Things to do in Ankara, Türkiye (the capital city)
While on our Intrepid Travel tour of Turkiye, we found ourselves looking for things to do in Ankara. Our tour (full review coming later, so stay tuned) provided a lot
Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkiye: Is this experience worth it?
I was in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey. Sometimes, I have to pinch myself to believe this is even my life. A hot air balloon in Cappadocia! This
Top 11 Things To Do in Istanbul, Turkiye with 48 Hours
While on our Intrepid trip in October, we ended in Istanbul. We were on the prowl for things to do in Istanbul in 48 hours (or, actually, even less!). I’ll
What to Expect Inside a Turkish Hammam (A Beginner’s Guide to the Turkish Hammam)
When I went to Istanbul last October, I wanted to try a Turkish hammam (also called a Turkish bath) but had no idea what to expect. I understood this to
A Two week (+) Family Friendly Itinerary the Alps (lots of Switzerland!)
When I started to craft our itinerary for our huge European trip, our itinerary in the Swiss Alps, for our family it was a fair amount of work – and
What to Do Around Neuschwanstein: Hohenschwangau & Füssen Germany Ideas
This was a travel moment of magic and tear-jerking beauty for us. While in Füssen, near Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein, we were exploring without a plan one beautiful summer evening. Since
Book Recommendations 2024
It is time for one of my favorite yearly traditions: my annual post on books! For the past several years, I have been busting through anywhere between 50-60 books a
How to Hike Northface Trail in Switzerland – and Visiting Mürren
Hiking the Northface Trail in Switzerland was one of our favorite adventures during our summer family tour through the Alps. While we loved the Eiger Trail, it was the Northface
What to do on a Girls’ Weekend in Miami (even if you don’t go clubbing)
It was a surprise pick: to spend our Girls’ Weekend in Miami, Florida. We had so many other tabs open on our web browsers – the Bahamas, Aruba, Asheville. We
Top Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria
Spending time in Innsbruck, Austria was a last-minute addition to our travels, to be honest. We wanted to make our 16-day trip around the Alps with our kids a loop.
How to Spend a Day in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Coming to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, to Interlaken, Grindelwald, and the Alps was the driving force of our huge 16-day trip around the region with our kids. Mr. Family Trip had
Things to Do in Lugano, Switzerland (Where Switzerland Meets Italy)
When we originally planned our 16 day European family vacation, we were going to take a day trip to Lake Como. But, instead, we went to Lugano, Switzerland for a
Things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland (including a special recommendation you won’t see elsewhere!)
Lucerne, Switzerland was over a week into our 16-day tour around the Alps in Europe and when we wanted things to do, we wanted some rest. Every human has a
Hiking Monte San Salvatore in Lugano, Switzerland
When we rolled into Lugano, Switzerland, we didn’t even check in to our hotel: we went right to the spot where we’d start hiking Monte San Salvatore. We were on
Tips to Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
We made a special stop to visit Neuschwanstein Castle during our 16-day European adventure through the Alps. This place wasn’t exactly on the way but it wasn’t not on the
How to Spend One Day in Liechtenstein
On our big 16-day European adventure through the Alps, we had one day to spend in Liechtenstein. We wondered before we turned the car towards this country: is Liechtenstein worth
How to Spend Two Days in Milan, Italy (with kids!)
On our huge European adventure this past summer, we started with two days in Milan, Italy (with kids!). I love Italy. I lived in Tuscany for a summer, performing jazz
The Eiger Trail Hike in Switzerland – and more about hiking in the Jungfrau region
We spent 16 days in Europe, on our most amazing vacation, with four nights outside of Grindelwald and Interlaken Switzerland. We hiked as much as we could around the Jungfrau
Hiking Lisleibane Loop Under Carrauntoohil Peak in County Kerry Ireland
During our trip to Ireland and while we were staying near Killarney National Park, we knew we wanted to do a family hike. County Kerry is gorgeous and we were
Things We Learned Spending 10 Days in our Pop-up Camper (Road Warrior Itinerary and Plans: Camping Virginia to Niagara Falls)
About one year ago today, we were just returning from a 10 day camping trip in our pop-up camper, Shirley Jean. We camped and road-tripped from our home in Virginia
10 Ways to Use Fresh Blueberries
It is summer in the heart of Virginia. And with that comes fresh blueberries. Whether from the Farmers Market, from a local pick-your-own, or from your own backyard, there are
How to Spend a Weekend in Baltimore, MD, the “Comeback City”
When we had a chance to spend a weekend in Baltimore, MD, it was about a return. It was about seeing this “Comeback City” through the eyes of my adult,
How to Make Your Own Granola (A Recipe)
I love being in the kitchen. Luckily, homemade granola is easy to make (and delicious, too!). Using the granola recipe below, one batch can give my family a great breakfast all week.
