Explore Some Serious NASA Goodness with Scotty and his little buddy Grogu

🚀✨ Scott and his trusty traveling pal, Grogu, make quite the dynamic duo on their cosmic adventures! From wandering through the winding corridors of history to exploring the vast expanses of space, these two always manage to bring an extra dash of fun to every expedition. With Scott's boundless enthusiasm and Grogu's insatiable curiosity, together, they've ventured to the far reaches of the galaxy – or at least to the Kennedy Space Center! Amidst the towering rockets and fascinating exhibits, Scott and Grogu found themselves immersed in a world where the boundaries of imagination blur with the wonders of science. And let me tell you, folks, it was a journey like no other! 🌟

🚀✨ At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the journey through space exploration is organized into captivating Mission Zones, each offering a unique glimpse into the epic saga of humans venturing beyond Earth's bounds.

It started at the Early Space Exploration Zone, where we discover the remarkable achievements and daring adventures that paved the way for people's journey to the stars. Scotty got approving looks from a lot of other Star Wars Fans as he and little buddy explored these zones.

Then, venture onward to the Golden Age of Spaceflight in the Space Race Zone, where the intense rivalry between nations fueled groundbreaking missions and monumental milestones. As you traverse the complex, you'll encounter the Modern Space Exploration Zone, where the latest advancements and ongoing missions showcase people's continued quest to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos.

From all the historic artifacts, which were my favorite parts, to some pretty cool interactive exhibits, each Mission Zone offers a hands-on exploration. So, whether you're a seasoned space enthusiast - which frankly I am not- or a curious explorer Scotty and Little Buddy are, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex promises an unforgettable days journey through some serious cosmic discovery. 🌟

Want your own Little Buddy for your adventures? Get one Here

……….And stay tuned - our next post will be all about our trip to Roswell, New Mexico!!

Wandertogs Chronicles: Exploring the World with Scotty, My Spirited Goofball of a Travel Companion

In honor of Scott’s birthday I wanted to share a special post all about him. Enjoy….

Embarking on a journey filled with laughter, smiles, and unforgettable moments is a privilege not everyone gets to experience. Believe me when I say I KNOW this to be true. My folks never got to travel in their retirement because my dad passed before my folks had the chance to hit the road together. Quite frankly— this is just one of the BIG reasons we decided to go for it.

And lets be very clear here as well - I’ve been blessed with a traveling partner (some of you know him as Scotty Pants,) whose goofiness and zest for life have turned every expedition into a pretty darn delightful adventure. Let’s review just a few of the antics Scott has tossed at me…Ah yes, the joyous escapades, the quirky antics, and the sheer bliss of having a goof ball companion by my side…. See Photos Below

A Symphony of Goofiness:

From the bustling streets of downtown Boston, MA to the serene landscapes of the Saguaro National Park, NM to the heights of Mount Rainier, WA -  Scotty has made every destination a canvas for his playful theatrics. His ability to turn even the most mundane situations into moments of hilarity has become a defining feature of our travels. Whether he's pulling silly faces in front of ancient landmarks or attempting to jog across the gypsum of White Sands National Park, Scotty's infectious energy has a way of turning most photos into a memory that makes me smile and laugh out loud.

Scotty on the Run - ——————————— - At White Sands National Park.

Capturing the Madness:

One of the highlights of our adventures is the perpetual game of cat and mouse – me, trying to capture the essence of each place through my lens, and Scotty, determined to inject a dose of his signature goofiness into every frame. It's a challenge, but it's a challenge I gladly accept, knowing that these candid shots will be the visual diary of our laughter-filled journey.

The Magic of Goofy Moments:

As the saying goes, "It's not about the destination, but the journey." In our case, the journey so far has been a plethora of silliness. Traveling with Scotty has taught me that the real magic lies not only in the breathtaking landscapes but also in the shared moments of silly companionship. Each goofy face and oddball antic is a reminder that we're not just exploring the world; we're creating a treasure trove of moments that have reflected our moods. Travel makes us feel alive and grateful. 

Solo travel has its allure, and back when I was 22 years old - a fresh faced graduate from RIT - I’d planned a trip across the USA - all by myself. Many adventurous stops and a lot of photos were planned and but never achieved. Maybe I was not suppose to go it alone… The universe certainly had other plans for me. 

