Hiking Steall Waterfall in Scotland: A Must-See Stop Between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye

If you're road-tripping through Scotland {which I highly recommend!}, there's a good chance your route will take you from Edinburgh toward the Isle of Skye. It's one of the most scenic drives in the country filled with lochs, glens, and highland peaks that look like they've been plucked from a storybook! Along the way, there's one stop you absolutely shouldn't miss and that's Steall Waterfall near Fort William.
Tucked deep in Glen Nevis, Steall Waterfall {sometimes called An Steall Ban, meaning "The White Spout" in Gaelic} is one of the most beautiful and accessible hikes in the Scottish Highlands. It combines everything travelers love about Scotland-the dramatic mountains, lush greenery, and a sense of untouched wilderness with a trail that's short enough for most visitors to enjoy.
Whether you're spending a few nights in Fort William or simply looking for the perfect stop between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye, here's everything you need to know about hiking Steall Waterfall.

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Where to See Highland Cows in Scotland: The Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Most Photogenic Residents

If you've spent any time scrolling through photos of Scotland, chances are you've seen them. Those shaggy, long-haired, golden brown beauties grazing against a backdrop of rolling green hills or misty lochs. Highland cows {or Heilan Coos as the locals lovingly call them} are one of Scotland's most iconic sights.
With their sweet personalities, long locks, and undeniable charm, spotting one in person is a highlight for many travelers. I'm not going to lie, I thought they'd be as plentiful as sheep are in Ireland, but alas, that's not the case. You really do have to do a little "hunting" for them, but if it's a priority for you to see them, this guide will help you get the chance to have an encounter with a coo!
Whether you're road tripping through the Highlands, exploring Edinburgh, or visiting a small farm cafe, there are plenty of places where you can see a Highland cow up close. You just have to work for it a bit. Below, I've rounded up some of the best spots to see Highland cows in Scotland, from farms and hotel grounds to organized tours, plus a few tips for making your visit unforgettable.

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Visiting the Cotswolds: The Villages Worth Visiting (and a Few to Skip)

The Cotswolds have been on my travel bucket list for as long as I can remember. I'm not sure how they ended up there, but anytime I'd see a photo of the area, I'd immediately clock it and would be like "of course that's the Cotswolds!" making a mental note to get there sooner rather than later. Rolling hills, honey-colored stone cottages, and charming villages, it all just felt like something out of a storybook. When we finally planned a trip, I knew I wanted more than just a day trip from London. We decided to spend three nights exploring the Cotswolds by renting a car, and I'm so glad that we did. It gave us the opportunity to explore and take it all in on our own timeline.
If you've been dreaming of an English countryside getaway, here's everything you need to know about visiting the Cotswolds, from renting a car to which villages are worth adding to your itinerary {and which ones you can probably skip!}. 

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What to Know About Driving in Scotland {Plus How it Compares to Driving in Ireland}

Last year, my husband and I rented a car for 15 days and drove around Ireland. We learned quickly how different driving on the "wrong" side of the car on the "wrong" side of the road felt! In case you missed it, you can read my post Renting a Car in Ireland: What You Need to Know. And by "we" I mean, my husband did the driving and I did the navigating! Driving can be both challenging and rewarding and honestly, having the flexibility to see and explore is well worth the challenges!
I'll share a bit more on things we learned while navigating those narrow lanes and twisting roads in the Scottish Highlands and some tips on how you can get the confidence you need to drive in the UK as well. I promise, it's worth it!

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New Hobby Unlocked: Finding Sea Pottery on the Beaches in the UK

I grew up landlocked in Indiana. I have lived on the west coast for more than 25 years, and I still can't get over how much I learn about the beaches and water that surrounds us. I started enjoying picking up sea glass, but a new hobby was unlocked on a trip to the UK when I was walking on a beach and found a piece of sea pottery! There was something magical about turning that piece over in my hand and revealing a small hand-painted design. While many people know about sea glass, those frosted shards of discarded bottles softened by time and tide, less people know about its cousin: sea pottery! On a recent trip to the UK, I spent time on the beaches in Scotland and discovered the rich history, and countless seaside towns make it one of the best places in the world to discover these small fragments of the past!
Hunting for sea pottery became a fun little way to slow down and notice those little details and it became one of my favorite parts of my trip to Scotland. If you've never heard of it, let's explore what sea pottery is, how it finds its way to the shore, how to identify different types, and the best places and tips for searching!