How to Spend a Day in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
After our successful trip to Sayulita, Mexico, we found ourselves with a day in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico to explore. To be honest, we were in Puerto Vallarta for quite a
The Best Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico – a Fabulous Bohemian Beach Town
When we knew we were headed to the west coast of Mexico for an intergenerational spring break trip, I knew there were things to do in Sayulita, Mexico that I
5 Awesome Dessert Recipes (including an original chocolate cake)
As I’ve aged, I have come to appreciate baking much more. While I honestly don’t eat a lot of sweets, the creativity of baking is fun. There is also much
Top Things to Do in La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica- And What You Can Skip
When deciding what things to do in La Fortuna and the Arenal Volcano area in Costa Rica, I, of course, turned to travel blogs and articles. Personal recommendations and reading
15 Easter Basket Ideas for Teens & Tweens You Still Have Time to Get
As a follow-up to one of our most popular posts years ago, we’re sharing Easter basket ideas for teens and tweens you still have time to get. We are staring
Hiking Valley of Fire in Nevada – How To Spend One Day in This Park
During our (surprisingly amazing) trip to Vegas earlier this year, we had one day to spend in Valley of Fire State Park. This was, by far, my favorite day of
What to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica – Pura Vida Living!
I am not sure the world needs one more blog post on what to do in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. But here I am. Unafraid to share my own opinions
7 Things I Learned Wearing a Fitness Watch: Is it a Good Idea to Wear One?
For years, I was against wearing a fitness watch of any kind. I kept saying to anyone who would listen (and there weren’t many), “I don’t need a glorified pedometer!”
Best Things to Do in Stowe, VT in the Winter
“Everything here is just so cute,” my brother said. “I am sorry, but that’s just the best word for it.” And that is what a trip to Stowe feels like:
It’s Okay to Say No: A Book Review of “Hands Free Mama”
This post was originally published on another site, but I resharing it here as I think it is such a valuable conversation. Note: There are some affiliate links below. This
Best Things to do in Las Vegas That Aren’t Gambling
This is an article about taking a risk. It is an ode to the surprise that Vegas is. It is an invitation to create your own trip, wherever you go.
10 Things to Know About a Mud Run & Why They Are So Much Fun!
Somehow, I had committed to a mud run (Step Up For Soldiers). I am not really a runner. The first 5k I did was with my friend Sarah to get
Visiting Letchworth State Park in New York (“Grand Canyon of the East?”)
On our Road Warrior Trip (hauling our pop-up camper and making our way from Virginia up to Niagara Falls – and all the way back again!), we stopped at Letchworth State Park
What to Know About Visiting Costa Rica & How to Plan the Perfect Itinerary
It’s been pretty rare that I return to a country to vacation. With so many places to be discovered, I am always ready to explore the next place. But visiting
Is Massanutten or Wintergreen Better Virginia Skiing for Families?
It’s no secret that we love living in Charlottesville, Virginia. One thing we take advantage of? We are close to two different ski resorts. People often debate, too, which is
6 Things That Worked for Me Last Year
Inspired by Everyday Reading, I decided to get a little personal today and talk about what worked in 2023. Years ago, when I was a successful freelance writer, I learned
Best Books (I Read) in 2023
It’s my favorite time of the year: the annual round-up of the best books I read over the year! In 2023, I read over 60 books. I haven’t seen those
8 Things to Do in Chicago: How to Spend an Awesome Weekend in the Windy City
When I was lucky enough to head to a work conference solo (which I know how to rock), I wanted to also take my own advice and use the opportunity
How to Kayak a Glacier Lagoon in Iceland: A Top Iceland Experience!
