Hello, fellow adventurers and food enthusiasts! While I don’t have a new recipe for you today, I’m thrilled to take a momentary detour from the kitchen to share a glimpse into the incredible summer I just experienced. Life isn’t just about delicious dishes; it’s about the sweet & savory moments we collect along the way. Out of countless photos I captured, I’ve curated a special selection to share the highlights of my recent adventures. If you’re anything like me, you probably struggle with taking “just a few” photos – I might have an entire hard drive dedicated to documenting every beautiful moment! Come along as I recount a summer filled with vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and heartwarming family reunions.
An Epic Summer Adventure: Tokyo, Mongolia & US National Park Road Trip
My summer escapade kicked off in late June with an exciting, albeit brief, stopover in one of the world’s most dynamic cities: Tokyo, Japan. With just an overnight layover, I was determined to soak in as much of this incredible metropolis as possible. Fortunately, the power of online connections came through! Through a Facebook group, I had the pleasure of knowing some wonderful foodie friends who live in Tokyo. They generously offered to show me around, transforming what could have been a simple transit into an unforgettable mini-adventure.
My time in Tokyo was truly enchanting. From the moment I stepped out, I felt like I had traveled into the future. The city’s efficiency and technological advancements were astounding, yet they were perfectly balanced with an unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service. Imagine dining at a restaurant where each table has a tablet for placing your order – a seamless and personalized experience! Or vending machines that read your payment card remotely, requiring just a wallet wave to grab your favorite drink. And let’s not even begin to describe the high-tech wonders of their public restrooms! Beyond the futuristic conveniences, I reveled in the city’s vibrant energy, enjoyed incredible Japanese cuisine, and shared many laughs with my fantastic company. It was a brief but potent taste of Japan’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.
One of the highlights was stopping at a bustling street food stand, reportedly a favorite haunt for many Japanese celebrities. The aroma of freshly prepared delicacies filled the air, offering a truly authentic culinary experience. It’s these small, vibrant moments that truly capture the essence of a city.
Of course, no Tokyo visit, however short, would be complete without experiencing the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Standing amidst the mesmerizing chaos of thousands of pedestrians crossing simultaneously, under the glow of neon lights, is an electrifying experience that truly embodies the pulse of Tokyo. It was an exhilarating start to my summer journey!
Homeland Embrace: A Month in Mongolia
My next destination held a much deeper personal significance: my beloved motherland, Mongolia. This visit allowed me the immense joy of spending an entire month immersed in family life. There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of being surrounded by my parents, sisters, nieces, and nephew. Time truly flies, and watching the children grow up so fast is a constant reminder to cherish every moment. My oldest niece, now two, is a chatterbox, engaging in non-stop conversations. The second niece, one, has mastered walking and running with boundless energy. And my nephew, who recently celebrated his first birthday, is quickly transforming into a sturdy little guy, determined to take his first independent steps. These precious family moments are the true treasures of life, grounding me and filling my heart with immeasurable love.
Celebrating Culture and Family in July
A definite highlight of my time in Mongolia was attending the renowned Naadam festival in my hometown, Erdenet city. Naadam is much more than a festival; it’s Mongolia’s national holiday, a vibrant celebration of the “Three Manly Games”: Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery. This ancient tradition showcases the strength, skill, and spirit of the Mongolian people. The atmosphere is electric, filled with colorful traditional attire, spirited competitions, and a deep sense of national pride. Witnessing these age-old customs firsthand, surrounded by family, was a truly enriching cultural experience.
Embracing the nomadic heritage, I also had the exhilarating opportunity to ride both a horse and a camel. There’s a profound connection to the land and tradition that comes with traveling across the vast Mongolian steppes on horseback, just as generations before have done. The camels, with their majestic gait, offered a different, equally memorable perspective of the rugged landscapes.
Another authentic Mongolian experience was a day spent camping by the river, where we prepared a traditional Mongolian meal called Khorkhog. This isn’t the “Mongolian barbecue” you might find in many American restaurants; it’s an entirely unique and traditional cooking method. Khorkhog involves cooking meat (often lamb or goat) and vegetables with hot stones inside a sealed container, typically a metal milk jug or pot. The intense heat from the stones slowly cooks the ingredients, infusing them with a distinct smoky flavor. It’s a communal affair, a true culinary adventure that highlights the resourcefulness and flavors of Mongolian cuisine. Sharing this hearty meal under the open sky, surrounded by nature, was an unforgettable memory.
Just before my vacation in Mongolia concluded, I received an exciting invitation to appear on a cooking TV show called “Sweet Kitchen.” This marked my very first television appearance, and it was an absolutely thrilling and fun experience! I had the pleasure of showcasing some of my favorite recipes, including my delicious mushroom quiche, a batch of delightful cheesecake bars, and a refreshing fruity sangria. It was an incredible opportunity to share my passion for cooking on a new platform and a fantastic way to cap off my stay in Mongolia.
North American Wonders: My Mom’s First US Visit & A Grand Road Trip
As all good things must eventually draw to a close, it was time to bid farewell to Mongolia and return home to my husband. This time, however, I had a very special travel companion: my wonderful mother, who was visiting the US for the very first time! We were eager to show her as much as we possibly could during her stay, creating a whirlwind tour of American beauty and culture. Our inaugural stop was the majestic Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a place where these magnificent creatures roam freely.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the rugged Badlands of North Dakota, offered my mom a truly authentic American wilderness experience. Witnessing herds of wild bison (often mistakenly called buffalos) grazing in their natural habitat was an awe-inspiring sight. The park’s dramatic landscapes, with their layered buttes and sparse grasslands, provided a stunning backdrop for our wildlife encounters. It was a perfect introduction to the vast and diverse natural beauty of the United States.
