exploring Carmel Valley, Carmel by The Sea, Big Sur and Monterey.

This was also a year for using my passport. I went to the Dominican Republic for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed learning about the culture and meeting locals. This was a cruise and I made some great friends on board and also went to Miami for the first time.

Since Mexico is so close, I’ve been many times over the years. In 2016, I traveled by car to Tijuana and Rosarito Beach. I also traveled by air further south to Puerto Vallarta. Looking forward to going back to Mexico again soon, since I always have a great time.

Food and Travel Blogger Year in Review - Where I went, where I slept, what I ate and what I did!

My goal for 2017 is 20 trips. Do you think I’ll make it?

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Food and Travel Blogger Year in Review - Where I went, where I slept, what I ate and what I did!

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Food and Travel Blogger Year in Review - Where I went, where I slept, what I ate and what I did!

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Filed Under: Adventures, Los Angeles, Orange County, Travel Tagged With: amazon, amazon gift card, gift card giveaway, year in review

Previous Post: « 175 Best Superfood Blender Recipes
Next Post: Disney! Disney! Disney! New Movies for 2017! »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Lisa Brown says

    January 4, 2017 at 12:56 am

    All the photos look great, the food especially

  2. Janet W. says

    January 4, 2017 at 3:43 am

    I would love to travel more in 2017. I love to read about your experiences!

  3. EMMA L HORTON says

    January 4, 2017 at 4:50 am

    WHAT A WONDERFUL YEAR YOU HAD…HOPE THIS ONE IS EVEN BETTER..

  4. Cynthia Conle says

    January 4, 2017 at 4:51 am

    It was quite a year. On to the next one!

  5. Debbi Wellenstein says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:16 am

    The sunset on the water picture is gorgeous!

  6. Nancy says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:22 am

    I enjoy seeing the places you’ve visited and the items you’ve cooked.

  7. mami2jcn says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:34 am

    Happy New Year! Thanks for the giveaway.

  8. Christina Sparks says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:39 am

    I am hoping to go on a trip with my husband for our anniversary this year, it been almost 6 yrs since we went on vacation.

  9. Mia says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:45 am

    You have really had so many fun experiences last year. Thanks for sharing them with us.

  10. June S. says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:00 am

    The blue water pictures look like a place where I would love to be right now, it was a whopping 8 degrees here in Illinois this morning.

  11. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:31 am

    Christina – Oh no! It’s definitely time for a vacay!

  12. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:31 am

    Thanks, Debbi!

  13. Suzanne K says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:53 am

    I’m also doing a lot of local So Cal exploring, but want to add a trip to Italy as well!

  14. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:13 am

    Oooh. Italy sounds great, Suzanne!

  15. Maureen says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:19 am

    A resolution for travel would be good. Just to be able to explore new places is exciting.

  16. Kelly Kimmell says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:34 am

    Happy New Year! Great pics, thanks for the chance to win.

  17. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:36 am

    Thanks, Kelly! Happy New Year to you, too.

  18. Chyanne Corley says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:16 am

    Such an awesome giveaway! thanks so much for the opportunity. :)

  19. Jason says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:50 am

    Exciting 2016, can only mean an even better 2017.

  20. ANN*H says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:57 am

    Lots of great pictures and descriptions of the places to check out- thanks

  21. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:02 am

    That’s what I’m hoping for, Jason!

  22. Adrienne says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:25 am

    Great pictures! Thank you for the chance to win!

  23. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:46 am

    Thanks, Adrienne!

  24. Janet Woodling says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:47 am

    Enjoy all your future travels.

  25. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:50 am

    Thank you, Janet!

  26. Steven EPSTEIN says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:55 am

    You always have such gorgeous pictures on your website. Thank you for the chance.

  27. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 12:03 pm

    Thank you, Steven!

  28. paige chandler says

    January 4, 2017 at 1:16 pm

    I buy just about everything on Amazon these days,

  29. Natalie says

    January 4, 2017 at 1:50 pm

    I have always wanted to visit Puerto Vallarta and the Dominican Republic!

  30. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 2:01 pm

    Natalie – I enjoyed both and am happy that I was able to meet locals and learn more about their cultures.