It is impossible to understand, deep down, that the places we visit will never be the same again. As tourists, we take our snapshots and that’s how the place stays:
How to Have an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
This is a throwback post, which seems right as it celebrates a throwback party: The Ugly Christmas Sweater Party. Years ago, we had the honor of hosting a kid-friendly holiday
Are Kids “Worth” It? A Book Review on All Joy and No Fun
Many moons ago according to my Goodreads, I devoured the newly released book All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood by Jennifer Senior. While at the time, I didn’t
About Watkins Glen, New York (It’s GORGEous!)
Watkins Glen State Park is where things went off the rails for us on our Road Warrior Trip (quite literally). Pulling in after a long drive from Gettysburg National Battlefield,
Things to do in Steamboat Springs, CO in the Winter (& Tips to Ski Steamboat Springs)
My winter visit to Steamboat Springs, CO was filled with lots of phrases like “best outdoor activity yet,” “my favorite yet,” and “absolutely wonderful.” There are so many things to
Hiking on a Glacier in Iceland – Walking on Vatnajokull in Skaftafell
This is a hard post to write. Hiking on a glacier in Iceland, hiking on “Europe’s largest glacier,” was a remarkable and unforgettable experience for me. As far as the
10 Ways to Prepare NOW for the Holiday Season
It might seem a little crazy to start planning for Christmas now. But I know if I spend time doing things that help me prepare for the holiday season now,
10 Things to Know about Skiing Snowshoe Resort, West Virginia – and other fun family adventures!
I love to ski. I have been to Snowshoe Resort, West Virginia quite a few times, including with the kids. It has been the largest ski resort within driving distance
Visiting Gettysburg National Battlefield: All the Tips You Need Because it is BIG!
We’ve revealed that the ultimate destination of our Road Warrior Trip was Niagara Falls, but our first stop was the Gettysburg National Battlefield. This place is HUGE, so I thought
What to See & Things to Do in Niagara Falls (Go to the Canadian Side!)
Our Road Warrior Trip had one epic goal: to see Niagara Falls. Is Niagara Falls the tallest waterfall in the world? No. Is it the “biggest?” Also, no. But it
Tips for Visiting Hersheypark, PA (with a review of the Hersheypark campground!)
On our late-summer Road Warrior Trip, pulling Shirley Jean all the way from the Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia to the Canadian/NY border, our last stop was Hersheypark, PA. While
An Organized Art / Homework Station & 40+ Great Art Supplies and Kits for Kids
I don’t share much by way of home design, styling, or our renovations. I love unleashing my creativity on our home, but nothing ever feels finished. Additionally, most of the
Hiking Glymur Waterfall in Iceland: What to Know
“I am not going to be dramatic about this or make a big deal out of this, but this is as far as I want to go. You can continue
Classic Cocktail Hour: How to Make the Best Gin & Tonic
The gin & tonic drink is a summer classic, but there are some tips and tricks to making it the best ever. This drink, when made right, has all the
Things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland: The Best Tours, Things to See, and Places to Go!
We don’t really love big cities, Mr. Family Trip and I. We love seeing them, we love experiencing them, but after a few days, we’re usually ready to see land
A Perfect Night with an Oontz Beat: What We Miss As Parents
I wanted to roll in this night, live in it forever. The cooling saffron air, teasing my pallet with the first hint of fall, was lapping my newly styled hair
What to Know About Camping and Campervan Rentals in Iceland
We’re campers – we love camping, living outside, exploring nature. We bought a pop-up years ago and haven’t looked back. Yet camping in a different country was a totally new
An 8-Day Itinerary of Iceland: The Ultimate “Best of” Iceland
Iceland: the land of fire and ice. It is a place popular right now with tourists (particularly Americans) and for a lot of great reasons. What appealed to us? Low
Easy Ways to Love and Create More Peace in Your Life
This article was originally shared on a different site, but I still find the thoughts relevant to today’s world, so thought I’d take a moment to refresh it and share
The Best Travel Books to Read (Including Travel Book Classics and Newer Releases)
I read a lot – and by nature I read a lot of travel books. There are so many great travel books out there and many get overlooked. Below are
Yogaville in Virginia: All About it, The Bizarre History, and What a Retreat is Like Today
The Christmas before COVID, my parents gifted me a certificate to stay at Yogaville in Virginia. A large ashram located just an hour outside of Charlottesville, in Buckingham, the idea
101 Things To Do in Charlottesville, VA
We love living in Charlottesville, VA and raising our kids here! There are so many things to do. And while Charlottesville is small enough to feel comfortable and easy to
Visiting Congaree National Park: Which Parks are “Worth” it?