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The Ultimate Carry On Packing List for Fall in Scotland

Scotland in the fall is a dream. Crisp air, dramatic landscapes, cozy pubs, and fewer crowds {including those annoying midges!} than in the summer months make it an ideal time to visit. But fall weather in Scotland can be unpredictable. Heck, weather in Scotland anytime, can be unpredictable! You might experience sunny weather one minute, misty and rainy the next with chilly winds picking up across the Highlands. Packing for a trip like this might feel daunting, especially if you're trying to stick to carry-on only like I try to.
The good news? It's absolutely possible! With some planning and smart layering, you can be comfortable, stylish, and prepared without overpacking. I've put together the ultimate carry-on packing list for fall in Scotland, complete with tips for clothing, shoes, accessories, and travel essentials.

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How to Save Money on Popular Vacation Rentals (Without Sacrificing Location or Comfort!)

We planned not one, but two beach vacations this year on totally opposite coasts of the United States. I heard more than once from readers in my DM's that they'd been dreaming of going to those locations but they were finding them too expensive! If you are dreaming of the perfect family or couples getaway, the cost of accommodations at some of those popular locations can feel like a reality check. Heck, we even found that ourselves as I looked for rentals at both Kiawah Island, South Carolina and Seabrook, Washington. Both of these are resorts and master-planned vacation communities that often promote their rentals through official real estate management companies. While convenient, that booking route can also come with steep markups, resort fees, and hidden charges. 
The good news? There's another way. With just a little research and flexibility, you can often rent the exact same or similar properties for significantly less without giving up the prime location or amenities. The secret is renting privately or off the official real estate listing site. I've done it myself, and it can be the difference between being priced out of a location or enjoying it well within your budget. 
Here's how you can save money while still enjoying some of the most beautiful vacation communities in the United States!

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10-Day Vietnam Packing List in a Carry On!

If you've been dreaming about visiting the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, navigating through the beautiful limestone rocks in Ha Long Bay, or taking in the bustling energy of Hanoi's Old Quarter, you might already know that Vietnam is a feast for the senses and the weather can be just as dynamic! From humid days to sudden downpours, knowing how to pack smart can make your adventure so much easier.
I recently took a 10-day Vietnam trip traveling from South to North and I fit everything into one checked bag with room to spare for souvenirs. Here's how you can do the same without feeling like you're backpacking, or worse, overpacking!

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A Relaxing Escape to Coronado: A Local Staycation Meets a Parent's Visit to San Diego

Whether you're a local looking for a coastal staycation or a visitor coming to San Diego, Coronado offers that perfect blend of laid-back charm and upscale relaxation. Nestled just across the bay from downtown, this sun-soaked area is full of walkable streets, great food, gorgeous sunsets, and just the right amount of luxury.
One of the best ways to experience Coronado is by staying at Loews Coronado Bay Resort, a serene property tucked away on its own private peninsula. It offers everything you need to park your car and forget it while still being just minutes away from all the action in downtown Coronado! I recently visited my daughter who has lived in the San Diego area for the past year, and I got a few tips from her on things to do in the area and I'm passing them on to you! So take notes and get ready for an incredible trip!

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Saving for College: How a Young Couple on One Income Helped Their Three Kids Graduate Debt Free!

We became parents while we were still in college ourselves. Both of our parents had committed to paying for our college tuition and despite the little bump in the road with an unplanned pregnancy, continued to pay for our college so that we could graduate debt free. After graduation, we quickly saw how very beneficial it was for us to not be burdened with debt and we were able to start our life on a firm financial foundation. I chose to stay at home with our children {three of them all by the time I was 26!} and despite only having one income, we lived below our means, so that we could hopefully provide the same gift of higher learning for our own kids. This is a bit of the story on how we did that. We were able to turn financial limitations into financial freedom, not only for ourselves, but for our children as well. There wasn't any magic involved, just mindset, strategy, and steady action and sacrifice. I'm not sharing any magic formula, but instead, hoping you are inspired to plan intentionally not only for yourself but for the next generation.

