The Groves

The Groves

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Ode to the Park Service (and Sign Photos)

Dear NPS,

Have I told you enough times how much I love you? How happy I am that you not only exist, but that you're such an integral part of my life?

From my earliest childhood memories to the present, you've been there. You're turning one hundred years old today, and I've only been there for a quarter of it. And I still haven't seen even close to enough of you.






























We've gone on lots of canyoneering trips together... and this isn't even CLOSE to all of them.





You've been an integral part of my relationship and marriage with my husband. Together we've visited 13 different national parks and have plans to bring that number to 20 by the end of the year. We got engaged in a park, and spent our honeymoon in a park. We've been to the Tetons EVERY YEAR since 2012 (yeah, okay, that's only 5 years, but still).

You could say we're obsessed.


















Basically, other than my husband (and maybe the dog), you're the most important thing in my whole entire life. You've always been there. And it's obviously more than just the sign photos (though I love those). There's just something intangible about the fact that we've set aside land for everyone to use, and it's beautiful and pristine and wonderful. You, Park Service, are everything good about this world. I love you so much, and I'm always excited to spend serious quality time with you. 

Love, your devoted fan(s),
Jen (and Brady) Groves


P.S. Don't even get me started on those freaking hats. 75% of my desire to become a park ranger honestly stems from extreme wanting to wear one of those hats every day. I'm serious.