About Me

Thanks for stopping by! I'm the traveler behind the BlestwithZest Instagram account.

What Inspired My Travels?

As cliche as it sounds my love of travel was cracked wide open on the trip I took on my Honeymoon. My new husband (CT) and I embarked on a weeklong-road trip through 4 states in New England. Neither of us had done anything like that before. We came to love the long days without a plan that seemingly, perfectly wandered from one thing to the next.

Once we were back in Kansas City (our homebase) we realized just how much the wanderlust bug had bit. We knew we needed to make travel a large part of our lives and have been working on how to do that while balancing enjoying everyday life.

So far we've traveled to 29-states and 4-countries with so many more on our list to explore.

My Travel Style

If you'd asked me 3 years ago what kind of traveler I was I wouldn't have hesitated when I said "city explorer." During the years of living through the pandemic I've really come to enjoy the beauty of our country through the National Parks. That being said I am by no means an outdoors-woman but I do enjoy the beauty of nature - as long as I don't have to "rough it."

Similarly, I used to think driving somewhere was flat out a waste of time. But I have really come around on this one. The past 2 summers have taken separate road trips that were over 36 hours round trip. You can just see so much that you would've otherwise missed.

Of course, there is a time and place for flying - I mean sometimes you only have 2 days you can get away from work or life so flying makes much more sense.

All that to say I have broadened my travel horizons and am basically down for any kind of trip mountains, beach, city, country, desert, you name it as long as I am not sleeping on the ground! :)

Life Beyond Travel

Travel is a huge part of my life and I feel like I'm always dreaming up some trip but I have also (reluctantly) came to the realization that traveling isn't as much fun when you don't have a baseline to return to.

That being said, I still like to try to pepper in as many interesting experiences into my everyday life to still feel like I'm on vacation.

When I'm not traveling around, I take enjoyment from cooking a good meal or trying a new restaurant with friends. There is a big focus on the arts in Kansas City so it's always fun to explore museums or monthly displays around town to feel connected.

I crave variety - especially when it comes to staying active. One weekend I am Pickleballing and the next I'm learning how to do aerial silks or curling (both WAY harder than you can imagine!)

I have worked as a writer for almost 10 years now and am even a published author! If you are planning a trip to Kansas City, be sure to check out the guide I wrote on the food you have to try in this city!

Thanks for Stopping By

I hope you find the tips and trips I share are helpful and you get inspired to take more trips of your own. I truly believe each place we visit leaves a mark on our soul. I'd love to have you along for the ride and hear any tips you have as well - I am by no means an expert and am always improving the way I do things!

Until next time - keep exploring!

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