FAMILY STAYCATION AT WE-KO-PA RESORT CASINO

Its been a few weeks since our staycation at the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, and Atlas keeps asking if we can go back to “We-Ko-Pa-Pa!” where our family enjoyed an unforgettable experience. Here’s a glimpse into our delightful itinerary and the fantastic time we had and Phoenix’s first Casino and new fam fav and Finding Arizona FIND.

Thursday, Check-in and Property Tour - Our adventure began with a warm welcome and an effortless check-in process. We all arrived as a family, with my parents visiting from San Diego. We thought a suite could accommodate some bomb babysitters for Atlas, making it a perfect setup. After checking in, we were greeted by Gail Manginelli, who took us on a fascinating tour of the property. Gail’s insights made us appreciate the resort's unique charm, and we were especially impressed by the resort's ties to the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation.

Pool Time! Next, we hit the pool, our favorite spot at the resort. Atlas, our little fish, loves the water just like his mama! The waterfalls were a big hit, and the pool depths were perfect for a casual cool-off or a full swim. It was the ideal way to start our staycation.

7 pm - Dinner at Ember - Jose and I had the pleasure of enjoying a date night dinner at Ember, the resort’s signature restaurant. We were treated to shared bites from the kitchen and a welcome glass of champagne to kick off the night. My favorite part was the piano player who rocked the evening with fantastic tunes. It was a lovely way to wind down and connect with out our extra co host.

Friday am Early Morning Dip - The next morning, the family started our day with a refreshing dip in the pool, being the first ones in to watch the fountains turn on. It was a serene and magical experience.

Breakfast at Ahnala - Before our podcast recording ,Jose and I got to enjoy a nice breakfast at Ahnala. Breakfast is my favorite and the Starbucks coffee was exactly what I needed. We stuffed ourselves again and enjoyed a producer prep conversation before our interivew.

9 am - Podcast with Liz Norton - We then recorded a podcast with Liz Norton, the Acting Marketing Director of We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort. Jose, as the host, led a wonderful conversation where Liz shared fascinating stories about the resort. Her personal anecdotes and genuine passion for her work added a special touch to our conversation. You can watch the full episode HERE.

11 am - Massages - After a busy morning, Jose and I treated ourselves to a relaxing one-hour massage. The skilled therapists worked their magic, melting away our stress and leaving us rejuvenated. It was the perfect way to conclude our staycation while Atlas, Papa and GG got some fun suite time in. You have to SEE the vlog to see what we walked into

Hotel Atlas" was a vibe! Atlas strutted around with a straw in his stuff, danced up and down the elevators, and snacked his way through the days. His joyful energy was contagious and added an extra layer of fun to our stay. The overall family feel of the resort was fantastic. Everyone had a great time, including grandpa, who hit his favorite game and cashed out as a winner. Bingo!

Until next time

XoXo

Britt

CALGARY, CANADA CONFERENCES AND CANCELLATIONS

I am flying back from an eventful work trip to Canada, and oh boy, do I have some memories to share with you! I was there for BCW's SMART Growth International Business Expo 2024, which brings together business communities from Western Canada, Africa, the USA, and the Caribbean. KNOW was there as media partners. My CEO and partner in this high vibe life, Sarah Benken Foushee was there to moderate a panel and gave the closing keynote. Plus, we were podcasting onsite, capturing stories from global leaders.

Calgary was out destination, and I have a whole post I need to share on obtaining my Expedited Passport 5 days before my trip! Our tip was originally scheduled for four days, but thanks to a last-minute airline strike, we got stuck for an extra two days, making it a six-day adventure. Honestly, all I could think about was getting back home to my boy and hubby. Why did the airlines have to strike at the worst possible time?

The conference was packed with panels, keynotes, and carbs. After a day full of brain + stomach food, we hit up rooftop bars, private social clubs, and some swanky hotel bars. I even stumbled upon the cutest thrift shop called Good Neighbour and did some sightseeing in Chinatown and the vibrant 5th street scene. Drinking my way through Calgary’s IPAs! I fell in love with the 88 Wave Pool Tropical IPA and Banded Peak Microburst Hazy IPA. But honestly, what made this trip bearable was getting closer to my boss and her husband, who are like family to me. They’ve got my back, both personally and professionally.

But let’s talk about the challenges. Finding out our flight was canceled due to a WestJet strike was a nightmare. Navigating a new country and its laid-back culture was another hurdle. I mean, who knew patience was such a virtue in Canada? Everything is a bit off from the hot sauces to the iced teas to everything in between.

It was an honor to represent KNOW Women and connect with global leaders and add international podcast producer to my resume, but I’m so ready to be back home to the states.

Happy Canada Day!

XoXo Britt

OVERNIGHT IN FLAGSTAFF WITH A BABY AND A DOG

We survived our first overnight with baby A! We patiently waited 7 months to venture out and Atlas, Winter, Joe and I are so glad we did. A night in Flagstaff was the perfect family outing for us. We found great places to eat, drink and rest our heads. Here’s our quick guide and reccs especially during the new pandemic normal with a baby and a dog.