So today, having Scotty as my partner in crime has elevated the entire experience. There's an undeniable comfort and security that comes with sharing your adventures with someone who not only understands your quirks but adds to them. I’ve always loved Scotty Pants’ quirks and have found him most charming (well, at least when he’s not annoying me….) As the great explorer Tim Cahill once said, "A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles." Scotty has proven to be not just a friend but the perfect companion, making the journey more enjoyable.

In the grand tapestry of life, finding someone who can make you laugh in the face of the unknown is a rare and precious gift. Scotty, my Wandertogs traveling partner, has transformed our explorations into little joy filled moments everywhere we have gone. And I wanted to share with you some of these moments….

Rock-Hopping Adventures: Where Deserts Collide and Rocks Become Our Playground at Joshua Tree National Park

Howdy, Trailblazing Wandertog Friends!

Let’s get you geared up for a pretty little expedition into the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts converge, creating a sprawling geological playground. Lots of beautiful nature and rocks (- OH the rocks!  We love rocks!) …all waiting to be explored.

Joshua Tree National Park

Mojave and Colorado Collide

Yup, Joshua Tree National Park is where these two desert ecosystems collide, showcasing a wide array of plants and critters! Like the wood rats. I personally did not see a single one but there were signs and indications they live all around the area… But lets not discuss rats (unless we are talking about my favorite rat, Remy, from Ratatouille, but that a different blog post). Can we talk about the the absolutely gorgeous Cholla Cactus Garden? We arrived here just as the sun was setting behind the mountains. All the Cholla cactus looked fuzzy! (they are not fuzzy they are definitely spikey and pokey, trust me) and were glowing from being back lit by the strong sunshine.

That was the moment we got excited and jumped out of the van scrambling to grab cameras and get in there among them. We were NOT the only folks bathing in the glowing light. There were many people wandering around and we did our best to take images without them in the background. But let’s face it people, that is what PhotoShop is best at, right? Removing unwanted bits and pieces from our images so we can craft our visions. You know you all do it too!

The Cholla Cactus Gardens: It’s a Prickly Affair (see what I did there?) Don’t they look FUZZY!?!

Under the Stars and Amongst Rocks

The night sky over Joshua Tree is nothing short of spectacular –  just a canvas of stars that'll have you gazing for hours. How do I know this? well you see - I was so busy looking up I forgot to take the camera out. SO - I have no evidence to make my point, so you’ll just have to take my word for it… We settled down and camped out amidst the colossal rocks in the aptly named Jumbo Rock Campground. Here is where we got the feeling we were modern-day cave persons, or maybe one of the Flintstones! It was a very Flintstones feeling. The rocks surrounding us are shaped by the harshest winds and some very sporadic rain. The next morning we trekked over to Skull Rock. Why is it called Skull rock you may wonder?

Skull Rock Shenanigans

Have you seen Skull Rock? It a very surreal geological feature that looks like a warped, big nosed, beast - how did nature create such a creature???

Speaking of rocks…the urge to climb every boulder became a bit of a mission for us. Forget magic and grandeur of the distant landscape; it's all about the primal joy of conquering as many rock formations as you can! Feeling like cave people, we scaled and scrambled, reveling in the simple pleasure of connecting with the geological wonders around us.. Feeling like we could conquer every rock in sight –which is just childish, idiotic, ludicrous, nonsensical, preposterous, ridiculous or simply just stupid -  especially since I had that falling off a rock incident at City of Rocks state parks last April—- but, it really felt like a jungle gym out there. And even though we are not technical rock climbers. (We did see plenty of those all around us.) We had just kept going and going!! It was FUN!!!

Come Join the Rock-Hopping Brigade!

Enough talk about all this fun, maybe it's time to kick up some dust and explore Joshua Tree National Park for yourself?!? Swap the office for the enchantment and the thrill of navigating rocky terrain, feeling like a cave person, and maybe, just maybe, you too can climb every rock in sight. It's an earthy adventure that's only a little less about wonder and more about getting your hands (and possibly knees) all scrapped up and just a little dirty…

Want to see more images? Join us Wandertogs as we uncover the wild side of nature, one rock at a time. Our images from Joshua Tree can be found here: Joshua Tree

Stay tuned for more tales of our other escapades, behind-the-scenes silliness, and visuals that capture the unfiltered joy of our travel love affair.