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How to Visit and Explore Kiawah Island, South Carolina: A Complete Guide to South Carolina’s Coastal Gem

Tucked away just 25 miles southwest of Charleston, Kiawah Island is one of South Carolina's best-kept secrets. With ten miles of pristine beach, winding Spanish moss lined forests, and abundant wildlife, including beloved loggerhead sea turtles, this barrier island feels like a world away from the everyday bustle. 
In the early 90's a neighbor told my parents about Kiawah Island and we booked our first trip. We returned every year, enjoying the seclusion and the beauty of this hidden gem, even spending our honeymoon on the island! After nearly thirty years since our last visit, we found ourselves on the east coast, and I had a desire to see how Kiawah Island had changed through the years, and if it still remained a hidden gem.
I'm happy to report that it still very much has its coastal charm and I'm sad that I waited that long to return! If you're planning your first Kiawah getaway or you're simply craving a new kind of coastal vacation, here's your complete guide to visiting, exploring, and soaking up the best of this hidden paradise. From bike rides under Spanish moss to sunrise turtle patrols, Kiawah has something for everyone!

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What it Was Like Being Cast and Filming My First Commercial

When I think about some of the unexpected adventures my work has brought me, filming my very first commercial easily makes the top of the list. If you'd told me even a year ago that I'd be on set, sharing a "stage" with a famous actor, working with a director, learning phrases like "call time" and "craft services", I probably would have laughed. But I've learned time and time again, saying "yes" to new things has a way of opening doors you didn't even know were there.
I have gotten so many questions about my experience, so I thought I'd share what it was really like to be cast in and film my first commercial, from the casting process, to the filming, and even some of the unexpected after when the commercial was airing. I hope you'll come along on the ride!

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Paddling Through Paradise: A Multi-Day Kayak Adventure in the San Juan Islands with Outdoor Odysseys

Anytime I would mention that I had a multi-day kayaking trip through the San Juan Islands scheduled, people's eyes would light up. If I had a quarter every time someone said that that sounded like a dream, I'd be a rich girl! Here's the thing, the San Juan Islands is kind of a PNW hidden gem. Heck, it took me more than two decades of living here before I ever got up to the islands to experience them myself. Sometimes even the locals even forget about the magic of the islands.
You see, a kayaking adventure like this through the San Juan Islands isn't just a trip, it's a whole sensory immersion. From the moment your paddle dips into the San Juan Channel, the wind in your face, water lapping against the kayak hull, endless island vistas, and sightings of harbor seals and bald eagles, you know you've stepped into something extraordinary. Outdoor Odysseys elevates this experiences with expertly guided sea kayak tours giving you a taste of gourmet multi-course meals and overnight camping on islands like Stuart and Jones Island. It's honestly one of those things you have to experience for yourself! Here's why!

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Best Area to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina

If you're planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, you're probably dreaming of cobblestone streets, historic buildings, trees dripping with Spanish moss, and food that feels like a warm hug. Charleston is a city that knows how to charm, and after nearly thirty years since my last visit, I was ready to book a few day stay but wasn't quite sure where the best place to stay would be. I did a lot of research and after our two night stay, I'm here to say that I think I found the best location to base your Charleston adventures.
Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway, a little solo adventure, or a family trip filled with history and Lowcountry cuisine, this area is the best place to stay to make the most of your time in this picture-perfect Southern city.

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Travel Things I No Longer Do Now That I'm Older: Lessons From a Seasoned Traveler

There's something about getting older that brings a bit of beautiful clarity to how you travel. Maybe it's the years of travel mistakes, or heck, getting lucky while traveling and realizing you accidently did something right. I've made the mistake of overpacking and having to lug heavy overstuffed suitcases around and I've even regretted wearing the wrong shoes for a day full of sightseeing. I mean, trading being comfy for being cute is a real thing! But travel looks different now. I feel like I'm starting to know how to travel best for me, or maybe it's just traveling smarter.
I used to pride myself on squeezing in the most for the least: the cheapest flights, the tightest itineraries, the "just in case" outfits stuffed into checked luggage. But with age has come wisdom {and to be honest, a little more disposable income!}, and now I travel in ways that feel more sustainable, enjoyable, and aligned with how I want to experience the world.
Here are a few things I no longer do when I travel now that I'm older, and what I've chosen instead.

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Creating a Meaningful Slideshow for a Funeral or Memorial Service

I hate that I even have any expertise in this. It was truly the most horrendous task. But if you are like me, and you were tasked with creating a memorial slideshow for a funeral or memorial service, I hope I can offer a little comfort and let this be your guide. Creating a memorial slideshow can be one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the life of a loved one. Photos have the power to tell stories that words often cannot. And at a time when words may be hard to come by, they offer a great way to express the fullness of someone's life. Even a life that might have been gone too soon. 
After my younger brother suddenly passed away, I was set with the difficult task of creating a memorial slideshow. It was a task I dreaded. You'd think that after a 15-year long career in content creation, often making reels and videos with photos and snapshots of life, that this would have been second nature. I thought that too. It was not. And after quick google searches on how to make a memorial slideshow, I came up empty.
Here's the good news. You don't need to be a tech expert or hire a professional to create a beautiful slideshow. I want to walk you through the steps on how you can design a heartfelt tribute with ease because this shouldn't be something that needs to consume you when you are grieving.

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Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Trip to Vietnam

Vietnam is a vibrant, culturally rich country that's becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, history, amazing food, and natural beauty. Oh, and did I mention how affordable it is? From the bustling streets of Saigon to the incredible landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the history in Hue, Vietnam has something for everyone.
But before you hop on that plane and start planning your banh mi and pho tour, there are a few important things you need to know to make your first trip to Vietnam smooth, enjoyable and stress free!
Here's everything you need to know before traveling to Vietnam, including visa requirements, fast-track immigration tips, the best time to visit, and more!

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My First Small Group Tour Travel Experience: An Honest Review

Several months ago, I challenged myself to sell or resell items for one month as part of something I called Trash to Travel to create a travel budget from nothing. At the end of the month, the budget dictated where I would go. I didn't know when I started the challenge if I would be taking a staycation locally or if I'd be able to afford a bucket list trip. Well friends, I'll bury the lede and tell you that I did indeed create enough of a budget through reselling to fund a 10 day trip to Vietnam, a bucket list destination for me. At first, it felt like the travel possibilities were endless, but I took a lot of things into consideration. And as someone who has for years planned and created her own travel itineraries, I chose to join a small group travel company. 
Full disclosure, this is not sponsored at all. I receive NO kick back from the travel company, as far as I can tell they don't even have an affiliate program. The thoughts are 100% all mine and were not swayed at all by any compensation or any free incentives. I paid for the trip myself and have the receipts to prove it. 
Taking a small group tour turned out to be one of the most rewarding travel decision I've made. It provided the perfect balance of structure and flexibility, cultural immersion and comfort, and the trip exceeded my expectations in every way. 
When I booked this trip, I knew travelling solo would add an additional layer to my experience, and I'm so grateful that I was pleasantly surprised and think that I chose the right small group travel company for this trip. If you are like me and are a solo traveler looking to make friends, a couple wanting a guided experience, or someone craving authentic cultural connections without the logistical headaches, here's everything you might want to know about booking your own small group tour.

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How to Spend a Day in Puerto Rico on a Cruise Port Stop

Cruising is a great way to sample new destinations. You unpack once and wake up somewhere new each morning getting a small taste of what different places have to offer. One of my favorite port stops recently was in San Juan, Puerto Rico. If your cruise is docking in San Juan you are in for a treat! Here's how I would suggest spending a day in port.

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How I Scored a 10-Day Trip to Vietnam on a Budget (Hint: Flexibility is Key!)

My brain started spinning and I started thinking. Every day I get messages from people and I try to respond to all of them. One message slipped into my DM's after I shared a recent sale from the thrift shop. You see, I often thrift with one thing in mind...find one piece that I can flip that will cover all of my purchases. I often say I try to live frugally so that I can spend money on the things that matter to me. For me, what matters is travel! So why not combine both of those things and create a travel budget from nothing? And hence, the Trash to Travel Challenge was created! So many people tell me that they'd love to travel, but they don't have the extra money. Well friends, I feel like I showed you one way to overcome this issue! 
At the end of my challenge, where I traveled to was dependent on how much I made. You see, I would be ok with a staycation nearby, but in one month, I managed to make about $2500! I decided I'd see if I could maximize that travel budget and hit off one of those bucket list destinations. I wanted to show other people what was possible and honestly, I kind of surprised myself! But then after the trip was booked, I got a lot of questions about how I was able to get a trip "so cheap". Well friends, I'm going to tell you how I decided on my trip location {Vietnam} and how I was able to score a 10-day trip from the South to the North on what some people might feel like is a limited budget. 
Maybe you don't want to go to Vietnam, but you have another bucket list international destination in mind. This is how I managed to score a deal, and how you can too! 

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Parents Weekend Prep Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for a Parents Weekend Visit

You might be a seasoned college parent like we are or maybe you're brand new to this phase of parenting, regardless, attending your child's college Parents Weekend is a bit of a milestone event. It's a chance for you to get to step into your student's world, get a peek at their day-to-day life, and reassure both of you that everyone is adjusting. It's also a great time to remind your boys to wash their sheets and towels more often and for the girls to beg for some shopping time...you know, for bonding and stuff! You'll be reminded of how expensive kids are and while you'll roll your eyes at the total as you stock them up on supplies, you'll be grateful for that little squeeze and quiet thank you.
But keeping it totally real, sometimes planning a visit to your child's college campus isn't always simple. Especially if you are like us, and are visiting from out of state. You'll need to navigate hotel bookings and campus schedules and try to manage emotions {yours and theirs}, and there's a lot to think about and keep in mind. After going through this many many times and talking with other parents in the same boat, I've gathered my best tips to help you prepare for a smooth and memorable Parent's Weekend experience.

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An Aviation Journey: From High School to Commercial Pilot

"So what was your path to aviation?" I've embarrassingly {just ask my son!} asked to many a pilot while waiting for flights. If you are wearing a uniform in an airport, I have probably approached you. Mostly because, like all things in parenting, just when you think you have it all figured out, one of your kids throws you a curve ball! Our youngest son Owen has always loved airplanes and aviation. I think his love for flying escalated when his Boy Scout troop had a free discovery flight through the Young Eagles program with an eager pilot when he was nine. The pilot flew over our house and let Owen take the controls. If there's one thing I've learned about flying and aviation, it's that pilots LOVE to talk about airplanes! So asking that question, I often know I'll be able to engage in a pretty interesting conversation! Now as a mom of a pilot, I typically have several conversations weekly {no joke!} about the path to take to aviation and how as a parent you can support your child. This is mostly a way for me to write everything down in one place as we get further removed from the process in an attempt to share our experience. It won't all apply to you or your situation, but it's a good jumping off point. If there's one thing I've learned in the world aviation it's that every path is different! This has been ours...so far!

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How to Visit Giant's Causeway After Hours and Have it All to Yourself!

Popular tourist spots are popular for a reason. But can I make a confession? I hate crowds! There, I said it! I think that I unlocked the secret to visiting one of the most popular natural attractions in Northern Ireland, the Giant's Causeway, without all the crowds! For me, it makes my visit that much more enjoyable when I'm not fighting selfie sticks and groups trying to get that perfect Instagram shot. Want to know how you can get the Giant's Causeway virtually to yourself? Read on!

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Trash to Travel Challenge: What I Learned in a Month of Reselling to Create a Travel Budget From Nothing

I started this trash to travel challenge on a whim. Any time I post about reselling {often in my Instagram stories}, I always get questions about how I do it. A quick response to someone who dropped into my DM's, had my mind spinning, and the challenge was created. You see, when I started reselling items about 25 years ago, there weren't many platforms out there. You were often limited to reselling by having a garage sale, and while I love going to them, I don't always like having them! Things have changed so much, and nearly everyone has access to reselling their items for a profit, they just need that little push. As I've shared my experience during my trash to travel challenge, I have heard from many people that I have given them the push that they needed to start listing. After 31 days challenging myself to resell items and create a travel budget from nothing, I learned a few things too. Yes, even with decades of experience, I took away a few nuggets. Are you ready to see what they were?