  31. David Hollingsworth says

    January 4, 2017 at 2:02 pm

    I just love shopping online, because it is pretty convenient. Amazon makes that easy.

  32. Joannie says

    January 4, 2017 at 2:33 pm

    Happy 2017. Hope you make more than 20 trips and that all the places you visit are as lovely as this one.

  33. Susan Smith says

    January 4, 2017 at 2:48 pm

    I love shopping at Amazon

  34. Kristen says

    January 4, 2017 at 2:51 pm

    I also love exploring around the area I live…there is always something new to see!

  35. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 3:03 pm

    Thanks, Joannie!

  36. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 3:10 pm

    Yes! Far way trips are nice, but it’s great to keep our eyes open for new things everyday!

  37. Linda G. says

    January 4, 2017 at 4:56 pm

    Happy New Year, I would like to travel more this new year!

  38. Erin Will says

    January 4, 2017 at 5:04 pm

    I am excited to see what 2017 brings! Hope there is a lot more traveling and beach time for sure! Thank you!

  39. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 5:08 pm

    An excellent goal, Linda!

  40. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 5:08 pm

    Beach and travel are both great ideas, Erin!

  41. Marcia says

    January 4, 2017 at 5:34 pm

    wow! what great adventures!

  42. Vanessa says

    January 4, 2017 at 5:50 pm

    The food photos are making me hungry! :)

  43. Annette Rosenberg says

    January 4, 2017 at 6:11 pm

    Seems like a great goal for the year, I’m sure you can make it!

  44. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 6:13 pm

    Thank you, Annette!

  45. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 6:13 pm

    Thanks, Marcia!

  46. HS says

    January 4, 2017 at 6:51 pm

    Thank you! I would like to get a Kindle.

  47. Heather M. says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:24 pm

    Good luck to all. Happy New Year.

  48. mrsshukra says

    January 4, 2017 at 7:55 pm

    Great photos! Thanks!!!!

  49. Jeffrey says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:11 pm

    Love using amazon.com to shop for loved ones.

  50. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:17 pm

    Thanks, Mrs. Shukra!

  51. Richard Brandt says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:27 pm

    I hope you hit your goal. Travel to new places is the best!

  52. Emily R. says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:27 pm

    Beautiful photos! Hope you have a wonderful 2017!

  53. Adriane says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:44 pm

    What an exciting and colorful year!! And I KNOW you can do 20 trips :) I miss traveling – maybe this year I can take a trip

  54. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:55 pm

    Adriane – Would be great for you to travel this year!

  55. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:55 pm

    Thank you, Emily!

  56. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 8:56 pm

    Thanks, Richard!

  57. Claire M says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:02 pm

    I hope we BOTH get to travel a lot this year!

  58. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:39 pm

    Me, too, Claire!

  59. Cynthia L Mercado says

    January 4, 2017 at 9:59 pm

    I can always use an Amazon gift card for our homeschooling supplies.

  60. FRANK says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:02 pm

    Thanks for the giveaway

  61. Leela says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:18 pm

    Thanks for the giveaway!

  62. Kelly Nicholson says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:30 pm

    always need amazon cash thanks

  63. YVONNE WOODSTOCK says

    January 4, 2017 at 10:32 pm

    I-would-love-to-hear-your-experienced-opinion-and-advice-about-traveling/visiting-Mexico…Growing-up-I-always-assumed-I-would-visit-someday-but-then-in-more-recent-years-when-I-can-fiinally-afford-to-and-have-time-to-do-so…I-noticed-on-the.U.S.government’s-passport/travel-site-(last-time-I-looked)..that-Mexico-was-one-of-the-places-they-had-travel-advisories-suggesting-it-is-not-safe-to-visit-there-and-heard-so-much-from-various-news-sources-after-the-last-so-many-years-about-the-danger-and-violence-even-sometimes-randomly-in-otherwise-lovely-tourist/resort-areas-due-to-the-drug-cartel-and-such?—Ever-since-then..I-stopped-entering-giveaways-to-win-trips-there-or-anything-because-now-I’m-afraid..but-I-see-your-experiences-have-been-numerous-and-good-so-I’d-love-to-hear-your-perspective.-Thank-you.

