Bit of Betsy

Pipes Canyon to Olsen Ruins

It’s been a very lovely December. Christmas decorations are up, presents are wrapped, and despite the looming lock downs, we were still able to get out and explore. Another lovely thing about December is that it is prime desert season! This time of year the sun is warm, the air has a bite to it,…

Idyllwild Nature Center and Trails

The Idyllwild Nature Center and Trails is located about one mile northwest of downtown Idyllwild, on highway 243. The Nature center is not fully opened at this time due to Covid but there is a ranger there to answer questions Thursday-Sunday, 9am to 4pm. All trails are open 7 days a week from sunrise to…

Solo

As I Drive up the mountain road I keep glancing at the back seat, I’m used to seeing my little one there but today she is at day care and I am taking the morning to do something I have not done since before she was born. Going on solo hikes was always an escape…

Lake Mead

A few weekends ago we headed to Lake Mead to meet up with family. This was not the first time we camped by the lake. The last time we were at Lake Mead I had just found out I was pregnant with Emma, so it only seems appropriate to bring her to the same spot…

Big Morongo Canyon Preserve

It can be challenging to find fun activities to do with small children. Add Covid restrictions into the mix and your options become even more limited. Luckily our favorite weekend plans usually involve being outside in the open air. We love to go on long sweaty hikes, but now that Emma is starting to gain…

Oak Glen Preserve

Nothing says fall like the obligatory trip to an apple orchard. Apple picking in Southern California is a bit of a spectacle. Thousands of Californians descend on a handful of orchards, swaddled in their best fall-wear, cozy sweaters, boots, and chucky knits, with no one seeming to care that it is over 90 degrees out….

Just Beachy

It may seem odd to be sharing beach photos on the first week of October, but as any Southern Californian knows autumn is really summer part two! With all the National Forest closed due to wildlife danger, and the temps being too hot to spend much time outside the only option is to enjoy the…

On the San Juan

Sometimes you just need to get away, take your covid-test, pack extra food, water and hand sanitizer, and drive. After canceling our family trip to Illinois we decided to drive to see family in Utah instead. Needless to say this year has not gone as planned. We knew it was time for a break, and…

Desert Daisy Face Oil

I spend a lot of time in the hot desert sun, which does a number on my skin, this has led me to be a sucker for all things natural skincare. Give me hydrating creams, serums, and body oil, and I will treat myself to a beauty routine that would make Aphrodite proud. It seems…