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Love Letter to My Tween
Every year, I write a love letter to my daughter on their birthday because one day, I hope that she’ll read them and get to know me in a different way. The whole purpose of this blog was to write down not only their milestones but my journey through motherhood. One day when she’s a mother, I hope she might like to read them to get to know us both from a different perspective.
Bella,
I loved you from the moment you were a blip on the ultrasound screen. Actually, I loved you before that. I loved you when you were a + sign on a pregnancy stick. I loved you before I even knew how much I could love you.
My heart filled with with so much love and happiness that I was actually dumbstruck for a moment. I couldn’t believe that this was happening to me. That I was going to get to be your mom. I was terrified, I think that’s normal. I was terrified that I was going to let you down.
Then, I watched you being born and held you in my arms and I knew. I knew that I would spend my whole life committed to loving you unconditionally and being the best mom I could be to you. I realize that is defined differently by everybody but for me, it simply meant raising you to know that you were wanted and loved and to be the best kind of human you could be. I wanted you to be happy.

The moment you were born and they lay you on my chest, all warm and gooey, my heart exploded. I was overcome with so much love and happiness that I was simultaneously laughing and crying. I want you to feel that same overwhelming love for your entire life and I promised myself that you would.
Now, you are 12-years-old and we are entering that part of adolescence where you are beginning to feel a little unsure of your place in the world; caught someplace between a child and a teen. Your body is changing and the hormones are making you feel unsure of a lot of things but I hope the one thing that you never doubt is my love for you, it is as strong and as fierce as the day you were born. It never wanes.
I can’t believe that I’ve been a mother for a dozen years. It seems like just yesterday that I was holding you in my arms and staring at you in awe. I couldn’t believe that we made you; our miracle. Now, you are almost as tall as I am. Soon, you will be taller than I am but to me, you will always be that tiny, newborn on my chest. That moment forever imprinted on my soul.
I wanted to tell you 12 things about you this year so one day, you can look back and know these things.
1.6th grade is a crazy transition year and, with the exception of Nutcracker season, you have handled it all with grace, dignity and just a little bit of crying, which is to be expected. I am proud of you. All those A’s, Harvard here we come.

2. Dancing and Singing. You always dance and sing like no one’s watching. You love the theater and everything about it. You joined the Youth Company at ballet. Your dad wanted dedication and I’d say committing to something 5-days a week plus rehearsals and performances has shown us a level of dedication that humbles us. You go girl. I still can’t believe that you’ve been dancing for 10 years. I still remember buying you your first ballet slippers.

3.Your smile. They say the eyes are the gateway to the soul but I can look at your mouth and know everything about you. I know your real laugh, when you think nobody is watching and you are 100% pure happy. I know your smiles; the fake one that tells me to take the picture already, your big one that goes all the way up to your eyes when you are excited like when traveling or chocolate are involved, your pursed lip smile when you want to throw your little sister or anyone for that matter out of the window for doing/saying something stupid and, my favorite, the quivering, tiny smile you get whenever you try to lie to me. You’ve had this tell since you were a toddler and I hate to break it to you, you always will. I can read your face like a book; my favorite book in the world.
4.Friendship. The way you’ve begun to handle your friendships and controversy. Can I just say that I am so proud of the way you rise above gossip? I love that you have your expectations and you stick to them. You are direct and you don’t let toxic people take up space in your life. I hope that never changes. By the same token, I love the way you love your friends like family. You are a good friend. You once told me when you were 4, that to have a good friend you need to be a good friend and I think you are succeeding at both.
5.Disney, I love the way you still love all the things Disney now just as much as you did when you were a preschooler. Every trip to Disney World with you and your sister is a memory that I’ll cherish forever. And, yes, I will have a Disney princess marathons snuggled up on the sofa together with you any day of the week for as long as you ask. Beauty and the Beast on Thursday!
6.Changes, wow, I know you have gone through a lot of not only mental but physical changes this year. It’s rough being this age because everything seems to be changing at warp speed but we’ve been open and honest and I always will be. I’ve got you. As I always say, everything is a teachable moment and you can talk to me about everything no judgement. Hey and the sex talk ambush on the way to school the day before your birthday wasn’t that bad, was it?