It’s not the most glamorous national park. While people fly across the country to visit Redwood and Arches, visiting Congaree National Park doesn’t have the same allure. The numbers tell
Why I Sleep with the Window Open (An Essay on Motherhood)
I get so tired of the whir of our nebulizer. I have spent countless hours, countless minutes, getting a secondhand inhalation of albuterol. Of course, the need to apply the
What to See & Do in Antigua Guatemala: A Quick Guide (with Lots of Pictures)
Antigua Guatemala was full of surprises, texture, warmth, and rest for Mr. Family Trip and me. This UNESCO world heritage city is small – with under 50,000 residents and the
Top 5 Things to do in Puerto Rico: The Easiest Caribbean Vacation You Haven’t Taken
I’ve been to Puerto Rico twice. But the first time I wore my Lollapalooza T-shirt the entire time and had my nose buried in my required Norton Anthology reading for
How to Start – and Keep – a Hobby
As busy parents, it is easy to allow the time we set aside for ourselves be the first thing to slip away. But time for ourselves can be the most
Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula? Here’s Why We Did the Dingle Peninsula Drive
When planning a trip to Ireland, there is one big question every visitor has to answer: the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula? These two beautiful circuit drives around
Visiting the Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, CO
When my siblings and I went to Colorado to ski Steamboat Springs, I knew part of my trip would involve soaking my ski-weary legs in a natural hot spring. Before
How to Spend a Day in Killarney, Ireland & Killarney National Park
If ever there was a town that bewitched us with its magical charm, Killarney would be it. After days of traveling to other spots in Ireland, including the big city,
My Favorite Go-To Cookbooks (The 5 Cookbooks You Should Own)
Cooking and meal preparation doesn’t have to be hard or complicated. I think that easy meals are lovely, I think meal planning helps a lot, and I also think that
Are the Florida Keys a Good Family Vacation Spot?
Ah, the Florida Keys, the legend of Buffet songs, and the promise of a lazy day. Sun and sand and clear waters tease our imagination when we think of the
How to (and why) Go on a Solo “Mini”Retreat
Quiet. That was all I wanted – literal quiet. When you are a mom, in a busy life with a busy home, there is much to be grateful for. But
The Famous Cliffs of Moher: Worth It?
Nature creates landscapes more stunning and beautiful than our imaginations could ever dream. If someone gave me playdough and said, “Make some landscapes that human beings would want to see,”
Visiting Biscayne National Park (Are Parks Now for the Elite?)
Florida has never really captured my heart, at least not compared to the way it seems to have a love affair with many other people. Maybe because we are “Non-Disney
Best Books I Read in 2022
I still have so many travel-related posts to write, but these book-related round-ups are some of my favorites, so here we are! The best books I read in 2022. Reading
Our Monthly Tips & Trips: December 2022
December always scares me with its demands and yet I also relish it. Days that are busy fly by and resolve into a quiet week of peace and restoration. The
An Honest Review of the Most Popular Planners
I love a good paper planner. I always have. While I will pop stuff on Google calendar so Mr. Family Trip and I can stay in sync, keeping my weekly
The Best Classic Christmas Cookies to Make
Everyone has a different approach to holiday baking. Some love to gather with others and do one big afternoon of baking multiple recipes together. In our house, we take a
Travels Around Ireland: How Clonmacnoise Hurt My Knee, Visiting the Burren & Heavenly Lahinch
I know firsthand how adventures and travel are always just a slip away from injury and trauma. It really shouldn’t surprise me anymore when a moment’s misstep waylays a plan
Our Monthly Tips & Trips: November 2022
This post was supposed to be easy to write – and written last week. But here we are. I find myself practicing more and more moments of grace in regard
20 Fun Stocking Stuffers for Kids & Tweens
I love Christmas, and in particular, Christmas stockings! In my mind, stocking stuffers are where we have fun. We get a little ridiculous and silly and really enjoy it. Sure,
Fun Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland for the Family
Dublin is a raw city, with a big history and a large underbelly chained to it forever. James Joyce writes with both nostalgia and darkness about this place, yet popular
Visiting Lake Atitlan in Guatemala – and What Expats “Owe” a Community
It was an eerie feeling: to be dropped off by a shuttle bus driver in the middle of a town we didn’t know the name of, not really functional in
Our Monthly Tips and Trips: September and October 2022
The joys of fall, quick weekend jaunts, the best things I bought and the book that surprised me.
