The Weekly Slice
Notes from the Desert
The Weekly Slice:
This week feels like a bit of a reset and a reminder of why we’re building all of this in the first place.
First things first, we officially moved over to Substack. And, I’m LOVING this platform so much.
I made this move for a few reasons, but the biggest one is connection. I don’t just want to post updates into the void. I want this to feel like a place where we actually interact. I would love this to be a place where conversations happen, where stories are shared, and where this little corner of the internet feels a bit more like sitting around a table after a long day in the desert.
I’ll be rolling out a group chat soon so we can talk all things Big Bend: hikes, hidden spots, where to stay, what to see, and honestly… just life out here. My goal with this space is simple: build something that feels real, not just another platform.
On another note, Easter weekend came in hot… and cold.
We were busy, but it came with its fair share of challenges. The power was flickering nonstop, a big temperature drop, and then a full outage this morning. If you’ve ever lived or worked out here, you know… when the power goes out, everything pauses whether you’re ready or not.
So I’m playing major catch up this morning by resetting, regrouping, and getting things back on track. The work never ends but I wouldn’t have it any other way. That’s the reality of running a business out here, it’s not always smooth, but you learn to roll with it.
One of the highlights from this past week is that we were able to donate almost $2,000 to the Big Bend Conservancy from our t-shirt proceeds.
That’s because of you. THANK YOU!
The Conservancy does incredible work out here by supporting trail restoration, conservation efforts, educational programs, and helping protect the natural beauty of Big Bend for generations to come. This place is special in a way that’s hard to explain unless you’ve experienced it yourself, and organizations like this are a huge part of keeping it that way.
So truly, thank you for being part of something bigger than just a purchase.
This weekend also reminded me why I love what we do.
I met so many of you. We talked hikes, favorite spots, where you’re staying, what you’re exploring next, and running businesses. Those conversations never get old to me. It’s wild how many people from all over the world end up right here in this tiny desert town and we get to be a small part of your trip.
If you’re heading this way, here are my top 5 hikes you have to experience:
Lost Mine Trail
Santa Elena Canyon
Balanced Rock
Closed Canyon (Big Bend Ranch State Park)
Chimneys Trail
Each one gives you a completely different side of Big Bend, and that’s what makes this place so special.
But here’s the deal and I’m going to be direct about this because it matters:
The desert doesn’t care if you’re experienced or not.
You always need to bring more water than you think you need and add electrolytes. There’s not a lot of room for mistakes out here in Big Bend. Please check the weather, bring snacks, and always let someone know where you will be.
Respect the desert, and it will give you an experience you’ll never forget.
Grateful for this week. Grateful for the chaos, the conversations, the support, and the chance to keep building something meaningful out here.
More soon, especially inside Substack.
Please subscribe so we can keep the content going! Love you guys!
-M