Where to stay?

That’s was top priority. The birthday queen in me was temped with a bougie glamping tent off the Grand Canyon, but the mom in me thought smarter. AirBnB to the rescue. We found a 100 year old A-frame home in the heart of downtown Flagstaff. It had original wood floors, a claw foot tub and antique fridge. But plenty of space for a a pack-n-play, a dog bed and all off Britt’s luggage. Side note: packing with a baby requires a lot of things! Stroller, seat, bed, bath, Breza, mat, toys, all the clothes, etc. We just did one night; it’s a 2.5 hour drive from Phoenix and great practice for car trips and overnights with Atlas. (& mom to practice pacting).

Where to eat?

Breakfast?

Biff’s-Bagel sandwiches. Get there early and take to go. Walk to a near by park or coffee at …

Late for the Train- Order the Coconino Mocha, thank me later.

Lunch?

Toasted Owl Cafe- Outside dining bring baby and dog. Order the Turkey Pesto on Ciabatta. Order dranks or water, the drinks taste like soda fountain.

Dinner?

Historic Brewing Barrel + Bottle House- Love at first flight. Sip some sours, IPA, rose, ciders and more. Nine brewed locally. Plus the food is delish: burgers, wings, fried pickles, chicken fingers, etc. you can eat inside or out and everyone is sooo friendly. The smallest of world moment happened when our waiter walked out with our food it was the same guy from lunch!

Desert?

Yet to find! Leave your reccs. We did the gelato at a pizza joint but i won’t not recommend, sorry.

Where to go?

Parks:

Wheeler Park- grass and beautiful trees.

Heritage Square- live music and great shops. Be sure to check out P.J. Chilcottage!

Shop:

P.J. Chilcottage- everything from littles to moms. Great tourist gifts and home decor. and homemade soap. Literally wanted everything in the store, EVERYTHING. Check out their IG.

Babbitts- outdoor gear, dog swag and souvenirs. Love the historical building too!

What a trip for the memory books. We even signed the AirBnB guestbook. Reading some of the entries on the travelers and their stays in the past were entertaining. Let us know if you recommend anything in Flag so the next time we head up north we can be sure to check out. Be well and continue to stay safe out there.

XoXO

Mama Britt

CHRISTMAS FAMILY VACATION

We spent Christmas in San Diego with the Griswolds. First, we made snow angels for two hours, then we went ice skating and then we ate a whole roll of Tollhouse Cookie dough as fast as we we could, and then we snuggled. No, that was the movie Elf, which we did watch for Christmas Eve. And Clark, my dad, Griswold did give us an amazing tour of his light displays. But this post is all about traditions. Something about making traditions new and old that makes this time of year so special. Here are a few traditions we’re upholding.  

 Christmas Eve is when our family gets together. Homemade lasagna from a sauce that cooked the entire day before and all the deserts you can think of fills our belly as we toast to each other. No turkey, no stuffing. Instead- Italian goodness. 

My favorite are the games. Of course the  white elephant game is played. See photos below for some of the treasures. But this year we added a Saran Wrap present challenge to our oven mit crazy wrapped present games. It’s 3 minutes of pure laughter and fun even if you’re just spectating. 

Traditions for a Christmas in San Diego mean spending mornings on the beach. Whether it’s a good sweat or a casual stroll the salty air in the morning is the best way to start the day in California. In the evening we hit Christmas Tree Circle in Chula Vista. Anxious to see what new displays are added this year we had family visiting from North Dakota who has never been before so it was great to see their reaction. 

I was honored this year to receive many amazing, and thoughtful presents, but one that stands out is a tradition I now carry. I was gifted from a like a mother to me a set of her grandmother and great grandmothers wedding rings. Through the tears, I promised to uphold these family traditions with honor. 

Another family tradition we have kept for I want to say 4 years now are making tamales. Mind you the only hispanic we have In The kitchen with us is my best friend Evelina, but between my mom and my 88 year old grandpa, this year we made 175 tamales. Laughing over the craft, and sharing stories from life passed and present it’s moments and traditions like this I will remember forever. 

When we returned to Phoenix we celebrated with the Acevedo Family and welcomed in a new friend, post to come, but being with family and sharing a warm meal and exchanging love and laughs are the best times of the holiday no matter where you spend it or what day you celebrate it as long as you are honoring traditions the spirit of the holidays with always be there.  

Can’t forget to mention the tradition of the matching pajamas. I know its #trending this year, but we’ve been doing it a while! Gotta love the photos from it!

XoXo

Britt

THE BEST LITTLE AIRBNB IN TUCSON

Tucson, AZ is just a short drive from Phoenix, but completely another world. For Sun Devil’s it is almost forbidden territory, but for desert dwellers it is a hidden gem. Quick day trips to Tucson was the usual agenda for us, but this time Jose and I wanted to take a mini vacay and extend out trip in the dirty T.

