Hi all!
Thanks for all of the support and follows in the last year. It's been great to get back into blogging. I desperately missed having a website and my own customization however, so I've started a new site.
Northwest Gypsy was already taken so I had to start fresh.
You can find me at here at Summits and Spice
I'll be moving some of my recipes and most memorable posts over to the new site eventually.
Thanks again for all of the support and interest.
Kayla
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Thursday, March 26, 2015
The Little Things
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| Campsite on the beach at Antelope Island |
It's the little things.
March has absolutely flown by. Really, where did it go?
Prepare yourself for my sappy (yet heartfelt) recap of March.
If I have learned anything from the last month, it's to slow down, stop, and really be thankful for all the things going on in your life. I have not had a day in the last month that I didn't spend doing something great in my free time - except for maybe that gnarly sunburn on the back of my legs from too much sunshine in the park... but I digress.
The photo above was from this past weekend during the five days my dear friend Melody decided to come back to Salt Lake for round two. I come to my first point:
- Waking up on the beach in a place you've just recently grown to love with your best friend is perfect. Mel and I have been friends for the past 10 years. In that time we have both lived in multiple states, never living in the same state since high school, and yet we have travelled near and far to see each other in that time. I am extremely thankful for her friendship and the incredible adventures we have had and what we have ahead.
The next few photos are the other moments from this month that have not only made me smile, but inspired me in many ways.
The beautiful hikes that begin right inside the SLC city limits - explore where you live - no excuses
Spring in my neighborhood brings the most stunning flowers, I truly can't get enough of them.
My first time skiing at Alta was volunteering to teach ski lessons to teens. This girl inspired me just as much as the nonprofit I volunteer for: SheJumps. For more about this magical organization and the reasons I get involved, check out their site here.
This girl. Again, her mug is perfect and it's safe to say that it was not stolen from the diner no matter how much Mel wanted to take it.
Roommate dates. I ended up with some really awesome boys who never cease to entertain me. I apologize for the shameless snapchat screenshots.
New friends, sunsets, and grueling Friday evening hikes that kick your butt back into hiking shape.
SLC was looking prime on this night. After just over 3000 foot gain in 2 miles I gladly rewarded myself with an entire box of mac and cheese and wine - TREAT YOURSELF.
Camping season has officially begun folks, spring is among us. With the change of season comes spring cleaning (highly needed) and change. Stay tuned for what's next.
Focus on the little things but don't sweat the small stuff.
k.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
(20)15 Adventures
I have been severely lacking on my posts in 2015 as we find ourselves already halfway through February. I apologize.
To make up for it however, I have decided to dedicate this post to 15 things I've been up to in the new year. Everything from my travels, recipes, and new things I've embarked on to bring everyone up to speed on the happenings in my life. Sound good? Here we go.
1. The promised return to Taos for a ski trip.
The moment I was back in New Mexico I knew I had missed it more than I ever thought possible. The sunshine, chiles, and colors of the Southwest were just what I needed to start the new year off right. I may or may not have drank a stein of beer at the Bavarian (go there) that convinced me to try the only trick I know off of a jump under the chairlift. Cheers to beer giving you the liquid courage you need to land a 180 disappointing all of the people who wanted to laugh at you.
2. Thai Peanut Spaghetti Squash.
Personally, I love using spaghetti squash instead of pasta mainly because I love vegetables, it's healthier, and honestly just as easy to make as pasta. You can't beat making your own thai peanut sauce either. Give it a shot, found here
3. Backcountry Tour to White and Pink Pines, Little Cottonwood Canyon
As I've mentioned before, this is my first winter skiing in the backcountry. I've only been able to get out touring a couple times this season from plans and weather but every time I've gone it's been a new, great, challenging, and rewarding experience. As a beginner, I have been really grateful to be able to tag along with roommates and friends into the backcountry. This tour was my first double lap tour on two different ridges. Do you want legs of steel? Start alpine touring right now.
4. Avalanche Courses Continued (It never ends)
Since moving to Utah, I've been able to see what an incredible backcountry community resides in the Wasatch and the value resources we have available. A couple weeks ago I took my first partner rescue class up at Brighton put on by the Utah Avalanche Center. Admitting to the fact that I had been out in the backcountry without having taken a course like this is a little embarrassing and I am very thankful to now have the necessary knowledge of partner rescue. It's the skill you hope you never have to use but wouldn't you want the peace of mind knowing that your ski partners know how to save you in the event that it was needed? I am grateful to work with the UAC in my job and have the resources they provide in my personal life. Be responsible and know before you go folks.
5. Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Long story short: This will be my go-to banana bread recipe from here on out.
So. Damn. Good. I doubled the cinnamon to cut down on the sweetness. Perfection. Find it here.
