You may have seen from our Instagram that I was actually up in D.C. when the big news this week broke…it was wild to feel the insane energy and stress in the halls of the Senate and House office buildings. But it did turn my meticulously planned trip topsy-turvy. Which was a really great reminder that no matter how much we plan, consider and prepare, there is only so much we can control. The easiest way to go through life is remembering that things happen not “to” us, but “for” us, it’s about our attitude. So this week, instead of banking countless hours walking around the streets of D.C., I managed to be home a little more and take care of backlogged projects. That’s not terrible.
We have plans (now that everyone is well *fingers crossed*) to head out on a new adventure: the Harry Potter festival! We can’t wait to see how this goes and what it’s all about. Feel free to follow along on our Instagram account.
It’s fun to tap into stuff right here in our own backyard. (We love proving that great family adventures are available even with a traditional lifestyle!)
Our Family Friday Five Roundup this week includes:
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1- This article on why some people grow into readers and some don’t. I could unpack this for hours:
“Reading will seem more like chocolate cake if it’s something that parents themselves take part in happily and regularly. “When I’m sitting there on my couch, reading a book, and my kids are doing their own thing, I like to think, ‘I’m parenting right now—they can see me reading this book,’” Russo told me. Similarly, Paul said that if “right after dinner, the first thing you do is scroll through your phone, open up your laptop, or watch TV,” kids are likely to take note. Parents are constantly sending their children messages with how they choose to spend their free time.”
2- How cute is this Fall Bucket List? While I usually stay far away from arbitrary to-do lists that make me stressed (‘what if we don’t do these things?! have we missed fall!?’) I like this one a lot.
3- I am on the hunt for new winter boots. I am in love with these, but they are not really practical for my life (and budget). I really like these, too, but worry about the heel – I walk a LOT. I am thinking these are the answer: simple, slight heel, can be worn with leggings, skirts or suit pants. Thoughts?
4- It’s camping season in our area! We are searching for some weekends to sneak away. I feel like a fun camping families would own these.
5- My newest obsession and adventure daydreaming? Renting one of these and touring around Maine for a week. Has anyone done this? I would love to see a blog post from real families who have tried this!
From the archives:
Traveling the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
The hint of fall has me remembering this trip...
We hope you have a great weekend, friends! And remember: the best trip is a family one!