  64. Yona Williams says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:00 pm

    I’ve never traveled to Mexico before….maybe one day. Hope you have a prosperous and fun-filled 2017.

  65. Renee Walters says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:47 pm

    Happy travels and thanks for the great giveaway!

  66. Anita E says

    January 4, 2017 at 11:49 pm

    I’m addicted to Amazon so, yes, I need this win. Happy New Year everyone!

  67. Julie Lundstrom says

    January 5, 2017 at 12:01 am

    I would love this to help me organize my home.

  68. Mary Beth Elderton says

    January 5, 2017 at 2:10 am

    We are just a few years out from retirement and are looking forward to travel! I hope everyone here has a great year.

  69. Maryann D. says

    January 5, 2017 at 2:31 am

    I would love to win this Amazon.com $50 Gift Card for my daughter who loves shopping on Amazon.

  70. Lois M. says

    January 5, 2017 at 4:13 am

    Oh lordy, totally jealous of all the traveling! :) Well, most especially of going to Disney… me, definitely none except of the many geology field trips I had to do in my state for my classes, but definitely not the same by any stretch of the imagination – you didn’t have to get graded on the reports and maps. ;)

  71. Linda Svarovsky says

    January 5, 2017 at 5:36 am

    I would use this to buy my mom a gift.

  72. vickie couturier says

    January 5, 2017 at 5:47 am

    enjoy the traveling while you are still young enought to enjoy it,now that i have some time and im not physically able to go as much as i would like

  73. Michelle S says

    January 5, 2017 at 6:55 am

    We did quite a bit of traveling this past year – Bahamas/Virgin Islands cruise, Disney World, and Door County. This year we are going to New Orleans and possibly Denver this summer for a wedding.

  74. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:02 am

    Michelle – Your 2016 travels sound like lots of fun. I’m hoping to head to New Orleans this year, as well!

  75. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:03 am

    Vickie – Hope you are able to find some great experiences that will work for you this year!

  76. Morgan Stewart says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:05 am

    Love your stories! I am hoping to travel this year as well.

  77. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:05 am

    Lois – School is definitely work, but your geology trips sounds fascinating!

  78. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:06 am

    Very exciting, Mary Beth! Hope you have fun dreaming and planning for your retirement.

  79. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:08 am

    Thank you, Yona! Have enjoyed each of my Mexico trips, but there is still a lot more to see in this large country!

  80. Kristie says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:21 am

    All the food pictures look delicious! Thank you for the chance to win! :-)

  81. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:57 am

    Thank you, Kristie!

  82. Marlene V. says

    January 5, 2017 at 8:34 am

    Thanks for the chance to win.

  83. Lesley F says

    January 5, 2017 at 8:41 am

    Happy New Year!

  84. Sheila Russell says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:10 am

    Travel opens up a whole world, great to hear that you hit your goal in 2016, hopefully you meet all your goals for 2017

  85. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:12 am

    Thank you, Sheila!

  86. luc says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:16 am

    win

  87. Jan Lee says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:17 am

    Happy 2017! Hope to see more recipes and giveaways in the new year!

  88. clojo9372 says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:21 am

    How exciting it must be to have the opportunity to travel and see exciting places. Wish I could! I hope you can meet your goal! :)

  89. Michelle says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:31 am

    What a great giveaway!

  90. Ashley M says

    January 5, 2017 at 10:38 am

    I have never been on a vacation as an adult! I think it is wonderful that you get the opportunity to do so! I think it would be so much fun to travel and try new foods! Thanks for the chance to win <3 Happy New Year!

  91. Christy Maurer says

    January 5, 2017 at 10:56 am

    It looks like you had a great year! I’d love to visit some of these places too.

  92. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 11:09 am

    Ashley – Perhaps, this is the year you will start a new trend for yourself! :)

  93. Debbie F says

    January 5, 2017 at 11:47 am

    Wow I’d love to be able to travel as much as you do!
    I hope you get to travel to many more places in 2017!

  94. Cathy French says

    January 5, 2017 at 1:53 pm

    What an exciting year you’ve had and with 20 trips this year, I think you can do it, you’ll have a banner year 2017 as well.

