The Casual Travelist Turns 4- Even More Adventures Near and Far

Four years ago as we all celebrated the start of 2014 I hit publish on the Casual Travelist. Little did I imagine then where this little blog would take me. In 2017 I celebrated 15 years of wedded bliss, struggled with and then embraced turning forty and welcomed my adorable little niece into our family. A surgery side-tracked me for the past few months but I’m ready to hit the road running (both travel-wise and fitness-wise, lack of exercise during recovery+holiday indulgence has definitely resulted in too tight pants syndrome). I visited 8 different states, 2 new countries and 1 new continent but I really feel that the best part of my blogging journey is all the people I’ve connected with both virtually and in person. I’m eternally grateful for all of you who have chosen to follow me on my little corner of the internet and I wish you a year full of happiness and adventure in 2018.

But first, let’s take a look back at 2017.

I’ve been married to this guy for 15 years

Easily the best decision I’ve ever made was saying “I do” to Steve. He gets my jokes, puts up with my crazy whims and we love each other completely. I can’t imagine anyone else I would rather be on this crazy ride called life with.

I Turned 40

In the weeks surrounding my birthday I had a huge mental block about the fact that I’ve been on this planet for four decades but I’ve slowly come to embrace it. I plan on making this decade my best yet.

More family to love

My brother and his wife welcomed this adorable nugget into their family. I mean seriously, how cute is she?

But let’s not forget about my first niece

I’ve loved watching Morgan grow into a thoughtful, sweet and fun 11 year old. I can’ wait to start taking her on more adventures in the coming years.

Or this handsome lad

My sister’s first boy has been such fun to get to know. In fact, this dude is expecting a new little brother any day now!

Took Steve’s Mom to Washington DC

I lucked out in the mother-in-law department, Steve’s Mom is one of the sweetest and most giving people I have ever met. She’s always wanted to go to Washington DC so of course we needed to make that happen.

Made some awesome new blogger friends

A few months later I was back in Washington DC but this time I met up with a group of fabulous ladies for the #bloggerstakethecity campaign. I’m hoping to meet up with everyone again in 2018!

Crossed a ride in a hot air balloon off the bucket list

One of the coolest things I’ve ever done, the views are spectacular!

Discovered that Colorado is one of the best places to ride a horse

Got my cowgirl on at the Rusty Spurr Ranch in Kremmerling, Colorado.

Became enchanted with Marrakech

This is a city that is equally of now and 1000 years ago. It’s a dynamic culture that is equally frenetic and romantic and it’s impossible not to be fully taken by it.

and fell in love with Portugal

With a relaxed, vibe, gorgeous architecture and amazing food I definitely need to make it back to Portugal sooner rather than later.

What were your highlights for 2017? Do you have any exciting plans for 2018? I’d love to hear about them in the comments!