Recently, I managed to score tickets to a JPL tour, which, let me tell you, is no easy feat—these tickets are harder to get than Taylor Swift tickets! For those who might not be familiar, JPL, or the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, is a NASA research and development center that focuses on the construction and operation of planetary robotic spacecraft. It's basically where some of the coolest space exploration projects come to life.

As a mom with a family that’s super into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), this tour was a dream come true. My older daughter, Evelyn, who was turning 7 that weekend, was especially thrilled. She’s got a keen interest in all things science and technology, and I knew this experience would be something she'd remember forever. We were all buzzing with excitement as we prepared for our big day at JPL!

The best part about the JPL Visitor Day Tour? It’s free! The trick is that because it's free, spots vanish faster than you can say "rocket science." Currently, reservations open about two months in advance. So, if you’re eyeing a tour for September, be ready in July. But be quick—those slots get snatched up within hours, sometimes even minutes. You can book your tour here.

Our excitement soared as we pulled up to the enormous JPL campus, which turned out to be a whopping 168 acres—much bigger than we had imagined! Parking is free but limited, so we were glad we arrived a bit early. Check-in is conveniently located right across the street from the free parking. Remember to bring the government ID you used to get your tickets; you'll need it for check-in. Drew got us checked in, and we waited in an outdoor area with plenty of shade. Our tour guide was amazing! They handed out our lanyards and reminded us to keep them on for the entire tour. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and involves a decent amount of walking, including some stairs. We were asked to stay close together and in a single-file line since it’s a working campus.

Our first stop was the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Visitor Center. We started with a 20-minute video that gave an overview of our solar system and seamlessly connected it to the exciting projects JPL is currently working on. Evelyn was absolutely captivated by the video, while Hazel, being only 4, wasn’t as curious. Thankfully, we packed some quiet toys for her, and she did fantastic. There were quite a few other kids there, so as long as she was quiet, no one seemed to mind her lack of interest in the film. After the video, we explored the visitor center, which showcased replicas and models of past missions. It was fascinating to see JPL’s incredible progress and their ambitious plans for the future.

Next, we got to see full-size models of the current rover, Perseverance, which is busy conducting its missions on Mars. There’s a fantastic documentary on Disney+ about Perseverance that I highly recommend to anyone who’s interested. We also got to see a model of Ingenuity. Ingenuity was a last-minute addition to the rover mission. Another team at JPL was researching flight on Mars and asked if they could send a helicopter with Perseverance to study. The Perseverance team welcomed the idea but it had to weigh only 4 lbs. They would have been happy if Ingenuity flew once, but they really hoped for 5 flights. It ended up flying over 72 times! My absolute favorite fact is that when the Smithsonian Institute found out about this helicopter being sent to Mars to achieve the first flight on the alien planet, they sent a small piece of the Wright Brothers' first plane to JPL. The JPL team incorporated that piece into the helicopter, so when it flew on Mars, it carried a piece of the Wright Brothers' plane with it. How amazing is that story?! I wonder what the Wright Brother’s would’ve thought about part of their plane, being flown around on Mars!

The Space Flight Operations Facility (SFOF) houses the control room, along with related computing and communications equipment areas at JPL. It’s also where NASA's Deep Space Network is operated from. We were thrilled to get a rare opportunity to actually sit in Mission Control. This room is almost always in use, so tours usually go through the viewing room above the control room. Because it wasn't in use, we were allowed to sit in the chairs! Even our tour guide was giddy since this doesn’t happen often. Drew and I have actually watched launches/landings that were conducted in this room so it was very cool to actually sit there. We got to see all the different missions out in space on a large board that showed the data being sent from and to the different satellites. That is why it is lovingly called “The center of the universe”. We got to hear the story about the Lucky Peanuts, which was hilarious. If you go on a tour, make sure you ask about it! If you are interested, I snapped this picture of a laminated copy of the story you can read. I really regret not grabbing a picture with one of the cans of peanuts scattered around the room. For me, this was the highlight of the trip!

Next, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the Spacecraft Assembly Facility, where we peered through a second-story glass window into High Bay 1. Inside, JPL staff were diligently working on preparations for their next mission. We had hoped to catch a glimpse of the Europa Clipper, but sadly, we missed it by just three weeks. The spacecraft had recently been shipped off to the Kennedy Space Center, where it will be launched in October on a mission to explore Jupiter's moon, Europa. These rooms are steeped in history, having housed the construction of some of humanity's most profound space missions. Witnessing the expansive clean room and the meticulous assembly process for space-bound instruments was truly awe-inspiring. Everywhere we looked, we saw badges commemorating past missions that were built, tested, disassembled, and rebuilt right there. Personnel working in these spaces don "bunny suits" to maintain cleanliness, with the air refreshed every five minutes—an essential precaution in the delicate environment. Evelyn particularly loved this part of the tour, captivated by the enormity of what was being accomplished right before her eyes.