  95. Minta Boggs says

    January 5, 2017 at 1:53 pm

    Gorgeous pictures! I wish my pictures came out half that good!

  96. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 2:19 pm

    Thanks, Minta! I use my Samsung mobile phone and love the picture quality.

  97. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 2:19 pm

    Thank you, Cathy!

  98. Sarah B. says

    January 5, 2017 at 2:47 pm

    I use Amazon waaaaay too much. Seriously, I’m on there almost daily! $50 would certainly help, thanks for another great giveaway

  99. Calvin F. says

    January 5, 2017 at 3:03 pm

    Some very nice photos you put together.

  100. Kristi F says

    January 5, 2017 at 3:23 pm

    20 trips is a big goal but certainly a great traveller can do it. There’s nothing like traveling for experiencing the world and meeting new people.

  101. Karen Thaeter says

    January 5, 2017 at 5:23 pm

    Thank you for this giveaway!

  102. ewhatley says

    January 5, 2017 at 5:58 pm

    Love shopping on Amazon. Would love $50 to spend on my wish list.

  103. shan says

    January 5, 2017 at 7:37 pm

    You’ve had some really great adventures! I hope some day I get to so many of these places.

  104. Kristin C says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:03 pm

    Happy New Year and safe travels!

  105. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 9:04 pm

    Thank you, Kristin!

  106. Cindy B says

    January 5, 2017 at 10:12 pm

    Congrats on another fun and successful year!

  107. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 5, 2017 at 10:14 pm

    Thank you, Cindy!

  108. Edmond says

    January 6, 2017 at 12:55 am

    Thank you for the awesomeness, the contest, and generosity. :)

  109. Julie Waldron says

    January 6, 2017 at 6:50 am

    Thank you for the opportunity to win! I love Amazon :)

  110. Kymi A says

    January 6, 2017 at 7:31 am

    I love your travel goals I think you can do all 20 trips with organization and planning ahead, you’ll enjoy your journey. My goal is to visit a state I have never been before like California. Good luck in your travels and Happy New Year.

  111. Rachel says

    January 6, 2017 at 7:38 am

    Amazon is my favourite place to shop online

  112. Carol says

    January 6, 2017 at 7:56 am

    Thank you for this giveaway!

  113. Jennifer L. says

    January 6, 2017 at 8:24 am

    What a year you’ve had! I’d love to visit some of those places.

  114. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 6, 2017 at 9:15 am

    Thanks, Kymi! Hope you reach your goal this year, too!

  115. andie says

    January 6, 2017 at 10:15 am

    A perfect way to start the new year – thanks.

  116. Casey Everidge says

    January 6, 2017 at 11:12 am

    this would help out with my home improvement goals!

  117. Angela Saver says

    January 6, 2017 at 11:51 am

    I would love to do the traveling you do in California! I really enjoy your pictures!

  118. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 6, 2017 at 12:11 pm

    Thank you, Angela!

  119. Danalee says

    January 6, 2017 at 12:49 pm

    Thank you for the great giveaway and chance to win!

  120. Karen A. says

    January 6, 2017 at 5:03 pm

    I have never shopped at Amazon. This would give me the chance to do so.

  121. ger says

    January 6, 2017 at 6:34 pm

    Yes, you will make it! I love seeing all the places you travel, thank you!

  122. Julie Lundstrom says

    January 6, 2017 at 8:56 pm

    Those are some really nice pictures. It looks like a wonderful vacation.

  123. Rita M says

    January 6, 2017 at 9:40 pm

    So many books & so little time… this is a great giveaway, thanks for the chance!

  124. Kym says

    January 6, 2017 at 11:20 pm

    Looking forward to a wonderful year fulfilling my heart’s desires! Happy New Year and happy travels!

  125. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 7, 2017 at 12:26 am

    Sounds wonderful, Kim. Happy New Year!

  126. Marilyn Nawara says

    January 7, 2017 at 9:08 am

    Amazon is my favorite way to shop!

  127. James Coyne says

    January 7, 2017 at 9:23 am

    Happy New Year Everyone

  128. Michelle C says

    January 7, 2017 at 9:29 am

    Traveling more is on my wish list! I don’t have a ton of time off from my job, but my family and I try to go on a few trips each year.

  129. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 7, 2017 at 9:39 am

    Michelle – Hope you are able to go on some fun ones this year!

  130. JENN SPARKS says

    January 7, 2017 at 9:59 am

    You have gone to so many great places!! Your photos are marvelous. I went to the Redwood park 24 years ago and it was amazing.

  131. Courtney h says

    January 7, 2017 at 12:50 pm

    Thank you, Amazon has a great selection and I love prime.

  132. Darlene Carbajal says

    January 7, 2017 at 2:46 pm

    Awesome!

  133. Laura Collins says

    January 7, 2017 at 3:56 pm

    This is a great giveaway. Have a great year

  134. Kate F. says

    January 7, 2017 at 8:18 pm

    It sounds like you had a fun year! Thanks for the giveaway.

  135. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 7, 2017 at 8:24 pm

    I did! Thanks, Kate!

  136. Audrey T says

    January 8, 2017 at 9:41 am

    You’ve traveled so much, that’s wonderful! I wish my family could do the same.

  137. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 8, 2017 at 11:15 am

    Even cheap and easy ‘local travels’ can be wonderful!

  138. bn100 says

    January 8, 2017 at 3:51 pm

    all look like fun places to go

  139. Marcia says

    January 8, 2017 at 5:34 pm

    I hope this year is wonderful, too!

  140. Chrystal D says

    January 8, 2017 at 10:32 pm

    All of those food pictures made me HUNGRY!

  141. Michelle H. says

    January 9, 2017 at 9:56 am

    I have been to some of the places you listed in California. I would like to take more trips.

  142. Dayle B says

    January 9, 2017 at 5:02 pm

    Enjoyed you unique and sunny looking pics,
    as I am looking out my window at SNOW.
    Your pics made me HAPPY.
    Love your recipes too.

  143. Shelley P says

    January 9, 2017 at 6:18 pm

    All the food looks great! I hope to do some traveling soon :)

  144. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 9, 2017 at 7:22 pm

    Thanks, Dayle! Enjoy your snow! :)

  145. sandra says

    January 10, 2017 at 1:12 pm

    i could use this to put towards our new home’s furnishings

  146. stephanie says

    January 11, 2017 at 4:46 pm

    i wanna win amazon!

  147. Amy Deeter says

    January 11, 2017 at 5:50 pm

    Amazon is my favorite site, and i love my amazon prime. So worth the price

  148. Cheryl Chervitz says

    January 11, 2017 at 9:16 pm

    Happy New Year and Thank you. I could use this for a lot of things on Amazon.

  149. Louise M says

    January 12, 2017 at 7:08 am

    Love to browse on Amazon and would be great to buy a gift for some one special for their birthday coming up in March, 2017

  150. Louise M says

    January 12, 2017 at 7:12 am

    Love to be all year round on Laguna Beach.

  151. DeeAnn says

    January 12, 2017 at 12:18 pm

    Ever since the kids were small, on a Saturday or Sunday we’d pack the cooler full of food, grab a bag full of toys, games and such, and head down a road we’ve never been on before. You’d be surprised what you run into, and the sights you see. My kids are much older now, but I think I’d like to start doing the day trip think again.

  152. Darren Scrubb says

    January 12, 2017 at 12:40 pm

    Great giveaway to start the New Year.

  153. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 12, 2017 at 12:56 pm

    DeeAnn – At any age, that sounds like a wonderful tradition!

  154. Karen says

    January 13, 2017 at 4:29 am

    I travel through some of your adventures. Love taking road trips though. Been up and down the east coast. Good luck on hitting 20 trips this year.

  155. Kristie Wendland says

    January 13, 2017 at 9:49 am

    Hey there! I absolutely love Southern California! Disneyland is truly the best place on Earth!

  156. Janice Wright says

    January 13, 2017 at 10:19 am

    I have a Pinterest page entitled Iowa Bucket List. These are short little road trips fairly close to my residence.

  157. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 13, 2017 at 3:07 pm

    What a great idea, Janice!