What to do in New York City During Christmas – How to Experience all the Holiday Magic
New York City at Christmas – it captures our imaginations, makes us feel like anything is possible, and encourages us to lean into the magic. The bustling crowds, the parties
A 9-Day Family Itinerary Around Ireland (where to stay, what to see, and what to know about rental cars)
Ireland. The emerald island people dream about. In the U.S. we celebrate the culture: St. Patrick’s Day, leprechauns, Guinness, shepherd’s pie, sheep, rolling green hills, and tin flute music. We
Guide to Wineries (including the best and our favorites!) in Charlottesville, VA
We love living in the Charlottesville area. Between the fantastic hiking, the University and history, the nearby National Parks, the paddling, the hot air balloons, the access to so many
Super Easy Updates for Your Pop Up Camper
I love our pop up camper, Shirley Jean. But, truth be told, she was a bit outdated when we got her. Additionally, one of the previous owners had done some
Our Monthly Tips & Trips: July & August 2022
I like to pretend that I am in control of things – all the time – it is the great lie I tell myself. And it is a beautiful lie.
Best Places to Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP), or otherwise paddle, in Charlottesville, VA
A list, and reviews, of the best places to stand up paddleboard in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Antigua Guatemala
Don’t worry, our time in Antigua Guatemala wasn’t all backpack food and CLIF bars. Antigua Guatemala is a place brimming with locally owned cafes, outdoor patios trimmed with lights, and
Hiking Acatenango Volcano Guatemala: Everything You Need to Know
When the white mist hit my face at 7:00 am and my body’s chills shook me, tears eked out. This wasn’t what was promised, socked in with zero visibility and
Our Monthly Trips & Tips: June 2022
June was, as my kids would say, EPIC. It was chock full of all of my favorite things: momentous occasions with my children as they grow, adventure travel with Mr.
Things to do in Bedford, Virginia
All I wanted after college was a big city full of opportunity and creativity. I wanted hum. I wanted constant movement. I wanted to be faceless and nameless in a
A One Week Clean Eating Plan, Recipes & Shopping List
Every now and again, I will spend one week bringing awareness and conciousness to what I am putting in body, to what I am eating. I spend one week “clean
Things to do in Staunton, Virginia
We love living in Virginia. You may recall from our personal story that we lived at a beach in North Carolina for awhile, but Virginia speaks to our hearts in
Our Monthly Trips & Tips: May 2022
May’s been called December 2.0 – and it is fitting. It is a time of transition and change, of running to and fro to close things down yet also beginning
The Secret to Being the Sexiest One at the Pool
My friends and I who have kids frequently discuss how attractive our bodies used to be and how terrible swimsuit season makes us feel. We buy suits to cover up,
Questions to Ask Before Travelling Abroad
It’s happening! International travel is picking up again as so many put plans, dreams and trips on hiatus during a worldwide pandemic. I love Scott’s Cheap Flights predictions and they
The Case for NO Summer Bucket List This Year
The case for not having a summer bucket list and approaching summer as a family with love and openness.
A Really Great (seriously, a REALLY GREAT) Itinerary for the Family in Washington, D.C.
Taking the kids to Washington, D.C.: the heartbeat of our government, the scene of current events, and the pulse of our nation. It seems like a must-do at some point.
Our Monthly Trips & Tips: April 2022
As we reflect on our family trips and tips in April, it is a moment to recall how tender family life is. It is brittle, and on a scale that
A Weekend in Harpers Ferry (with kids)
Sneaking off to Harpers Ferry for a weekend in spring was highly anticipated and desperately needed. After slogging through spring sports, heavy work projects, rejuvenated social demands after a sleepy
How to Travel While Working a Full-Time Job
It’s hard to balance an extreme love of travel with a strong sense of responsibility or, even, just a desire for some stability. I feel it. I especially feel the
6 Tips to Make Packing Easy and Efficient
Let’s face it: packing for a trip takes time and care. It can also create stress. When you travel frequently, like we do, it’s nice not to have trip preparation
What to do for a Girls Weekend in New Orleans (off Bourbon Street!)