7. Standing up for what’s right. This year, I watched you (and your little sister) become activists. You are no longer bystanders in the world, you have opinions and beliefs and you are willing to vocalize them. You are willing to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s not popular. Thanks for standing in line at the polls with me this year. Never forget, women can do anything.
8. Little kids. You are always super sweet to your little cousins. You have always been a nurturing soul. You are very patient and you look at life with a childlike wonder that allows you to relate to children and animals with a tender and kind heart.
9.Wanderlust. I’ve seen the fire ignite within you. My love of travel and yearning to embrace new cultures and people has rubbed off on you. I love the way you thirst for new experiences and new places. You even volunteered to forgo Christmas for travel. That’s my girl.
10. Self-confidence. You exude self-confidence and nothing could make me happier. I love the way you love your body. You still run around the house in your skivvies. There is no shame or second guessing, there is only loving the skin you are in. I pray that never ends. You live life in a big way. You are bold, you are fierce and you are beautiful in every way. You are kind, giving, smart and funny. You love to laugh but never at another’s expense (well, unless it’s me and the way I say cabinet.)
11. Just like Mommy. Maybe you wouldn’t want this to get out but really, I don’t think you care. I love that you ask me what I’m wearing before we go out and you try to coordinate. At an age when I was expecting to be the person you most wanted to not be like, you seemed to have clung to me for whatever reason. I don’t know why and I don’t question it because, silently, I love it. It makes me feel like you like me (the person) not because you have to but because you choose to. That means everything to me. Thank you for not shutting me out.
12. The unencumbered way that you go through life. Ever since you were a wee little one you have always done what you have wanted. You don’t see limitations. You see challenges and you just go for it because there’s never been a doubt that you can accomplish anything you put your heart to. Never forget that.
These are 12 things about you that I love. There are so many more; too many to list. Happiest of birthdays to my Bellabini! You made me a mommy and I will love you forever.
XOXO
Mommy
2017/03/10
Best Things to Do in Boston with Teens and Tweens
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Boston is one of our favorite cities to travel to as a family. We fell in love with it on our first trip when the girls were just preschoolers and we’ve found new things to do and places to check out on every subsequent visit. It’s one of those places that you can go back to 100 times and still find new and exciting adventures to be had. Virginia might be for lovers but Boston is for families and the proof is in my best things to do in Boston with teens and tweens list that I’ve compiled.
We’ve done the typical things like go whale watching, visit the children’s museum and walk the Freedom Trail. We’ve visited Harvard and explored every inch of the commons. As the girls grow older, from toddlers to teens, what they want t do and what interests them changes. Lucky for us, Boston is a city with endless options.
READ ALSO: Things to Do in Boston When Traveling with Children
One of my favorite things about Boston, and I’ve said this many times, part of what makes it such an amazing family destination is that the people of Boston are so kind and welcoming to their city. Every time we’ve been, it never fails, if I need to stop and ask someone for directions or for a recommendation of places to eat or things to do, without fail they stop and answer my questions. This plays a big part in why I feel safe in Boston and return every year.
If you’re looking for a city to visit that offers something for all ages where you and your family can explore, Boston may be for you.
Best Things to Do in Boston with Teens and Tweens
Shopping
Primark
Shopping on Newbury Street
Newbury street is more than just a shopping center, it’s a cultural epicenter with all varieties of food and .
Anthropologie
Intermix
Remember to pack a duffle bag because if you are with teen girls, there will be plenty of shopping done and you’ll need the extra space.

Eating
Pret a Manger
We only discovered this gem last year when I was sick and we needed something quick. Pret a Manger is literally, ready to eat. My girls are obsessed with grilled ham and cheese.
Cheers Boston
This is one of our favorite places to go with the girls. They love getting Shirley temples and Boston Creme pie and the Big Guy and I love the casual atmosphere and pub food.
Georgetown Cupcake
Most delicious cupcakes ever with a fantastic flavor variety.
Eating in Chinatown
Any place you try, it will be good.
The Q
Come for the hot pots and stay for the sushi.
The Gourmet China House
The Gourmet China House is a quaint, unassuming restaurant that serves up some of the tastiest Chinese food I’ve ever eaten.
Stoddards
Gastropub serving vintage cocktails & craft beer in a historical building & former corset shop
New York Pizza
It’s a little bit of New York in Boston. If NYC style is your favorite pizza, you’ll love it.