Experiencing the JPL tour was nothing short of mesmerizing. From witnessing our tax dollars in action—totally worth it, in my opinion—to marveling at the meticulous care and precision that goes into every aspect of space exploration, this tour left an indelible mark. It was essential for my daughters to witness firsthand how the pursuit of knowledge benefits humanity. Evelyn, at 7 years old, absorbed everything with fascination, while Hazel, at 4, was a champ despite being a bit too young to really appreciate everything we saw. Personally, I'd do this tour again in a heartbeat. With our understanding of space and Earth continually evolving, each visit promises new discoveries and insights.

When I found out I was expecting Evelyn, I was determined to be that unstoppable pregnant lady who kept going at full speed. Running was a big part of my life, and I was eager to keep up with my routine throughout the pregnancy. I'd seen many inspiring stories in the running community—women running right up until their due dates. But, as they say, life had other plans for me. Severe morning sickness and constant breakthrough bleeding brought my running aspirations to a halt much earlier than I anticipated. The Star Wars Half Marathon, around my fourth month with Evelyn, marked my last race, and let me tell you, it was tough. I knew then that I had to hang up my running shoes for a while.

Between navigating the whirlwind of new motherhood, the unexpected challenges of a global pandemic, and the joyful arrival of another little one, finding the time and energy to lace up my running shoes again took a backseat... until last year. When the news broke that Run Disney would be reviving their iconic races through Disneyland, it was like a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. I was determined to reclaim that exhilarating experience once more. So, without hesitation, I registered both Drew and myself for the half marathon, and of course, signed up our little girls for the Kid Races too.

Like many families, juggling the demands of everyday life— from nursing the girls through multiple school-induced illnesses to managing my business while being a full-time mom—left little room for training. Time seemed to slip through our fingers, until suddenly, it was race packet pickup day at the Disneyland Hotel. To say I was apprehensive and battling a crisis of confidence would be putting it mildly. Let's be real here: the lead-up to the race saw me wrestling with countless sleepless nights and wrestling with a few anxiety attacks I'd rather not admit to.

Stepping into a Run Disney expo for packet pickup is an experience like no other, especially if it's your first time. You'll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant mix of Disney enthusiasts, avid runners, newcomers eager to try something new, and a whole array of people from all walks of life. Before the kids came along, I used to spend time helping out at my friends' booth, Sparkle Athletic, turning the expo into a lively social gathering and a mini-reunion of sorts. But returning after such a long hiatus felt like stepping into a different world. I couldn't shake the feeling of being 'out of the loop' and completely out of my comfort zone. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, feeling so awkward in a space where I once felt so confident and at ease. Despite all that, I was excited to introduce the girls to the excitement of the expo and get them pumped up for their race the next day.

The next morning, bright and early, we escorted the girls to their races. The setup was in a completely different area from what I remembered before my running break, and I had never participated in the kids' races previously, lacking little ones to sign up. The atmosphere was bustling with a mix of excitement and chaos, as even the Run Disney crew seemed to be adjusting to the new arrangements. While the girls could have run independently, the scene felt a bit overwhelming, so we opted to run alongside them.

The girls were absolutely thrilled by the whole experience! Once we got to the starting area, they were greeted by a lively DJ, lawn games, and an infectious sense of anticipation. As the races were about to kick off, the energy spiked even higher. Families turned out in droves to cheer on their young racers, creating a vibrant but crowded spectacle at the finish line. Drew paired up with Hazel, and I accompanied Evelyn. Hazel, upon crossing the finish line, was disappointed it was over and expressed a very strong desire to keep going! On the other hand, Evelyn, running alongside me, was anxious not to be slowed down. And boy, did she set a pace! I found myself struggling to keep up with her as she dashed ahead like lightning.

After the races, we made our way back to the expo to catch up with my friends at the Sparkle Athletic booth. In the past, I had modeled for their running skirts and accessories, and Drew had even taken some of their marketing photos. As we chatted and reminisced, Evelyn spotted some flyers and banners featuring yours truly. Witnessing her excitement at seeing her mom showcased in such a way was such an amazing feeling. There's nothing quite like the feeling of your child thinking you're cool. It left a lasting impression on Evelyn, who now keeps a marketing postcard of me on her nightstand and proudly refers to my friends at Sparkle Athletic as 'HER friends, the Sparkle Girls.'

It's moments like these that make the journey all the more worthwhile.

We hit the sack early that evening, knowing we had to rise at the ungodly hour of 3:30 AM to make it to the race on time. Sticking to tradition, we enjoyed a pasta dinner the night before, and I indulged in a glass of wine in an attempt to ease my nerves. However, sleep eluded me, and I tossed and turned, anxiously awaiting the day ahead. Before I knew it, we were trudging through the chilly morning air, bundled up in layers to combat the cold. This race was shaping up to be one of the chilliest I'd ever experienced. Wrapped in my 'throw away jacket,' ear muffs, gloves, and layers of clothing, I braced myself for the challenge ahead. Through all of the excitement and anticipation pulsating through the crowd, I couldn't shake the nerves gnawing at me. Fear of not completing the half and the biting cold weighed heavily on my mind as we awaited the starting signal in our corral.

