Our family’s quick getaway to Idaho was full of firsts—first flights for the kids, first time trading the Texas heat for cool mountain air, and first memories we’ll cherish for a lifetime. From the winding mountain roads that begged us to stop and explore, to the breathtaking fall colors that painted the landscape, our three days at Tamarack Resort for a family wedding were unforgettable. With plenty of laughs, adventures, and even a few wild dance moves, this trip left us craving more time in Idaho’s natural beauty.

As the trip wrapped up, we soaked in the last bit of Atlanta’s energy before heading home. From unexpected finds to familiar sights, the city delivered a mix of moments that made the journey worthwhile. This final leg was a reminder of the value in exploring, even if it’s just a few days away, and taking in the details that make each place unique.

With a full stomach and a few hours to spare, we set out to explore more of Atlanta’s downtown. We meandered through Centennial Park, taking in the city’s mix of history and modern energy, and I couldn’t resist capturing a few shots along the way. Between the afternoon heat and the buzz of the city, the day felt like a blend of work and discovery—a pace that suited our first day in town perfectly.

This trip recap will be a little different—rather than one long story, I’m breaking it into parts, capturing moments from my journey to Atlanta. Starting with a 3:45 AM wake-up call, I navigated the quiet San Antonio airport before touching down in a city far greener than the drought-ridden landscape back home. Day one brought the usual travel quirks, from jostling through airport crowds to grabbing an impromptu breakfast at Apache XLR, where live jazz and chicken and waffles stole the show. Here’s the first leg of a quick but memorable few days in Atlanta.

I do not always travel for work, but when I do, it tends to be fun. Quick trip to Quincy, Illinois courtesy of Knapheide. Cameras were not allowed in the Knapheide facilities; thus all of the images were taken while on the move.