6. Missoula Gals Reunite
It hasn't been too long since I've moved to SLC, but no time is better than now to see your close friends. Lindsey, Jory, and Raechel made their way to Utah from all directions for a weekend of sunshine and laughs in the Beehive State. The beer didn't match up to Kettlehouse (as nothing will) but it's as if we were never apart. Until next time with these lovely gals...
7. Rollerblading in February
I love rollerblading. I was overly excited to see all of the fellow bladers that recreate at the park near my house. With all the tropical weather we have been having I have been trying to get out and blade when I can after work. I never thought I would be able to blade in January and February. I've put on many miles in the last 6 months and I'm thinking it may be time to get some new wheels if you know what I mean...
8. Exploring Utah resorts.
Winter has been on a bit of a hiatus this season but I made my goal to check out many Utah resorts this year and I needed to get a move on. I had the opportunity to ski at Park City so I figured I should take it. It's a much different place than Snowbird. I don't think I've skied a mountain that I could compare it to and definitely not when all the Sundancers were out. Nonetheless, I've checked another resort out. Onto the next.
9. Back to Big Sky Country
In January I made my first trip back to Montana to join some friends at Big Sky for a long weekend of skiing and debauchery. The monumental moment of the GNAR drinking game being invented happened during this trip. It was amazing to be with friends, on the mountain, in a ski town, and back in Montana. Apparently the vodka slushy machine is only active in the summer months (tragic) so a tequila slushy at The Wrap Shack had to suffice. Big Sky, you are lovely.
10. Snowshoeing for the first time.
During the winter you can typically find me with skis strapped to my feet. Given the mediocre ski climate, I decided to give these spiked flippers a shot and they were awesome. This event leads me to my next adventure.
11. Winter Hiking
I think about hiking often during the winter. I start planning my spring, summer, and fall hikes but never find myself considering them until winter is over usually because I'm too busy skiing. The weeks of 50-60 degree weather in Salt Lake has my mind working though. This past weekend I did some research and found that one of the spring hikes I had planned is also a popular winter snowshoe trail. Bingo! We headed to Big Cottonwood Canyon to start the hike. Twenty minutes later, our shirts were off and the sunscreen was applied. It was warm, too warm for February. Nonetheless, it was a great hike with a beautiful very that had me more excited than ever to start hiking around this beautiful state.
12. Hozier - my Irish love.
I am beyond stoked that I was able to see Hozier on his first US tour in Salt Lake. The Depot is a pretty intimate venue with all GA seating (which I love) and cheap tickets. The show was incredible and one of the better concerts I've ever been to. Thinking about it makes me swoon. Okay- I'll stop. But really if you ever have the opportunity to see him, do it. Also, if you are turned off because the only song you've ever heard is Take Me to Church, I dare you to listen to the rest of his album and see that it's very different, which I love.
13. Creamy Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers
I have made stuffed peppers before and honestly they weren't my favorite and I was disappointed. I wanted to give it another shot. These chicken enchilada peppers were a great success. I used dairy free cream cheese and quinoa instead of rice and they were delicious. Try them here.
14. Spring Skiing....in February
Instead of griping and crying about the weather, last weekend we decided to get out and spend our Saturday party skiing in the nearly spring conditions. The skiing was actually pretty great, the sun was out, and laughs were had. Go skiing with your friends.
15. Embracing the "Spring" Weather
So conditions a week later weren't the best on the mountain, but we gave it a go. My roommate led me to a few technical spots (including a Baldy hike) that will be awesome once it starts snowing again which was great. After the coffee high wore off, we threw in the towel and did the honorable thing: host a BBQ and act like it's summer.
This concludes the (20)15 adventures update. I promise I won't wait this long for another post. No matter what the weather is like, find a way to enjoy it. Hike, travel, ski, and eat like there's no tomorrow.
k.
To make up for it however, I have decided to dedicate this post to 15 things I've been up to in the new year. Everything from my travels, recipes, and new things I've embarked on to bring everyone up to speed on the happenings in my life. Sound good? Here we go.
1. The promised return to Taos for a ski trip.
 |
| Taos Ski Valley |
2. Thai Peanut Spaghetti Squash.
Personally, I love using spaghetti squash instead of pasta mainly because I love vegetables, it's healthier, and honestly just as easy to make as pasta. You can't beat making your own thai peanut sauce either. Give it a shot, found here
3. Backcountry Tour to White and Pink Pines, Little Cottonwood Canyon
As I've mentioned before, this is my first winter skiing in the backcountry. I've only been able to get out touring a couple times this season from plans and weather but every time I've gone it's been a new, great, challenging, and rewarding experience. As a beginner, I have been really grateful to be able to tag along with roommates and friends into the backcountry. This tour was my first double lap tour on two different ridges. Do you want legs of steel? Start alpine touring right now.
 | |
| My roommate, Matt, split boarding a ridge in the Pink Pines area |
Since moving to Utah, I've been able to see what an incredible backcountry community resides in the Wasatch and the value resources we have available. A couple weeks ago I took my first partner rescue class up at Brighton put on by the Utah Avalanche Center. Admitting to the fact that I had been out in the backcountry without having taken a course like this is a little embarrassing and I am very thankful to now have the necessary knowledge of partner rescue. It's the skill you hope you never have to use but wouldn't you want the peace of mind knowing that your ski partners know how to save you in the event that it was needed? I am grateful to work with the UAC in my job and have the resources they provide in my personal life. Be responsible and know before you go folks.
5. Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Long story short: This will be my go-to banana bread recipe from here on out.
So. Damn. Good. I doubled the cinnamon to cut down on the sweetness. Perfection. Find it here.
6. Missoula Gals Reunite
It hasn't been too long since I've moved to SLC, but no time is better than now to see your close friends. Lindsey, Jory, and Raechel made their way to Utah from all directions for a weekend of sunshine and laughs in the Beehive State. The beer didn't match up to Kettlehouse (as nothing will) but it's as if we were never apart. Until next time with these lovely gals...
7. Rollerblading in February
I love rollerblading. I was overly excited to see all of the fellow bladers that recreate at the park near my house. With all the tropical weather we have been having I have been trying to get out and blade when I can after work. I never thought I would be able to blade in January and February. I've put on many miles in the last 6 months and I'm thinking it may be time to get some new wheels if you know what I mean...
8. Exploring Utah resorts.
Winter has been on a bit of a hiatus this season but I made my goal to check out many Utah resorts this year and I needed to get a move on. I had the opportunity to ski at Park City so I figured I should take it. It's a much different place than Snowbird. I don't think I've skied a mountain that I could compare it to and definitely not when all the Sundancers were out. Nonetheless, I've checked another resort out. Onto the next.
9. Back to Big Sky Country
In January I made my first trip back to Montana to join some friends at Big Sky for a long weekend of skiing and debauchery. The monumental moment of the GNAR drinking game being invented happened during this trip. It was amazing to be with friends, on the mountain, in a ski town, and back in Montana. Apparently the vodka slushy machine is only active in the summer months (tragic) so a tequila slushy at The Wrap Shack had to suffice. Big Sky, you are lovely.
10. Snowshoeing for the first time.
During the winter you can typically find me with skis strapped to my feet. Given the mediocre ski climate, I decided to give these spiked flippers a shot and they were awesome. This event leads me to my next adventure.
11. Winter Hiking
I think about hiking often during the winter. I start planning my spring, summer, and fall hikes but never find myself considering them until winter is over usually because I'm too busy skiing. The weeks of 50-60 degree weather in Salt Lake has my mind working though. This past weekend I did some research and found that one of the spring hikes I had planned is also a popular winter snowshoe trail. Bingo! We headed to Big Cottonwood Canyon to start the hike. Twenty minutes later, our shirts were off and the sunscreen was applied. It was warm, too warm for February. Nonetheless, it was a great hike with a beautiful very that had me more excited than ever to start hiking around this beautiful state.
 |
| Frozen Lake Blanche and Sundial Peak |
I am beyond stoked that I was able to see Hozier on his first US tour in Salt Lake. The Depot is a pretty intimate venue with all GA seating (which I love) and cheap tickets. The show was incredible and one of the better concerts I've ever been to. Thinking about it makes me swoon. Okay- I'll stop. But really if you ever have the opportunity to see him, do it. Also, if you are turned off because the only song you've ever heard is Take Me to Church, I dare you to listen to the rest of his album and see that it's very different, which I love.
I have made stuffed peppers before and honestly they weren't my favorite and I was disappointed. I wanted to give it another shot. These chicken enchilada peppers were a great success. I used dairy free cream cheese and quinoa instead of rice and they were delicious. Try them here.
 |
| Delish |
Instead of griping and crying about the weather, last weekend we decided to get out and spend our Saturday party skiing in the nearly spring conditions. The skiing was actually pretty great, the sun was out, and laughs were had. Go skiing with your friends.
 |
| Ridge on top of The Cirque |
15. Embracing the "Spring" Weather
So conditions a week later weren't the best on the mountain, but we gave it a go. My roommate led me to a few technical spots (including a Baldy hike) that will be awesome once it starts snowing again which was great. After the coffee high wore off, we threw in the towel and did the honorable thing: host a BBQ and act like it's summer.
 |
| Bring out the driveway pong. |
This concludes the (20)15 adventures update. I promise I won't wait this long for another post. No matter what the weather is like, find a way to enjoy it. Hike, travel, ski, and eat like there's no tomorrow.
k.
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