Gulf Shores Family Vacation Photo Overload

One look at the ocean, and the thirteen hours of driving in a minivan of six fades. All of the memories and fun that followed are just bonus material.  We spent a week in Gulf Shores, Alabama, with Brad’s family last week, and it was unforgettable.  We spent most days the same as the first: …

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5 Ways to Let Summer Linger

The more summer threatens to leave us, the tighter I want to grasp it. Why are we Americans always in such a rush to jump to the next season, without soaking up the very one we are in?  Not sure about you, but there is nothing “merry and bright” about seeing Christmas displays in the craft …

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WANTED: Amusement Park Survival Tips

                                                           {Map via Cedar Point} Unexpectedly, we are planning a last minute trip to Cedar Point {The Roller Coaster Capital of the World} soon! Although we are thrilled with the opportunity to take in the rides and attractions with our family, we feel a tad unprepared. Like what do I need to have in my …

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Chicago in The Summer

I left you hangin’ a couple of weeks ago, on where we went on our short (but maximized) family getaway. We headed just a few hours from here to Chicago for a nice change of pace and scenery. Our little dudes were such trooper tourists this trip! They carried their own backpacks  all over the …

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How to Maximize Short Family Getaways

As much as we all love vacation time, sometimes a full blown family vacation isn’t feasible. Obstacles get in the way – finances, work schedules, kids’ school schedules, etc. With Brad and I both being self-employed, we no longer have the luxury of paid vacation days (although I think the trade off is well worth …

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Back from the Jungle and Into Reality

We’re back from The Opryland Hotel or “The Jungle” as the boys affectionately referred to it.  It was a busy, yet refreshing time away – an opportunity to be free of routine, be in new surroundings, and even being stretched from our comfort zone. My boys spent some time both at the hotel in Nashville …

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Remembering the Magic: Our Top 10 Favorite Attractions at Magic Kingdom

Since our Butler Bulldogs fairytale story ended one game short of a national title, I decided to drown my misery in remembering the magic from our recent trip to Walt Disney World. (Still extremely proud to be a Bulldog! What an awesome tournament run!) We had a truly special time as a family on vacation …

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One of THE BEST Days of My Life…

I’ve been dreaming of taking the boys to the ocean since they were babies. I couldn’t wait to see their toes get tickled by the ocean waves and dig in the “King of all Sandboxes”.  My dreams did not disappoint. It was delightful.  My eyes filled with tears just watching their joy as they chased …

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