Introduction
This year was one of major life updates and weather-induced cancellations.
After getting engaged in November of 2024 (yay!), I dedicated much of 2025 to chilling with family, hunting for a house, and planning a wedding.
In terms of travel, I was desperate for adventure. I wanted to celebrate all my exciting personal milestones with trips to new places. In reality, I experienced multiple cancelled / delayed trips (sad face).
Still, I managed to visit five states and one new country this year.
Here’s the month-by-month breakdown:
January & February
The year began close to home. Though I had a few exciting firsts like a roller derby clinic, Italian language school, and the hunt to buy a home.
Meet Oslo, my managing editor.
West Virginia (Fail) So…Back Home
In February, Dave and I attempted a day trip down to West Virginia but were quickly turned around due to winter storms.
March
In March, we found our dream home and started to move in…amid a failed trip to The Netherlands.
We ripped out decades-old carpet to reveal beautiful hardwood floors!
The Netherlands (Fail) So…Boston
My friend Emma and I met in Boston, where we planned to catch a flight to Amsterdam. Sadly, we got stuck in Boston due to weather and had to cancel the trip. I still had a great time exploring Boston but am craving a redemption trip to Amsterdam. Hopefully that happens in 2026 ;)
April
Dave’s birthday month!
I stayed in Pittsburgh, but went on a couple fishing trips in and around the city.
May
My birthday month!
Laurel Caverns
I completed the Deep Depths Caving Program at Laurel Caverns. This guided tour went roughly 450 feet below the surface, where we crawled under and scrambled over rocks. It pushed everyone out of our comfort zones in an amazing and unforgettable way.
Rapid City (Fail) So…Minneapolis
Biking to a waterfall!
After yet another weather-induced flight cancellation, this time out west, Dave and I found ourselves stranded in Minneapolis for his birthday weekend.
Click here to see how Minneapolis has consistently earned the title of “The Happiest City in America”.
June
Eastern & Central Pennsylvania
In June, Dave and I started touring wedding venues while also spending a few weekends cleaning out a family member’s home north of the city. This month, we also took a trip out to Johnstown to visit family.
Cincinnati
Toward the end of the month, I traveled to Cincinnati for my cousin’s wedding.
July
July was filled with unforgettable experiences with so many of the wonderful women in my life <3
Niagara Falls
The month began with a girls’ trip to Niagara Falls. This was a short stay with lots of good food, wine, and heart-to-hearts. It filled my soul. Plus, my friend Holly planned the whole thing! She’s such a gem.
Cleveland
I ended the month in Cleveland, where I went wedding dress shopping with my sister, mom, and grandma. I said yes to the dress, and I’m so grateful that three generations of amazing women could be there with me.
August
August is meant to be spent outside!
Southwestern Pennsylvania
This month, I went tent camping followed by as many after-work hikes as humanly possible.
Annual Summer Camp Trip!
August ended with our annual Summer Camp Extravaganza! Every year a huge group of friends from across the country converge on a small camp in Ohio. This year, we had sparklers! And fireworks!
September
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
Our cozy lean-to shelter with complimentary firewood!
Over Labor Day Weekend my friend Leann joined me on a backpacking trip along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail.
Italy
The Arch of Constantine is largest and most modern of ancient Rome’s triumphal arches.
September ended with my first successful international trip of the year! We spent a week exploring three iconic Italian cities: Rome, Florence, and Venice.
Click here for my top 10 Italy travel trips.
October
October marked the start of my transition out of the summer craziness.
Lake Erie
I started the month with a group meditation retreat at a monastery along the shores of Lake Erie. It was as peaceful as it sounds.
Cincinnati
I ended October back in Cincy for another wedding.
Deep Creek, Maryland
For my final big trip of the year, I headed to Maryland with Dave’s family. This has become an annual tradition, full of quality time with each other and chasing our rapidly-growing nephew around.
November & December
Southwestern Pennsylvania & Northeastern Ohio
I traveled back and forth to Cleveland a couple of times to visit family over the holidays. Otherwise, I stayed close to Pittsburgh and settled into a much-appreciated period of rest and recharge.