Our strategy for this race boiled down to one simple motto: 'Leave something in the tank to finish strong.' Aware that fatigue would inevitably set in, we aimed to maintain a steady pace, reserving enough energy and stamina to power through to the end. As we hit the pavement, especially weaving through Disneyland and California Adventure, I found my rhythm surprisingly quickly. The mile markers whizzed by, bolstering my confidence that we could actually finish this race.

However, around mile 10, a searing pain flared up in my hips, prompting more frequent walk breaks and casting doubt that I would actually finish. Thankfully, with the encouragement of my cheer squad—via calls and texts—I found renewed determination to press on, their unwavering support reminding me of my resilience.

The last three miles tested every ounce of my endurance, but the roaring cheers of the crowd propelled me forward, filling me with a much needed sense of exhilaration. Summoning a burst of energy, I quickened my pace, and as we approached the finish line, Drew and I held hands as we always did when we crossed a finish line. Gratitude washed over me as closed in on the finish line. Despite the biting cold of the 40-degree weather, our faces and hands numb from the chill, and our training far from adequate, we defied the mountains of self-doubt and crossed the finish line together. Having my steadfast cheerleader by my side every step of the way meant the world to me. Drew's unwavering support has always been my rock, and I owe this accomplishment to him. Crossing yet another finish line together filled me with immense gratitude.

Experiencing that post-run euphoria was like rediscovering an old friend—I had almost forgotten about the rush of endorphins and overwhelming sense of achievement that accompanies completing such a challenging race. It's a feeling like no other!

Reacquainting myself with running after a hiatus wasn't as effortless as I had hoped. It required dedication and perseverance, but the journey has been incredibly rewarding. With the girls growing older, I'm eager to share my love for running with them and demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the human body when determination meets action.

This weekend was truly special for our family. We forged unforgettable memories, celebrated remarkable achievements, and strengthened our bonds through this shared experience.

Looking ahead, we've already committed to participating in the next Disneyland Half Marathon weekend, and Drew and I are excited to embark on additional non-Disney runs in the coming months.

I’m back!

We'd been keeping a close eye on the weather forecast for weeks, waiting for that telltale dip in temperatures that signals the arrival of fall. When we spotted the change we'd been waiting for, we knew it was time to set our plan into action – our annual apple picking adventure to Oak Glen was officially on the calendar. Little did we expect, though, just how much the temperatures would drop. Throughout our visit, the mercury never climbed above 50 degrees, and the sun played a game of peek-a-boo, making it a crisp and invigorating experience.

Hey there, fellow adventurers! I wanted to share the most amazing day my family and I recently had at Los Rios Rancho in sunny California. It's a place where apple orchards stretch out as far as the eye can see, and the sweet scent of ripe apples fills the air. With each visit, we learn a little more about making the most of this special place, and I wanted to pass on some tips for your own future apple-picking adventures.

Early Bird Gets the Apples: Los Rios Rancho has been growing in popularity, and for good reason. But, to enjoy the orchards without the crowds, we've learned to arrive early, usually around 9 AM. This not only guarantees the perfect photo op but also lets us beat the midday heat. Plus, you'll have your pick of the finest apples in the morning light!

Boot Break-In: On this particular day, I had bought Evelyn a shiny new pair of boots for our adventure. They fit well, but even the most comfortable shoes can have their quirks. So, our advice is to break them in before your trip to avoid any uncomfortable surprises.

Plan Your Activities: Many farms, including Los Rios Rancho, offer a variety of activities beyond apple picking, from hayrides, u-press cider to petting zoos. These can fill up quickly, so we always make sure to sign up or queue early to secure our spots. Check their website or call ahead to see what's happening during your visit.

Sunscreen, Always: California sun, even on overcast days, can be surprisingly strong. We found this out the hard way when both our girls ended up with rosy cheeks. Don't forget the sunscreen, folks! A little protection goes a long way.

Snacks and a Savvy Strategy: After all that apple picking, you're bound to work up an appetite. Local restaurants are delicious, but be prepared for waitlists, especially during peak season. We've learned to bring snacks for the kids and seek out places that offer a pager service. Our personal favorite is Apple Annie's in Oak Tree Mountain – great food, plenty to do while you wait, and those pagers make it a breeze.

This year's adventure was a blast, despite Evelyn's new boot hiccup. Hazel fully embraced the day, and Evelyn became our resident apple connoisseur. I've cherished visiting this slice of mountain life, a small taste of my own childhood spent at my grandparents' home in the Tehachapi mountains.

We're already counting down the days until our next apple-picking excursion, and now we're eyeing the Apple Blossom season for a whole new adventure! 🌸✨

Stay tuned for more tales of family fun and unforgettable moments. Until then, happy picking!

Check out this fun video I made of our day!