  158. Heather! says

    January 13, 2017 at 9:09 pm

    20 trips for this year? Heck, yeah, you can do it! It’s a lot, but you can do it! :)

  159. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 13, 2017 at 9:52 pm

    Thanks, Heather! Working on it :)

  160. Katie Ellis says

    January 14, 2017 at 8:53 pm

    I have never been to California but would love to visit there someday. I have visited different places in my state but there is still a lot I haven’t seen.

  161. Stephanie LaPlante says

    January 15, 2017 at 9:41 am

    I wish you the best of luck for this year’s travels! My New Years is full of goals as well.

  162. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 15, 2017 at 11:08 am

    Thank you, Stephanie! Hope you reach your goals, too!

  163. Julie Lundstrom says

    January 15, 2017 at 11:22 am

    I don’t get to travel so seeing and reading about your travels makes me feel like I have been there too.

  164. polly says

    January 15, 2017 at 12:01 pm

    When you were in Northern California you were close to where I live…so many beautiful places to see! Have fun with all of t=your travel adventures!

  165. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 15, 2017 at 12:45 pm

    Polly – Love visiting Northern California and plan to explore more this year!

  166. Kelly says

    January 15, 2017 at 1:57 pm

    I think that you will make it. It certainly looks like you have a blast no matter where you are :) I used to travel a lot and I miss it. I think I will join you in making a goal of going on more adventures.

  167. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 15, 2017 at 2:10 pm

    Thanks, Kelly!

  168. Victoria Scott says

    January 16, 2017 at 7:44 pm

    I’m hoping that 2017 is the best year yet!!

  169. Mary Mac says

    January 17, 2017 at 5:09 am

    I live on the East Coast and don’t make it very often to visit the West Coast, I love reading your fun stories and adventures.

  170. Ruth McIver says

    January 17, 2017 at 6:08 am

    Time to visit a travel agent. Everyone’s photos of their experiences in travel makes me want to see a pretty sunset or taste a new cuisine.

  171. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 17, 2017 at 9:58 am

    Ruth – Hope you have some wonderful adventures this year!

  172. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 17, 2017 at 9:59 am

    Thank you, Mary! NYC is the only place I’ve been on the East Coast, so far. Hope to explore your area more.

  173. almavidrio says

    January 17, 2017 at 1:08 pm

    This would be an amazing win. I would use it to buy a tortilla press because I love to cook Mexican food! Thanks!

  174. katklaw777 says

    January 17, 2017 at 10:09 pm

    20 trips…I bet you go over! Well at least you will have a heck of a lot of fun trying…lol
    Happy and healthy New Year to You!

  175. Laura Collins says

    January 17, 2017 at 10:57 pm

    https://twitter.com/sweepcoupon/status/821611443598585856

  176. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 17, 2017 at 11:54 pm

    Thank you, Katklaw! Happy New Year to you, too!

  177. CHRISTY G. says

    January 18, 2017 at 2:18 pm

    Wow, that’s a lot of trips. Congratulations! Thanks for the giveaway!

  178. Andrea says

    January 18, 2017 at 2:54 pm

    Hope to win! I LOVE Amazon! Thanks for the chance!

  179. Stephanie says

    January 18, 2017 at 4:40 pm

    I really enjoyed reading your blog post! Looked fun!

  180. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 18, 2017 at 5:29 pm

    Thanks, Stephanie!

  181. Carissa Joslyn says

    January 18, 2017 at 5:54 pm

    That’s great that you were able to make your goal happen! and they look amazing. the views and the food!

  182. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 18, 2017 at 6:39 pm

    Thanks, Carissa!

  183. Rhonda Grisham says

    January 19, 2017 at 2:37 am

    Great post! I’ve always wanted to visit Mexico. Who knows, maybe this will be my year?

  184. DEBIJOT says

    January 20, 2017 at 3:46 am

    Love shopping Amazon.

  185. patricia skinner says

    January 20, 2017 at 7:14 am

    I am also a goal setter. I like having a plan to enter the new year in and I do evaluate the plan as the year proceeds. Many times, I have had to adjust my goals as things unplanned do emerge in our lives.

  186. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 20, 2017 at 9:21 am

    Patricia – Great point! Good to set goals and also be flexible enough to adjust as needed.

