Well, that was…interesting. Finding something nice to say about a year that was anything but, is not an easy endeavor. But in the spirit of the new year, finding silver linings, looking up, and marching forward, I’ve decided to remember the past year by trying to find the best of it.
What made your Best of 2020 list?
Like most people, for us it meant finding new ways to do the things we’ve always enjoyed doing. In a year that pretty much sucked, we were fortunate to be able to work from home and safely distance ourselves within our own little bubble. I know that’s not possible for everyone and my heart goes out to our essential workers, medical personnel, and first responders. If anything, I think 2020 taught us to slow down and appreciate the tiniest of moments and to be grateful for the blessings and gifts that ordinary life provides.
My best of 2020 list is actually quite full of some amazing things! Here’s how our year went down…
Best of 2020 Travel
Just prior, and I mean like right before everything shut down, we had this amazing trip to Colorado and did something that’s been on our bucket list for so long – dog sledding! It was incredible to see these amazing working dogs doing what they love most. You can check out all the details on our excursion in this post!
We quickly realized that in order to satisfy our love of travel we were going to need to go on more road trips. It’s actually because of 2020 (and a few reader requests) that I created my Texas travel section on the blog. Our first outing was to see the bluebonnets in the spring. Read this post to find out the best spot for seeing these gorgeous little flowers.
Over the summer we decided that a beach trip was in order. Thankfully Texas has a pretty big coastline so we packed our bags and drove to South Padre Island. We found a great little Airbnb condo on the beach with spectacular views and amenities. We spent our days in the sun with me circling the pool on my giant inflatable unicorn, and our nights playing record amounts of Scrabble. It was perfect and I can’t wait to go back! Read all about it here.
We visited a childhood favorite – Garner State Park! I joined my parents there after many months of keeping our distance. It felt great to do some challenging hikes and swim in the Frio River. I brought Lola with me and she turned out to be the best little adventure puppy. I had so much fun that Paul and I joined my parents again over Christmas by renting a trailer through Outdoorsy. Check out my post here!
Since working from home became the norm, we decided to find some unique Texas Airbnbs. We found an amazing dog-friendly Hill Country gem not far from home, complete with farm animals and views as far as the eye can see. I shared all about our time here in this post, including the link to the exact Airbnb.
We checked another bucket list item off this fall with a trip out to West Texas. We found another perfect and dog-friendly Airbnb in Marathon, where Paul could work and I could paint (more on that later). Seeing West Texas for the first time was like experiencing love at first site. I am dying to return. If you’ve never been, I wrote a detailed Eat+Stay+Play guide here!
Also on our trip to West Texas, we spent a day exploring Big Bend National Park! We brought our girls and toured the park from our vehicle. You can read why we did it this way and how to visit the park with your fur babies in this post!
Best of 2020 Food & Wine
At the end of 2019 we made a trip out to Napa (read all about it here) and while there we joined the wine club at Ehlers Estate. It was such a lovely treat to receive our first allocation in March right when we were stuck at home. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. We’ve been enjoying their wines all year!
Those of you who follow me on Instagram know that Paul has been cooking like crazy. He has always been the chef around here but it’s been really fun, and sometimes challenging, to plan our meals every week. He loves to get creative and over the past few months I’d say he’s completely mastered cooking Asain food (one of my favorites). While he’s at the stove or grill, I’m making drinks. Check out my summer citrus cocktails for your next dinner date at home!
Another way that we got creative was with a series called Fashion + Food + Film. We combined our love of food and my love of getting dressed up with movies we enjoy. I like these posts because they’re fun date night ideas. You can see all the posts here!
Best of 2020 Lifestyle
As I mentioned above, I’ve been dipping my hand (or brush, I should say) in watercolor painting. My first attempt was on our trip to West Texas and my love for this little hobby has only grown. I purchased this kit to get started and it was perfect for a complete newbie. I am most impressed with the number of colors it comes with. I’ve shared some of my paintings on Instagram stories, but would you be interested in seeing more of my “work” here, too? I’m still experimenting but if it would inspire you, let me know in the comments!
My fitness journey with Peloton is still on track! I hit 350 rides and it feels amazing! I answered some FAQs in my last post about my Peloton experience, and you can use my referral code 3U7X8S for $100 off your Peloton accessories!
2020 was a good year for reading! I love a good book recommendation so please share what you’re reading in the comments. If you need something to read, check out my book lists here!
Looking back, 2020 was actually a pretty good time. Going into the new year, my focus will be on the good in all things. I hope you will find that little silver lining as much as possible, too. I have a feeling this year is going to be a good one.
Much love and thanks for reading my little blog. I appreciate you so much!
xo – Erin
When you shop through my links, I earn a small commission at no cost to you. This helps me to continue to bring you the fun content you love. I really appreciate your support!
Best of 2020 appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com.
You might also like:
