Save on a Trip to Paradise

From mid-September through mid-November you can score some of the cheapest airfare to Hawaii. What’s more, once you arrive in paradise, you can scoop up spectacular fall rates on hotels and rental cars as well. The Aloha State has something for everyone, from breathtaking beaches and active volcanoes to stunning waterfalls and dozens of award-winning golf courses. Hawaii is also home to some of the world’s best outdoor adventures, including year-round paragliding, windsurfing and snorkeling. Unlike most of the continental United States, Hawaii does not experience major temperature fluctuations in the fall. That means you can enjoy incredible weather and … Continue reading

Toddler Paradise

I recently started back to school full time again, well technically four credits over full time, my schedule is packed, I mean really packed. Lately our lives have revolved around getting up, going to daycare/school, and coming home to do homework, get ready for bed, and start all over again. Not much fun for a three year old, but all that is about to change. Logan is getting a little bored with the schedule, I don’t blame him, I am too, so tomorrow is all about him. We are going to create our own little toddler paradise. Try looking at … Continue reading

Faking It

When you are divorced not every day is a happy one. In fact, some days are just plain hard! Especially in the beginning, it can be difficult not to let your children see how much you are hurting, how much you just don’t want to get out of bed in the morning. They are likely going through their own set of emotions that they are trying to sort out. If they see you moping around it only gives them one more thing to worry about. You have to be so careful about how much you let them see. Sometimes you’re … Continue reading

“Cars” Shoes from $10 Including Shipping

Cars was the number one family-friendly movie of 2006. Did you get to see it yet? It’s fun for the whole family, with a great plot line, wonderful animation, and characters (cars) that we care about. If you haven’t seen it yet, read Carey’s review of it here. It’s definitely a don’t-miss, and you’ll likely want to buy a copy for your DVD library. Merchandising for this film was a no-brainer! There are so many possibilities. These shoes show some really cute ones. While some have the normal stick-on characters, others make the whole shoe into a car. I know … Continue reading

More Family-Friendly Spring Break Destinations

The tan from my Hawaiian winter holiday is still fresh so why am I blogging about spring break vacation destinations? Because I want to remain a shade darker than dirty snow? (Okay, that may be part of the reason.) Actually, the real reason we are researching family-friendly spring break destinations is because we had such a wonderful time with our latest multi-generational vacation we can’t wait to do it all over again in a new location. The following are more destinations that are on our list: Yellowstone National Park Before you roll your eyes and mutter: “cliché,” consider this: The … Continue reading

Five Reasons You Should Visit Chicago

When I moved to the Midwest from Hawaii nearly two decades ago I instantly fell in love with Chicago. It’s has that big city feel (though is immensely cleaner than New York), it’s located on beautiful Lake Michigan, the shopping is fabulous… and yes, the cultural diversity and world-class attractions don’t hurt either. If you have never made the trip to the Windy City I would highly recommend doing so. If the city is near and dear to your heart why not make a return trip this holiday season. When you do check out some of my favorite Chicagoland attractions … Continue reading

A Place For Your Kids To Play Between Flights

The countdown to our annual trip to Hawaii is on. In just a few weeks we will leave behind the freezing (yes, it’s already freezing) temps of the Midwest and jet off to paradise—at least for a little while. Last night I noticed our flight itinerary includes a 3-hour layover in Chicago. (Hmm… a 3-hour layover with a rambunctious 2-year-old.) I thought I’d better do some research on Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. Not that I haven’t spent the better part of my adult life navigating through the place, but I haven’t done so with a toddler in tow. I am so … Continue reading