A guide for a girls’ weekend in New Orleans and what to do (off of Bourbon Street!).
Our Monthly Trips & Tips: March 2022
I am ready for spring, and warmer weather, a little relief, and some freedom to stretch out! Most parents I know are like us, in the middle of all the
Lagos, Portugal and Why Should You Go to the Portuguese Coast
When crafting our family’s itineraries for our travels, I struggle to find the balance between seeing the famous tourist spots and trying to capture the true essence of where we
What to do in Big Sky, MT – On & Off the Slopes!
We stayed up late into the night, exhausted and frustrated, but knowing a decision had to be made. As news of a big winter storm moving across the U.S. blared
Our Monthly Trips & Tips: February 2022
When I look back on February, the experiences are what are etched on my heart. (As usual.) I am sure we bought stuff, and I know I read a lot
What Happened When I Tried to Learn to Row & Thoughts on the Book “Beginners”
Last summer, bored and feeling as though the Enneagram 7 part of me was suffocating, I signed up for my own “summer camp.” My children were off to epic summer
Visiting the Endless Caverns in Virginia & the Utter Darkness
I knew it was coming. I had been on enough to cave tours to anticipate it. Yet it was still creepy. As the guide moved towards the light switch, I
Our Monthly Trips & Tips: January 2022
January was a long one, and it seemed most of the Internet felt that way. With snowstorms and ice blanketing our part of the world, we found that we were
What You Need to Know to (Successfully) Visit Peña Palace & Sintra
I had the suspicious feeling that our Tuk Tuk driver had just manipulated us into paying an exorbitant fee and was also silently laughing at our stress about making sure
Best Books (I Read) in 2021
I love books and I love talking about books and I love recommending books. So in line with tradition on this website, here are some thoughts looking back at my
What to do with Kids in Lisbon – and Why Portugal is Trending
We were so exhausted we were nearing delirium. Rain was pouring down heavily on us as we walked unfamiliar cobblestone streets. We didn’t know the customs, the language, or where
What to See and Do on Prince Edward Island (and why you should visit this Canadian island!)
When my mom and I visited Prince Edward Island on my (self-created) yoga retreat, I knew the island was special, but I didn’t realize just how wonderful it was. I
Going on a (self-created) Yoga Retreat on Prince Edward Island in Canada
Yoga is a passion and regular practice of mine for many reasons (I love it so much I sat for my 200-hour yoga certification) but, primarily, I feel it helps
How to Cook and Eat Healthy Meals (Without Working Too Hard!)
I am taking a break from our travels (but stay tuned because we still have a lot to share!) to answer some great questions I’ve received on how we eat
Skiing & Enjoying Winter with the Family in Canaan Valley
Last winter, looking for a ski trip that wasn’t as far as Vail, we ended up taking the family to Canaan Valley Ski Resort. Skiing and hiking in Canaan Valley
An Honest Guide to Visiting Appomattox Historic Site & Holliday Lake State Park
When life felt a bit too overwhelming and the Delta variant a bit too invasive, we did what works for us and we escaped to the woods. Pulling out our
What it Meant to Go Up in a Hot Air Balloon (& Other Thoughts on Redemption and Perseverance)
You may recall a deep-well of disappointment I fell into years ago. Gearing up for my 40th birthday, I had one goal. Yet the entire day was fraught with unmet
Staying in a C&O Canal Lockhouse
Sometimes, I don’t know how travel ideas become part of my daydreams. Sometimes, some trips, feel like they just pop up without warning then consume me until I book them.
Visiting the Redwood National Park: Why We Dream About This Place
The place where towering giants from dreams sway high up in the sky and ferns lifted from a prehistoric jungle fan out lushly at your feet… it’s the Redwoods National
What I Learned When I Donated My Hair & How You Can Do It, Too.
