Muir Woods | San Francisco, California

Earlier this year, Markus and I were lucky enough to group a work trip with a mini vacation in San Francisco. Markus never visited California and this was something that need to be remedied quickly. Thankfully our friends Wendy and John lived in the Bay Area and were nice enough to let us stay with them.

We spent most of our time exploring the Bay Area and the surrounding cities. When we tired of the hustle and bustle of city life, we escaped for a few hours to visit Muir Woods. The park was absolutely stunning and the Sequoias were incredible. I've never seen anything like it and was grateful for the little interlude into the woods.

Goldberry Woods Bed and Breakfast | Union Pier, Michigan

For my 31st birthday last year, Markus took me to a fantastic bed and breakfast in Michigan, Goldberry Woods. Usually I plan all of our trips, but he wouldn't let me plan a thing. It was quite the reversal and it was wonderful! Goldberry Woods is quite magical.

All the rooms at Goldberry are named after types of trees. The beds are also constructed with materials from the same tree. Markus booked the American Hornbeam room and the bed was something out of a Tim Burton movie. Some people would've been terrified, but I loved it. When you looked up at the branches at night, it felt like sleeping in the woods. We spent most of our time traipsing about in the forest and visiting antique shops. It was the perfect weekend and I'm so thankful that I have a husband who plans such great trips!

Cruz Family Christmas Card

For the past nine years, all I've wanted to do is send customized Christmas cards. The most important part of this process? The photo. Thankfully Markus booked a couple nights at this awesome bed and breakfast, Goldberry Woods, for my birthday. Goldberry is in Michigan and just an hour and half outside the city. It's definitely an idyllic spot and the perfect place for a festive photo.

On Saturday morning, we woke up early and donned our matching outfits. It snowed the night before and it created a beautiful winter wonderland. We trekked through a nearby forest and found so many great spots. We took so many photos and in the end, had way too many to choose from. The photo above is the one we ultimately chose. We thought it was playful and perfectly showcased our personalities. I'm a bit sad that we can't use any of the other photos, but at least I get to share them with you!

Arashiyama's Bamboo Groves | Kyoto, Japan | 2 of 2

When we were walking through the bamboo groves in Arashiyama, I was reminded of the fight scene in "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon." After watching it again, I see the ridiculousness of that scene. Could you imagine trying to stand on top of a bamboo tree and then doing some sort of martial art?  Anyway, enjoy the final installment of photos from Arashiyama's bamboo groves. If you're ever in Kyoto, make sure you visit. It's a beautiful tranquil spot that I have yet to see anywhere else in the world!

Arashiyama's Bamboo Groves | Kyoto, Japan | 1 of 2

I know I've said it before, but Kyoto is absolutely beautiful. The city has so much to offer and it was spectacular. Another must see spot is the bamboo groves of Arashiyama. It's a bit of a trek out of the city center, but it's worth it. I've seen bamboo forests at the Morikami Museum in Florida, but nothing can compare to this. It feels like the bamboo goes on for ages and it's quite tranquil. I love the sound of bamboo swaying in the wind. Its the perfect place to stop and ponder the wonders of life.