I quickly started looking up AirBnB.com for our trip. I didn’t want us to stay in a hotel with hundreds of other people seeking privacy. Browsing through most of the AirBnBs I avoided any couch crashing opportunities because we wanted a space of our own. Then we found The Desert Studio and I fell in love.

This well designed space was the first thing that caught my eye. Upon our arrival, every expectation was met. This space felt particularly warm and full of love. Maybe it was the blush colored linens and art but it was a photographer’s and instagrammers dream. So of course we spent some time capturing the best elements of the space.

First, the location of the house was prime! Located in the lovely Highland Vista Cinco Via neighborhood in Tucson, it was a 25 drive from our book club meeting near Marana (see previous post on the Book Club we joined), but less than a 10 minute drive to the Uof A campus and Historic Fourth Ave. The space a had a private entrance and everytime we pulled into the driveway it felt like we were coming home.

Second, a space must serve purpose. The studio is well equipped with many amenities. (Mini -refrigerator, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, TV, and Wifi.) But our favorite use of the space was the record player. It was set with classic albums to enhance the experience. There is no better sound than a needle hitting the record and hearing that crackling spin.

Lastly, bring on the accessories! Need a good selfie mirror?. Want to relive eighth grade English class browsing J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye? Dreamed of taking a photo in a Peacock wicker chair? Continuing the idea of functionality and purpose, each decoration enhanced the everyday experiences of conversation, reading and or sharing a meal at the quaint table for 2.

If you are headed to Tucson, AZ you have to book this place! Looking to get out of town and experience a true AirBnB then reach out to Lauren And Kyle at The Desert Studio.

Safe Travels.

XoXo

Britt

WEEKEND GET AWAY - SAN DIEGO

Happy first day of Summer. Living in AZ it has felt like summer for a least 6 weeks now. With the temperatures only rising travel plans are also on the rise. We have a few trips to San Diego planned this summer, because why not! 

Mid June in San Diego is perfect. You get the coastal cloudy morning that quickly burns off to a beautiful clear sky and by the evening time a light breeze is perfect for a jacket, bonfire, or snuggling. Having lived in AZ for 7 years now, any time I go back home I have to bring longs pants and sweaters. 

Our last trip was for my cousin's wedding (see previous post), but we also spent some time taking in a few San Diego sights to share! 

The San Diego County Fair, or the Del Mar Fair as I remember it was in full affect. It was not hard to convince Jose to get some fried food and watch some pig races. After calling up my best-friend of 25 years we loaded up the Santa Fe and drove up the I5. After stuffing our faces with Australian Beer Battered Potatoes, Fried Zucchini, Chicken and Waffles, Giant Pickles, Fudge, and Donuts we hit the promotional tents and got suckered into a garlic shredder. Finally the pig races! Swifty Swine International Race Way is the setting for the fastest pigs in the west. They race the track for an Oreo cookie! So would I! The state fair never gets old and always a favorite when visiting Cali in the Summer. 

Imperial Beach is the most Southwesterly city in the continental United States. It was my home for 21 years and still feels like home every-time I visit. A lot has changed, ask anyone, hotels and breweries, murals and landscaping, but its still my small little hometown tucked in America's Finest City. 

When the ocean is only 1 mile away from the parent's house the beach is constantly calling your name. Usually Jose and I wake up early and hit the sand for a beach run, but this trip we were ultimate vacationers and walked the beach in search for treasures. The water was freezing, as usual, but the the swells were hitting up to 10 feet so I can see why there were a few brave souls out there.

July in Diego is for Over the Line and if you dont know you need to Google this! We have been partying on the island for 10+ years upgrading from a Radio Flyer wagon to an RV. From 1 hungover day to 3 thought out prep planned days. From a party of 4 to party of 14. Mark your calendars for July 14 -1 5, and look forward to that blog post! 

MEET THE FOCKERS

San Diego was the scene for a 2018 remake of Meet the Fockers staring the Acevedo Family and the Johnson-Dolan Family. A tale of two families spending a weekend experiencing each other's lifestyles while their offspring begin to plan a wedding.  

Unlike the 2004 classic movie, our parents had met each other prior to the weekend retreat, but for only a few hours. My parents were visiting Arizona for a weekend and we were invited to a "Meet the Parents" BBQ in Peoria. They immediately clicked and it was hard to separate them. 

After staying connected on Facebook our families needed a more in depth get together since Jose popped the question. What better way to realx and let loose than a weekend in San Diego. 

3 days & 3 nights in America's Finest City. My parents live 1 mile form the Pacific Ocean and with an itinerary of brunch cruises, Mexico border trips, and yard games it was set to be the best trip ever. 

And it was. We went to the dentist: no cavities, extra guac. We went on the cruise: flowing champagne and harbor tours, yes please! We played Washers till we found a champ: Congrats, Tony! 

But the never ending Wedding Questions hurt my head. "When's the date? Where? What do you mean its not a destination wedding?" I am ready to go to the courthouse and call a taco truck for a backyard party, but Parents are not ready to hear that. 

This weekend brought our families closer together, but me further a part from wanting to "plan a wedding." Help!