Thank you for being part of the Wandertogs community. Let's continue to explore, climb, and laugh our way through the great outdoors.

Happy trails,

Scott and Donna

Wandertogs Founders and Rock-Hopping Enthusiasts

Gila Cliff Dwellings; Hiking Amongst History

Greetings, Wandertogs wanderers!

We're excited to share the tale of our recent expedition to the Gila Cliff Dwellings. Nestled in the heart of New Mexico, these ancient abodes tell a story that spans thousands of years – a narrative of nomads crafting pottery, raising families, and scribbling on the walls (one of my favorite parts actually)— ultimately leaving behind a testament to their existence.

View up towards the Gila Cliff Dwelling from the trail. “Scotty, Are we there yet??” “Only 5 more minute’s, Donna.” “Ya, Right, Scotty Pants….”

A Glimpse into the Past

These nomads sought to build a life up there in the caves they built rooms, molded pottery, and nurtured children within the cliff dwellings. Fast forward to approximately 1300, and the Mogollon people had moved on, leaving these silent stone walls to echo their legacy. And you too can see what they left behind -  IF - you are willing to take on the breathtaking ascent. It was a total of about 616 stairs, round trip – and that's not even counting the creaky ladders within the dwellings! As we climbed, we couldn't help but marvel at the resilience of these folks who once called these heights home, but my simple question was “did they not have vertigo back then??”

Up or Down this is how we got around…

Travel Tip: Take the advice of the ranger when she tells you to use a sturdy walking stick while doing this loop and trekking those 616 stairs. These stairs are not even! …and there are no hand rails in the upper portion of the trail. Borrowing the wooden stick was the best advice ever! Saved my knees and helped with staying balanced as you look up or down from the cliffs.

Living on the Edge

Standing in the midst of these ancient rooms and structures, we dared to contemplate and fantasize about what life might have been like for the Mogollon people. I mean look at these beautiful views!! But reality set in quickly – the heights were dizzying, and the thought of rolling off the cliff on the first night was a sobering reminder that my sad weak knees weren't quite ready for such extreme living arrangements. (Insert sad crowd sound here)

Conversations with Ravens

The adventure extended beyond the cliff dwellings, as we explored the surrounding area. The landscape told its own story, and with each step, we saw many unique designs in the petroglyphs, but one of our favorite moments was when our journey included unexpected companions – a mated pair of Ravens!! They seemed wise and watchful, perhaps they are willing to share tales of their own?

These Ravens, seemingly guardians of this ancient realm, became our partners in exploration. There was much cawing and flapping of wings so we spent more than a few moments just hanging out with them, engaging in what felt like a conversation about the best strategies for finagling a little tourist-provided feast. Their intelligence and playful banter added an unexpected layer of magic to our already awe-inspiring journey.

Mated Pair of Ravens Living at the Cliff Dwelling: Huginn and Muninn perhaps?

Scotty got on top of a ladder here to get this stunning view from inside the dwelling out over the valley below.

Relive the Adventure

Want to see more? We've curated a small collection of images from here capturing the essence of Gila Cliff Dwellings – from the towering heights to the intricate details of ancient craftsmanship. Continue the visual journey with us by visiting our gallery https://erbphotography.zenfoliosite.com/gila-cliff-dwellings.

Every purchase directly supports our journey and allows us to continue capturing the essence of America's diverse landscapes. So thank you!

Join Us on the Clifftop

As Wandertogs, we invite you to explore the world with us, one adventure at a time. Stay tuned for more tales from our travels, behind-the-scenes moments, and of course, the stunning visuals that make our journey truly unforgettable.

Thank you for being part of the Wandertogs community. Let's continue to wander, wonder, and weave our stories together.

Happy trails,

Scott and Donna

Wantertogs Founders and Explorers Extraordinaire

Wandertogs Scott and Donna at Gila

Don’t know if you noticed but Scotty is actually wearing his Raven Inspired T-shirt he designed on the day we went to Gila. No wonder the Ravens wanted to hang out with us! We are part of their tribe!!