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Should You Tip at an All Inclusive Resort?

When booking an all-inclusive resort vacation, one of the biggest perks is the promise that everything-from meals and drinks to activities and entertainment-is included in the upfront price. This often extends to tipping, with many resorts advertising that gratuities are covered. I've stayed at dozens of all-inclusive resorts and I've noticed that the tipping culture is changing. This might leave travelers wondering: should you tip at an all-inclusive resort, even when it's supposedly included?
Let's dive into the pros and cons of tipping to see if you can decide what feels right for you!

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N Concourse Seattle Tacoma Airport: Where to Eat and What to Do During a Layover or Before a Flight

I spend a LOT of time at the Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Like a lot of time! Not only do we have three kids who live out of state, we also enjoy traveling. It's not uncommon for me to be at the SeaTac airport {or as it rebranded itself a few years ago SEA}, several times a week. We all love our local Alaska Airlines and the ease of so many direct flights to most of the places that we want to go.  If you are flying in or out of Seattle on Alaska Airlines, you might just find yourself in the N concourse. The N concourse at SEA just completed their final phase and if you’ve got some time before a flight, or heck, if you want to get a local taste after you arrive, here are some of my favorite shops, dining and entertainment in the N concourse. You might want to get to the airport early to enjoy all of them!

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Doha Layover Guide to Getting Rest

When a couple travels together, you might have different travel styles. I'm less, how do I say this, precious, and my husband has a bit more dignity. I would happily save money during a long layover and stretch out on the airport floor using my backpack as a pillow, but he would much rather stick to his normal regularly scheduled programming with a warm bed and private room. We found ourselves with a long layover in Doha, Qatar, a major hub for international travel on both ends of our trip to Africa during the evening hours, not ideal for exploring the city. We {read he} was looking for a place to rest, and we tried two of the best options within the airport-the Oryx Airport Hotel and Sleep n' Fly pods. Here's a  little comparison of both as well as some other ideas for spending your layover in Doha.

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A Couple's Review of Secrets Playa Mujeres Resort in Cancun, Mexico

I love a good resort vacation and I love traveling the world. But the one vacation that actually feels like a vacation to us is a trip to an all-inclusive resort. We started sneaking away as a couple when the kids were much smaller for a few days here and there. We even brought our kids to a few all inclusive resorts where they quickly became a favorite for our family. Unlimited drinks, food and a beautiful beach, what more could you ask for? We realized it had been about five years since the last time we went to an all inclusive resort {thank you global pandemic}, and my husband was insistent that we stay at the Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. Because I can be happy at a Motel 6 or hanging in a hammock on the beach, my husband's standards and desires typically come into play in our resort selection. Just because my standards are different, doesn't mean that I don't have opinions! As someone who has stayed at more than a dozen all inclusive resorts in more than five countries, this is the review you are going to want to read before you book!

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Trash to Travel Challenge! Turn Clutter into Cash for Your Next Adventure!

A simple conversation in my dm's about reselling a few weeks ago had my mind racing with a new challenge. I have been reselling items for more than 25 years. I often resell to sustain my thrifting habit, but it also generally covers the majority of my clothing and home decor budget. Let me explain, I usually plan to buy one item when I'm thrifting that I plan on reselling with the intent that the profit I make by reselling that item, will pay for my thrift trip. Any of the other items I buy basically cost me nothing. But what if I could commit to reselling for 30 days and any of the money I make during that time would go towards travel? Travel is something we prioritize in our budget, but I know that not everyone does. And people often wonder how they can travel more. What if the answer to traveling more was sitting in your closets?
A few years ago I did a very successful challenge I called Money Making March. My goal was to help show others how they could put $500 back in their pockets in just one month by reselling items they had. But what if we take this challenge one step further. The goal? To resell items you no longer need and make enough money to travel anywhere in the world. Where will you go? That all depends on how much money you make!