From the wilderness, we transitioned to urban exploration. My mom and I couldn’t resist a shopping excursion to the legendary Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This colossal shopping and entertainment complex was an adventure in itself! Afterwards, we sought a moment of tranquility at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, renowned for its iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture. It’s a wonderfully serene place, offering a peaceful escape amidst impressive modern art. The contrast between the vibrant mall and the calm garden truly highlighted the varied experiences America has to offer.
An Epic 1550-Mile Road Trip Through the Western US
A few weeks later, the ultimate adventure began: an incredible 1550-mile road trip with my mom and husband, Garrat. Our journey took us through the heart of the American West, traversing North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, and back to North Dakota. This expansive journey was a celebration of natural wonders, shared laughter, and unforgettable sights. Every mile brought a new panorama, a fresh discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the breathtaking landscapes of this country. The photos below are just a small testament to the fantastic time we shared!
Yellowstone National Park is nothing short of a magical place, a geological wonderland that continuously captivates. Its vibrant geothermal features, from erupting geysers to bubbling mud pots and colorful hot springs, are truly unlike anything else on Earth. My absolute favorite spot within the park is the mesmerizing Sapphire Pool, pictured here. Its water is unbelievably clear, a stunning shade of blue, and deceptively deep. But honestly, every corner of Yellowstone holds its own unique beauty, from the majestic waterfalls to the diverse wildlife that roams freely. Exploring its vastness was an experience that felt both humbling and exhilarating.
And here he is, my handsome husband, Garrat! He’s not just my adventure buddy but also my #1 taste tester for all the recipes I develop. I realize I haven’t shared many pictures of him on the blog before, so it’s high time to introduce the man who supports my culinary and travel passions!
Continuing our journey through Wyoming, we were greeted by the awe-inspiring peaks of Grand Teton National Park. The jagged, snow-capped mountains of the Teton Range rise dramatically from the valley floor, creating one of the most iconic and picturesque landscapes in North America. The pristine lakes and dense forests at their base add to the park’s majestic beauty, making it a photographer’s paradise and a hiker’s dream.
Our road trip then led us to Thermopolis, Wyoming, a truly fascinating town. It’s famous for its natural hot springs and unique geological formations. This incredible cliff you see in the picture is largely built from centuries of mineral deposits flowing from the mineral-rich waters. The vibrant colors and unique textures created by these natural processes are absolutely stunning and a testament to the Earth’s artistic power. It’s a neat blend of natural wonder and a charming small town feel.
Amidst the grand landscapes, we also encountered some adorable local wildlife, like this little guy. Clearly very focused on finding his next snack! These small moments of connection with nature add so much charm to any road trip.
The journey continued to unfold with one breathtaking mountain vista after another. The sheer scale and rugged beauty of these natural formations never ceased to amaze us. Each turn in the road offered a new, postcard-perfect scene, reminding us of the incredible diversity and grandeur of the American West.
Further into Wyoming, we visited Devils Tower, America’s first National Monument. This striking geological feature rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape, a colossal monolith formed by volcanic activity. Its distinctive fluted columns are a marvel of nature, steeped in both scientific intrigue and Native American legends. It’s an imposing and humbling sight, a true testament to the Earth’s ancient history.
Our final monumental stop on this epic road trip was Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. This iconic national memorial, featuring the carved faces of four influential US presidents, never fails to impress. This was actually my fourth visit, and each time, I’m still amazed by the sheer scale and intricate detail of this engineering marvel. It’s a powerful symbol of American history and an incredible sight to behold, a fitting culmination to our journey through these historic landscapes.
A Bittersweet Farewell in Denver
The very next week, Garrat and I traveled to Denver to see my mom off as she began her journey back home. It was a bittersweet day, filled with the sadness of parting but also immense gratitude for the precious time we spent together. Having my mom in the kitchen with me, sharing stories and laughs, had been an absolute joy, and I already missed her presence. To lighten the mood and create one last beautiful memory, my husband and I decided to visit one of our favorite spots: the Denver Botanic Gardens. During our visit, they were featuring a captivating Chihuly Exhibition, which added an extra layer of magic to the already stunning surroundings.
The Dale Chihuly glass art installations were simply breathtaking, transforming the already vibrant botanical gardens into an otherworldly display of color, light, and form. Each intricate glass sculpture seemed to bloom amidst the living plants, creating a stunning dialogue between nature and art. The exhibition was a magnificent spectacle, providing a serene and inspiring end to a summer of extraordinary adventures. It was a beautiful way to reflect on the diverse experiences of the past few months and to cherish the quiet moments together.
Stay Tuned for More Sweet & Savory Adventures!
I truly hope you enjoyed this extensive photographic journey through my unforgettable summer. It was a season rich with cultural immersion, family bonds, and the majestic beauty of both international and domestic landscapes. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil Mongolian steppes, and through the grandeur of America’s National Parks, every moment was a treasure. Thank you for joining me on this personal reflection!
Be sure to check back here on Friday! I’ll be returning to the kitchen to share a delightful new drink recipe that’s sure to brighten your day.
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