Foggy Fun in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Gatlinburg, TN

Greetings, Wantertogs community!

We're thrilled to share the latest chapter in our photographic odyssey with you. Of course we were looking forward to our time in the Great Smoky Mountains seeing soaring views of the mountains and enjoying beautiful vistas. But Mother Nature was laughing at us and our expectations… the elements had a unique surprise in store for us – a blanket of enchanting fog that cloaked the majestic mountains, transforming the landscape into an ethereal wonderland. Ummm, but we came to see the MOUNTAINS damn it!! These are THE Great Smoky Mountains!! Renowned for their breathtaking vistas, but oh no, during our visit, nature decided to play a game of hide and seek. Thick fog veiled the peaks. I guess we could look at these from another point of view… maybe the fog is shrouding them in mystery… and creating an otherworldly ambiance. Despite the obscured views, the atmosphere WAS nothing short of magical, with each step further along the trails revealing a new layer of beauty.

Navigating Challenges, Finding Beauty

Ok, ok… as professional photographers, we can easily embrace the unexpected! Right? So- The fog, though initially surprising, became a our hero and our subject of the day. The challenge of capturing the essence of the Smokies without the iconic mountainous backdrop led us to focus on the subtler details – the dew-kissed leaves, the silhouettes of towering trees, and the small waterfalls flowing swiftly. Now that we stopped and really spent time looking, there seemed to be an ethereal glow that surrounded everything.

TRAVEL TIP: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail -a 5.5 mile loop- is spectacular - but large vehicles will not do well on this skinny road with many hairpin tight turns and views looking down the side of the mountain. Drive Slow and Be Careful!

A Visual Feast: Our Foggy Collection

We're excited to unveil a curated collection of images that encapsulate our visit and the surreal beauty of the fog-laden Great Smoky Mountains. Each photograph has its own inherent allure of nature, of the “foggy goodness”, if you will. See the full collection of images by clicking here: https://erbphotography.zenfoliosite.com/great-smokey-mountains

Bringing the Foggy Magic to You

These captivating images are not just meant for our screens but for your homes as well. You can now bring the Foggy Smoky Mountains into your living space by purchasing prints of your favorite shots. Every purchase directly supports our journey and allows us to continue capturing the essence of America's diverse landscapes.

How to Purchase Your Piece of the Fog

  • Browse the Collection: Visit our online gallery showcasing the Foggy Smoky Mountains collection. 

  • Select Your Favorites: Choose the images that resonate with you the most. From mystical forest scenes to dreamy mountain valleys, there's something for every nature enthusiast.

  • Tag and Share: Once you've made your purchase, don't forget to share your new piece of art on social media. Tag us [@Wantertogs] and use the hashtag #FoggySmokies to join the conversation.

  • Spread the Word: Help us reach more art lovers by sharing our Foggy Smoky Mountains collection with your friends and family. Your support means the world to us!

Join Us on the Journey

The Wantertogs adventure continues, and we're grateful to have you alongside us. From fog-shrouded mountains to sun-drenched landscapes, every destination holds its own unique charm. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes stories, travel tips, and, of course, stunning visuals from our journey across the USA.

Thank you for being part of the Wantertogs community. Let's explore the world together, one photograph at a time.

Happy travels,

Scott and Donna

Wantertogs Founders and Photographers

Buy the Leaf Shirt created from a Smoky Mountain image by Scotty - On our Wandertogs Etsy Site!

Shenandoah National Park; A Billion Deer and Counting (ok maybe not a billion…)

Greetings, Wandertogs Wanderers!

Join us on a delightful escape - just 75 miles away from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., to the serene haven of Shenandoah National Park. Picture spilling waterfalls, stunning views, and peaceful wooded hollows – a land where nature unfolds its beauty.

Skyline Drive at Sunset

Seeing Nature's Wonders

Shenandoah National Park has over 200,000 acres of protected lands, this park is a haven for deer, songbirds, and, although we missed them, the elusive black bear. Deer, on the other hand, put on a spectacular show – we're pretty sure we met about a billion of them!