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The Perfect Weekend in Pasadena, California

I was recently cast in my very first commercial and naturally it was filming in Los Angeles. I say this like this is some every day occurrence, but friends, it is not. But it did take me to LA for a mini trip and I was left with more time on my hands to explore than I was anticipating. And explore I did! When people think of LA they often think of Hollywood, Santa Monica, or maybe even Disneyland. But I found that Pasadena is a destination in its own right. With its charming Old Pasadena district, world-class dining, cultural attractions and basic proximity to all the major LA hot spots, Pasadena makes a great home base for your Southern California adventures! I've got some tips to make the most of your visit.

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What It's Really Like After the Kids Leave Home: Reflections of an Empty Nester

Transitioning to an empty nest is a huge milestone in a parent's life. It kind of feels like this goal you've been working towards from the minute you started the clock on parenting. As young parents who didn't have a lot of time to experience adulthood without kids, it was something we were very much looking forward to as the next milestone in our own relationship. One of the biggest questions we get from those people who aren't far behind us, or who may be really far behind us and in the trenches of parenthood is, "what is your life like now, or how has your life changed since you became empty nesters?" Here are a few of the things I've noticed from personal experience in the past few years.

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Thinking Outside the Box to Save Money Abroad: Using Tesco Clubcards

Sometimes I stumble backwards into a new way to save money. If you're a savvy traveler like me, who knows that every penny you save is more money you can spend on more travel or experiences, then this tip is for you! It feels like one of my more genius ah ha moments that I learned while traveling abroad, and I'm happy to get to share it with you!

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Save Money on Airfare! Step by Step Guide to Getting a Fare Adjustment

Booking airfare can be one of the most stressful parts of travel planning. Especially because it's often one of the most expensive parts of trip planning. There's always that nagging thought of "what if the price drops after I buy my ticket?" Thankfully, there have been some changes in recent years {thank you global pandemic for SOMETHING}, and you just might be able to get a fare adjustment for airline tickets you've already purchased. I'm going to walk you through step by step what I do so that you can set up price alerts easily and point out which airlines make the process the easiest!

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My Favorite Historical Fiction Books I Always Recommend to Friends

I love a good historical fiction book. It seems to be the genre that I keep going back to time and time again. Maybe it's because I didn't pay enough attention in history class so I literally am shocked most of the time at how things play out. Or maybe it's because those books transport me to a time that allows me to step out of my reality for a bit. I'm an avid reader, finishing one book a week, and through the years I've come across some really great historical fiction books that I always recommend to friends. If I hear you've read a book that's historically based, girl, you better believe I'll be recommending one of these to you until I find one that you haven't read! So buckle up and take notes, you aren't going to want to miss this list!

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What Really Helped After Losing a Loved One: Practical Tips for Support During Grief

There is  no way to fully prepare for the loss of someone that you love. When my 42-year-old brother died suddenly after a very brief illness, I found myself thrown into a new and heartbreaking reality. People often say, "Let me know what I can do," but the truth is, when you're grieving, you don't know what you need. Decision overload becomes all too real. During that first week, I did notice that there were some practical tangible and thoughtful gestures that made my family feel seen and loved by those around us and that made all the difference. If you've never experienced loss before, these things might help you relate to someone you love that's walking through it.

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How to Make the Most of Stopovers: Turn Layovers into Mini Vacations

Turning layovers into mini-vacations is a smart way to make the most of your travel experiences without incurring additional airfare costs. Many airlines offer free stopover programs, allowing travelers to explore an extra destination en route to their final stop. When I discovered this little trick, I thought it was so genius! I haven't stopped telling people about it and I highly encourage it so that you can make the most of your travel. You're already doing the travel, why not add in the option of exploring another country?!

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What To Do If You Hate the Book You Are Reading

We've all been there. You've picked up a book with high hopes--it's the latest bestseller, a beloved classic or a friend's passionate recommendation. Yet, as you flip through the pages, you feel a sinking realization: you hate it. Maybe the characters are shallow, the plot drags, or the writing style doesn't resonate. Instead of powering through in misery, it's time to take a step back and reassess. Here's how to handle this situation and make your reading journey more enjoyable.

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