Embracing Summer Adventures: Our Escape to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Maybe I’m hopelessly optimistic, but every summer, I make the mistake of thinking I will have MORE time with the boys out of school. 🌞 Here I am, three weeks since my last post! Life has been a whirlwind with our house upside down due to some necessary remodeling and Tye’s recovery from surgery. Despite the chaos, we managed to sneak away for Father’s Day up to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Every. Single. Time. I ask myself why we don’t do this more often! You could spend every weekend up there and still not take in everything these incredible parks have to offer.
As many of you know, I’ve always been a still photography enthusiast. Recently, though, I’ve been enjoying incorporating video into my projects. So, I decided to see if I could capture a bit of Kings Canyon with my iPhone 14 Pro. After hours of watching YouTube tutorials, I’m still not convinced my shooting has improved much. Tad keeps insisting I need to invest in a proper video camera—mostly because he wants to use it. 😂
Regardless, I had SO MUCH fun bringing what I captured into After Effects. My love affair with AE continues… ❤️ There’s something incredibly satisfying about piecing together moments to create a story, even if it’s just a snippet of our adventures.
Another exciting discovery this week: I found that I also enjoy working with video footage I didn’t shoot myself. It opens up a whole new realm of creative possibilities!
Why Sequoia and Kings Canyon Should Be on Your Bucket List!
If you haven’t been to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you absolutely must add them to your bucket list. The breathtaking landscapes, towering sequoias, and dramatic canyons are simply awe-inspiring. You could easily spend every weekend exploring and still not see it all.
Tips for Your Visit:
- Plan Ahead:
- There are a variety of trails for all ages and fitness levels.
- Pack Smart:
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers.
- and if you have teenage boys, more snacks!
- Take Your Time:
- Don’t rush through. Allow yourself to soak in the beauty and tranquility.
- Even if you only drive up to picnic at Panoramic. I promise, it’s absolutely worth it!!!!!
Final Thoughts
Life can be hectic, but it’s so important to carve out time for adventures and making memories. Our trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon was a refreshing reminder of this. Whether you’re into photography, videography, or just looking for a peaceful escape, these parks offer something for everyone.
Stay tuned for more creative exploration, until then, keep exploring and embracing the beauty around you!
Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.
– Mary Lou Cook
nikolaidesigns.com 
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