While we may not have spotted any black bears, our journey was a deer lover's dream. These graceful creatures seem to be the unofficial hosts of Shenandoah, greeting visitors with curious gazes and the occasional playful leap. It's like being in a real-life Bambi movie! But wander slowly driving down the winding roads because they do not move quickly out of the roads. And while we sat in camp we watched them run around us in circles. They passed through the campground with curiosity and then sped away off through the woods.

Travel Tip: Black bears are the only bears found in Shenandoah and there are plenty of bears in the hundreds of square miles that comprise the Park – we heard it is approximately 1 to 4 bears per square mile! This means you have a fairly good chance of seeing a black bear while you're here. So please oh please - if you plan on carrying bear spray - Make sure that you know how to use it before entering the park!!

Skyline Drive: A Scenic Drive Worth Taking

Buckle up for one of the most breathtaking drives of our journey – Skyline Drive. If you're a fall views enthusiast, this is your ticket to leaf-peeping paradise. The vibrant hues of autumn foliage paint the landscape in a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a must-see for anyone craving a nature-infused escape.

Tranquility Beyond Measure

Shenandoah is not just about the sights; it's a sanctuary for the soul. Clear your mind as you immerse yourself in the glorious landscape, where each turn of the trail reveals a new marvel. Whether you're strolling up a steep mountain trail or pausing in quiet forest land, the tranquility is palpable.

We extend an invitation for you to experience the magic of Shenandoah National Park. Thank you for being part of the Wandertogs community. Let's wander through Shenandoah's wonders together! Want to see more of the images we took while enjoying our time there. Click to see the gallery here. https://erbphotography.zenfoliosite.com/shenandoah-national-park

Join us, Wandertogs, as we continue to uncover the gems of our journey. 

Stay tuned for more tales from the trails, tips for nature lovers, and visuals that capture the heart and soul of our travel escapades.

Happy trails,

Scott and Donna

Wantertogs Founders and Nature Enthusiasts Extraordinaire

Scotty could not be more excited about that sunset! I mean look at those mountains! Right?

Unveiling Scott's New Creative Outlet: A Journey Through Our Etsy T-Shirt Store


In a world full of mass-produced fashion, finding unique and artistic clothing can be a real treasure hunt. Fortunately, you've landed on the right page! Welcome to our Etsy store, a whimsical romp where you'll discover an eclectic collection of T-shirts that showcase all our interests-Van life, fun photography ideas, minimalism, man and women in nature, and a riot of colorful, imaginative designs.

The Creative Minds Behind the Scenes

At the heart of our Etsy store is Scott, a talented and imaginative artist who pours his love of these topics into each and every design. Scott's creations offer a refreshing escape from the mundane and they're a canvas for Scott's artistic expression of ideas.

Diversity in Design

Our store is a trove of artistic diversity. We've embraced various themes that cater to a broad spectrum of tastes:

  • Fun Photography Ideas: Scott's fascination with photography is evident in our collection, where camera shutter clicks meet creative brilliance.

  • Minimalism: Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. We offer minimalistic designs that make a powerful statement with their subtlety.


Click to link through to our store: WanderTogs ShopWoman in Nature T-Shirts. Men in Nature T-Shirts.

  • Man and Women in Nature: Nature is a never-ending source of inspiration. Our shirts reflect the harmony between humankind and the environment.

  • Colorful and Creative Designs: For those who believe that fashion should be an explosion of colors, we have a range of shirts that defy the ordinary.

The Impact of Supporting Small Businesses

When you purchase from our Etsy store, you're not just buying a T-shirt; you're investing in the dreams and aspirations of a small business. Our small buisness. Your support allows us to keep doing what we love and share our passion with the world. So thank you!

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and your support can have a significant impact. By shopping with us, you're helping to create jobs, support local artisans, and foster the growth of a truly unique artistic community.

Moreover, Scott's creativity doesn't stop at T-shirts. Our store is only the beginning of our artistic journey. We have big plans to expand our range to include other exciting items, all carrying the same spirit of kookiness and fun. So stay tuned for more items to dop over the next few weeks.

By supporting us, you're an integral part of this journey. Thank you!

Link to Our Etsy Store can be found here.