  187. Rhonda Martin says

    January 20, 2017 at 9:03 pm

    I think you will exceed your goal of 20 trips. You was a very busy lady in 2016.You did so many fun things. I’d love to do some traveling throughout the US from the East Coast where I live to the West Coast where you live. Life seems to always get in the way but maybe some day.

  188. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 20, 2017 at 10:25 pm

    Rhonda – A cross country trip sounds fantastic! Hope you are able to do it.

  189. ShootingStarsMag says

    January 21, 2017 at 11:35 am

    Looks like you had a great 2016. I hope you can meet your 20 trips this year. I will get nowhere near there, but I AM planning to visit Las Vegas for the first time this year for my sister’s birthday.

  190. Julie Bickham says

    January 21, 2017 at 12:03 pm

    I love your blog. Keep up the good work!

  191. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 21, 2017 at 12:18 pm

    Thanks, Shooting Stars! Hope you have a great time in Vegas!

  192. Susan P. says

    January 21, 2017 at 6:31 pm

    My sister and I searched out the date farms when we visited Palm Springs and were very impressed. Worth the drive to see the date palms.

  193. Melissa says

    January 21, 2017 at 8:13 pm

    Sounds like some very nice trips.

  194. Rhonda Martin says

    January 22, 2017 at 11:26 am

    The gallery of photo’s you took are amazing. The food looks so delicious and the beaches so inviting. In the very first photo album, 1st photo on the right side, was that a local farmers market?

  195. Lana simanovicki says

    January 22, 2017 at 12:27 pm

    i like amazon they have so many cool things

  196. Lana simanovicki says

    January 22, 2017 at 12:27 pm

    i like amazon they have so many cool things.

  197. Cindy Merrill says

    January 22, 2017 at 1:26 pm

    Just love the Adventures posts, it’s fun. New food recipes are my biggest kick, love trying dishes from all over the US.

  198. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 22, 2017 at 2:02 pm

    Thanks, Cindy!

  199. Sabine Blanch says

    January 22, 2017 at 2:50 pm

    Love your recipes! Thank you

  200. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 22, 2017 at 3:18 pm

    Thank you, Sabine!

  201. Gabrielly says

    January 22, 2017 at 6:08 pm

    Great giveaway to start the New Year.

  202. Carolyn G says

    January 23, 2017 at 5:13 pm

    Happy New Year

  203. Kaitlin Mark says

    January 23, 2017 at 6:48 pm

    Gorgeous pictures!!

  204. Wanda Jean P says

    January 24, 2017 at 7:44 am

    A great giveaway, thank you,Amazon is a great place to shop online.

  205. Jen says

    January 24, 2017 at 7:21 pm

    You got to a lot of fabulous places and it looks like you have a lot of great food too!

  206. BusyWorkingMama says

    January 25, 2017 at 12:48 pm

    Thanks for the chance to win!

  207. John H. says

    January 25, 2017 at 8:46 pm

    What a cool giveaway!

  208. Jennifer H. says

    January 25, 2017 at 8:47 pm

    This would be so great to win!

  209. Neysa Anthony says

    January 26, 2017 at 6:12 am

    OMG! That’s a lot of food!

  210. jim Rector says

    January 27, 2017 at 9:51 am

    great giveaway

  211. Theresa Jenkins says

    January 27, 2017 at 7:57 pm

    Awesome!!! I hope you make your goal of 20 trips for 2017 !

  212. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 27, 2017 at 8:35 pm

    Thank you, Theresa!

  213. Marcia says

    January 28, 2017 at 9:57 am

    I would be thankful to win!

  214. Tiffany Dayton says

    January 28, 2017 at 6:05 pm

    I like Amazon. Good prices and we have ordered a few things from there.

  215. Daniel M says

    January 29, 2017 at 11:21 am

    always like amazon they have practically everything

  216. Robin says

    January 29, 2017 at 11:59 am

    I love to shop at Amazon.

  217. Shanna says

    January 29, 2017 at 3:25 pm

    I love how you’ve set up your blog. The pictures are very enticing. Thanks for the chance to win the contest too!

  218. Zoey says

    January 30, 2017 at 12:17 am

    Thanks for offering this generous giveaway!

  219. julia says

    January 30, 2017 at 4:45 am

    Pretty awesome!