Years ago now, right before turning 40 (which was fraught, it turns out, with a lot of drama), I decided to donate my hair. I am not sure when the
A Romantic Weekend in Abingdon, VA
Mr. Family Trip and I recently celebrated 15 years of marriage. With two kids, four homes, two dogs, one cat, one hamster, two fish, and two states conquered together, we
How (& Why) To Host an Old-Fashioned Block Party
Pre-COVID, after uprooting our lives from our dream house near the beach to an older home in the mountains of the Blue Ridge, we decided we wanted to start off
Humboldt Redwoods State Park & The Avenue of the Giants: Where the REAL Ones Are
This was the day it happened: we left Route 1. I would pretend like we were sad or looked back, but Route 1 has a way of beating you down
Visiting Mendocino: The Place We Almost Didn’t Stop (That We Loved)
Our visit to Mendocino (said Mendo-SCENE-o, not Mendo-CH-ino) was happenstance and one made of necessity. We knew we needed somewhere to stop along California’s coast to break up the drive
Beyond the Comfort Zone: When to Decide NOT to Excel
If you follow us on Instagram, you might know that I love Stand Up Paddleboarding, or SUP. When we lived at the beach, I rented a paddleboard with a friend
Coyotes? Reveille? A Comprehensive Guide to Camping at First Landing State Park
When I booked our campsite at First Landing State Park, a park frequently listed as one of the most beautiful in Virginia, I had no idea that it would be
What to Buy at Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s is not the place where we do our regular grocery shopping, but having one nearby has been fantastic. Over the past few years, they have fueled our camping
Point Reyes National Seashore: Fun at the End of the World
There are so many beautiful things to do in California, especially on its rugged coast, that it was hard to decide where to spend our limited time. But after many
Beyond the Comfort Zone: Heading Back to a Dance Class
Always an overachiever, I decided to start this challenge with the scariest thing I could imagine: heading back to a dance class after nearly 7 years dance-less. One rainy night
Why You Need to See Muir Woods – & Then Keep Going
When we left San Francisco, as I mentioned, we were ready to get out of the urban and experience some nature. We were ready for the wild and untamed part
Tips for Visiting Colonial Williamsburg with Kids
We spend a lot of time in America, it seems, celebrating and memorializing the Revolutionary War. We memorialize our Founding Fathers and we pay a lot of money to see
Visiting San Francisco with Kids: Golden Gate Bridge & Where to Go
San Francisco is a city whose legend and reputation precede it. It is a place that has made America and revolutions. It is mixing bowl of progressive arts and astonishing
How to Repair, Restore and Care for a Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP)
This post is all about how to take care of your stand up paddleboard (or SUP). I know this article won’t be of interest to all of The Trip community.
How to Visit Alcatraz with Kids
Nature reclaims her own, time and again. She heals, restores and, eventually, makes whole that which is broken. It is why we go into the woods when we feel overwhelmed
Surprising Things You Need for the Campsite
You can find camping essentials lists all over the Internet (this one here is particularly great). We love those and highly recommend them. BUT, there are a few things we’ve
What We’ve Learned: To Take a Helping Hand
This post, written by Mrs. Family Trip, originally appeared on Recreation.gov. As my sweaty, salty face looked up at my husband’s, dangling at least 5 feet above me, offering me
Driving California Route 1: Our Family Travel Itinerary and FAQs
If you follow us on Instagram, you know that we recently completed a trip where we drove, with our kids, up California’s Route 1. We started in San Francisco and
Fun Family Activities in Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, NC
We love Wrightsville Beach and Wilmington, North Carolina – a lot. In fact, when we decided to take a risk and move to our dream location, this is the area
What to do in Southwest Florida and Fort Myers
I have been travelling to Fort Myers, Florida for many years now. My grandparents moved to a retirement community there when I was young. We spent time listening to my
The Truth About Plastic-Free Toiletries
When we visited Grand Cayman, one of the most distressing moments was picking plastic trash in heaps and mounds off an otherwise gorgeous deserted beach. Likewise, when we were in
Visiting Westmoreland State Park and George Washington’s Birthplace
Last summer, ready to take Shirley Jean to the beach (some moments I miss our beach life so much it makes me catch my breath), I booked a campsite for
How to Replace Pop Up Camper Curtains
When we bought our pop up camper (who we have named “Shirley Jean”), we really wanted one that was ready to roll (pun!). While we don’t mind a project generally
Why Vacations with the Kids Matter
Authored by Ms. Family Trip, this post originally appeared on Restless Art. It was an exotic vacation we had splurged on, and one we desperately needed. My husband and I