
Welcome to Our Changing Lives!
We’ve come a long way from our early days with a local restaurant blog called “The Dotte Life” to launching Our Changing Lives in 2017. As our readership grew, we realized the power of connecting with others through travel. Once our nest was empty, we embraced the freedom to explore new destinations and share those experiences with you.
Our goal is simple: to show you how to “Visit Like a Local.” Our itineraries are designed to take you off the beaten path, beyond the interstates, into the heart of the places we visit. We believe in choosing cultural experiences that immerse you in the local flavor so you can leave with a deeper understanding of each destination.
Meet Jeff:

Jeff is the author and researcher behind Our Changing Lives, combining his love for history, trivia, and exploration. His talent for unearthing hidden stories and quirky attractions brings each destination to life. Whether he’s diving into a town’s history or seeking out the unexpected, Jeff’s enthusiasm and curiosity infuse every post, offering our readers a rich and engaging experience.
Meet Crystal:

Crystal is the face of Our Changing Lives, building connections with our audience through social media and on-the-ground experiences. Her attention to detail ensures that every stop is captured, from chatting with locals to uncovering hidden gems. Crystal’s patience is key in those perfect photos, especially when it means waiting to dig into a meal. Her approachable, friendly nature adds a personal touch that makes our stories resonate with readers.
Wonder Twin Powers Activate:

Jeff and Crystal share a passion for uncovering the best of each destination. While Jeff researches historical tidbits and hidden gems, Crystal connects with locals, creating a balance that makes every journey rich in stories and authentic experiences. Their shared love for local culture and small businesses keeps their travels fresh and their blog true to its mission: helping readers “Visit Like a Local.”
Interested In Collaborating With Us?
We love discovering new destinations, especially those with local flavor. If you’re interested in collaborating with us, we’d love to hear from you! Check out more details through the link below, and let’s explore new adventures together.

Check out our most recent interview for some additional insight into our goals and aspirations!
What It's All About!
Food:

A meal at Legacy Kansas was the perfect end to our Abilene day trip. Food has always been the heart of our journey, and dining at locally owned restaurants lets us experience the soul of each community. From hidden gems to local specialties, we love sharing these culinary discoveries with you, supporting small businesses along the way.
Finds:

We’re always on the lookout for locally owned shops that offer something unique. These stores are often packed with handcrafted goods and regional treasures, each telling a story of the place. Chatting with shop owners often leads to even more insider tips, adding an extra layer of authenticity to our travels.
Fun:

We believe life’s too short not to make the most of it, so we’re on a mission to visit all 50 states and explore nearby destinations. We hope our adventures inspire you to take your own trips, and we’re always excited to hear about your experiences. Drop us a line with suggestions or stories from your travels!
We wish you safe travels and hope to see you out on the road, exploring the world one local experience at a time!

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