  220. Stephanie Larison says

    January 30, 2017 at 8:08 am

    Those tacos look amazing! lol Love all the pics

  221. Linda says

    January 30, 2017 at 9:44 am

    That’s a great retrospective of your trips in 2016. Good luck on making 20 this year!

  222. Lisa L says

    January 30, 2017 at 11:08 am

    You went to some really fun places!

  223. Kathy Pease says

    January 30, 2017 at 12:59 pm

    Thanks so much for the chance :)

  224. Teresa A Thompson says

    January 30, 2017 at 2:21 pm

    Thanks for the giveaway. I love Amazon gift cards.

  225. Tim Deeter says

    January 30, 2017 at 5:33 pm

    i would like it win

  226. Robyn Bellefleur says

    January 30, 2017 at 6:43 pm

    Might I suggest going to the Bahamas? We went for a week and did not want to come home. We are planning another trip there sometime soon.

  227. Valerie Mitchell says

    January 30, 2017 at 7:53 pm

    Robyn – The Bahamas would be great! It definitely looks like my kind of place. Glad you had such a good time.

  228. Crystal F says

    January 31, 2017 at 2:08 am

    Sounds like you had a very eventful year. Some of the food looks amazing. Hope this year brings just as much fun.

  229. Alyce Poalillo says

    January 31, 2017 at 7:18 am

    You can never go wrong with Amazon GC-just got a package from them this morning.

  230. Mary Gardner says

    January 31, 2017 at 8:20 am

    How nice that you have traveled so many beautiful places! I would also love to visit the Dominican Republic.

  231. Ed says

    January 31, 2017 at 8:44 am

    To travel and to eat are wonderful infinitives.

  232. Michele Cupp says

    January 31, 2017 at 9:03 am

    20 trips wow! Good luck and enjoy. I hope you make it!

  233. Sarah Mayer says

    January 31, 2017 at 9:50 am

    Thanks for all your useful tips.

  234. AEKZ2 says

    January 31, 2017 at 10:23 am

    My family loves Southern California!

  235. Allyson Rose Becker says

    January 31, 2017 at 11:07 am

    This is terrific! Thank you!

  236. Tarissa says

    January 31, 2017 at 12:23 pm

    Cool pics! It looks like you got to do some incredible traveling. :)

  237. Kat Emerick says

    January 31, 2017 at 1:54 pm

    Would love to see.

  238. rebecca day says

    January 31, 2017 at 3:00 pm

    thanks for the giveaway

  239. lisagee1234 says

    January 31, 2017 at 3:34 pm

    Cool giveaway and cool pictures on this page too.

  240. lea c. says

    January 31, 2017 at 3:38 pm

    I would love to travel as much as you!

  241. Sandra Watts says

    January 31, 2017 at 5:56 pm

    I personally would not mind visiting the Hard Rock Hotel. :)

  242. Susan Biddle says

    January 31, 2017 at 6:14 pm

    It sounds like you had a great year, and you got a ton of fun colorful photos too! Nice to look at, keep it coming. I hope you have a great 2017 too! Thanks for the great giveaway.

  243. Jerry Marquardt says

    January 31, 2017 at 6:35 pm

    I would like to thank you for giving us a chance to win the Year in Review $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway today.

  244. Colette says

    January 31, 2017 at 7:12 pm

    This would help me purchase some kitten items!

  245. Rajee Pandi says

    January 31, 2017 at 7:24 pm

    Love to travel more

  246. Wendy McBride says

    January 31, 2017 at 7:29 pm

    Love seeing your adventures through pictures and blog. I would use $50 Amazon card for B1 and B12 vitamins I am out of!

  247. Leah Shumack says

    January 31, 2017 at 7:40 pm

    Some beautiful pictures above!

  248. Buddy Garrett says

    January 31, 2017 at 8:21 pm

    I loved your year review. California is beautiful. Thanks for the giveaway.

  249. Leslie C says

    January 31, 2017 at 8:30 pm

    I would love to win an Amazon GC because I am saving for an eReader!

  250. Kiersten says

    February 5, 2017 at 8:29 am

    I couldn’t refrain from commenting. Well written!

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