Travel and Travails — Finding New Paths on the Road of Life

Maui Hiking: The Waihee Valley

The Waihee Valley trail in Maui is an unexpected and fun way to hike through the rain forest and to waterfalls, take a plunge into a pool and cross swinging bridges. Great for all ages, the hike was a highlight of our family vacation to Hawaii.

Big Island Snorkeling

The Kapoho Tide Pools on the Big Island of Hawaii are one of the best snorkeling locations in the Hawaiian Islands. The calm, crystal clear pools are formed by the lava rocks spilling into the ocean and are a spectacular setting for Big Island snorkeling and sunbathing. Combined with a visit to Volcanoes National Park, the Big Island makes for an excellent family beach vacation full of adventure.

Family Dynamics on the Road

Extended travel has its bumps as well as its benefits. Travails abound and family dynamics are not always easy when you spend so much time together, living and vacationing for extended amounts of time. How to manage work, life, travel and parenting when you take travel long term requires different strategies… or just more patience.

Panzanella Salad

Try something new for lunch today. Panzanella salad takes advantage of the summer tomatoes ripening on the vine and a day old baguette. Add a few vegetables, drizzle on the olive oil, and voilà!

Climbing El Montgó

Montgo mountain from house in Javea Spain

Climbing El Montgó, this impressive sheer mountain, in Javea, Spain made it on our Spanish bucket list. How could it not with “Monty” greeting me each morning out my kitchen window while I brewed my espresso. Don’t miss the amazing views.

Laughs in London

Queen's Guard in London and Laughing Children

The Queen’s guards in London are known for their serious faces that don’t move. My daughters discovered it was quite entertaining to try and make them laugh. Read on for their top five tips.

Sharing the Backyard

Try something new… like buying a house right behind your in-laws! Or… a new recipe or vacation spot. The point is… change can be good.

Octopus Out to Dry

These drying octopuses hanging on a clothesline was an unexpected discovery.

Being a Tourist

The music, smells and sights of the main square in Marrakesh, Morocco were overwhelming all of my senses. We had just left the shadows of the souks, the narrow lanes chock full of stalls serving the daily needs of the locals and tourists alike. I wondered what would overwhelm tourists to America?

Discovering Love in Barcelona

Gaudi's Rooftop Guards of La Pedrera in Barcelona

I found an old love in Barcelona. I stumbled upon him with my 7-year-old daughter. It was our Mommy Daughter Day, one of those days when my husband and I split up and each take a daughter to explore. She suggested we return to Le Pedrera and brave the line.