Legal Sea Foods
Places to Stay
Westin Boston Waterfront
The Westin has the most comfortable beds and attentive staff. If you are in town for a conference, the Westin is attached to the conference center. It’s also within walking distance to downtown.
Hyatt Regency Boston
The Hyatt is a modern, clean hotel located in the theater district within walking distance to the Commons, Chinatown and Newbury Street. Also, the customer service at the Hyatt is wonderful.
Boston Park Plaza
Entertainment
The Swing Park at the Signature
This is such a fun thing to do for people of every age. We spent hours there from sunset until it was dark out swinging on those glowing swings.
Faneuil Hall
Exploring Boylston neighborhoods around the Public Garden Park
Catch a show at the Paramount Center
The Swan Boats at the Commons
Visit Harvard University and Cambridge
If you’ve never been, you have to go. It’s a beautiful campus with so much to see. Plus, it’s never too early to introduce your kids to the possibility of Harvard.
READ ALSO: Ogunquit Maine the Perfect Beach Getaway
These are just a few of the many places to go and best things to do in Boston with teens and tweens but there are several more. We’re going back this June and I’ll have even more things to do and places to go then.
What’s your favorite city to visit with your family and why?
2019/02/13
Teen Takeover! Planning a Trip Your Teens Won’t Whine About
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Hey Mamas (and Papas!), remember those pre-teen years when vacations meant building sandcastles and begging for ice cream? Those glorious spring breaks where everyone went with the flow? Sure, you had to carry an ass ton of extras to keep them entertained but in the end, it was absolutely worth it. Yeah, those days are officially over. Now, we’re facing a new foe: the dreaded planning a trip your teens won’t whine about and you might actually enjoy. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE traveling with my teens (it’s my favorite thing to do) but life would be easier without the “cool, bruh.”
The mere mention of a family trip can be met with eye rolls, dramatic sighs, and monosyllabic responses. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It happens to the best of us. My girls even refer to me as “cool” on occasion and I get all the eye rolls. Planning a trip that appeals to both your inner wanderlust and your teen’s ever-evolving interests can feel like navigating a minefield. But fear not, fellow travelers! This mama is here to equip you with secret weapons to conquer the Teen Travel Whine and plan a trip EVERYONE will love. Yes, even that youngest, most entitled and champion “cool, bruh” one.
Embrace the Collaboration (Without Losing Control)
First things first, ditch the “Surprise! We’re going to Disney!” tactic. Just kidding. Maybe for typical teens but my girls are die-hard Disney teens. We go every year and every year it’s.the.best.time.ever! Teens crave a sense of ownership, so ditch the dictator routine and turn trip planning into a collaborative mission. Dust off that dusty world map (or whip out your phone) and gather your little squad. Get their travel vibes flowing by browsing travel blogs, Instagram accounts, and travel magazines together.
Pro Tip: Let them dream big! Even if a trip to the Maldives is out of budget, exploring their wildest travel desires can spark inspiration for more realistic options.
Location, Location, Location:
Now, the fun part! Once you have a general idea of what kind of trip your teen is digging (beach bumming, city exploration, adventure junkie, etc.), start brainstorming destinations that cater to both your interests. Here are some Teen-Approved Hotspots:
- Adventure Awaits! For the thrill-seekers, consider national parks like Yosemite or Yellowstone, where hiking, camping, and white-water rafting will have them screaming with excitement (in a good way!). If international travel is on the agenda, Costa Rica offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Ziplining through rainforests, horseback riding on volcanic beaches, and learning to surf – enough adrenaline to keep those teenage spirits soaring.
- City Slickers Unite! Let your teen unleash their inner urban explorer in a vibrant city like New Orleans, overflowing with live music, historic sites, and mouthwatering food (beignets, anyone?). London, with its iconic landmarks, museums galore, and a thriving theater scene, is another fantastic option. Explore hidden alleyways, catch a West End show, and maybe even take a day trip to explore the magic of Harry Potter Studios.
- Beach Bums Welcome! Who doesn’t love a relaxing beach getaway? But ditch the all-inclusive resorts and opt for a location with some personality. Tulum, Mexico, offers stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins to explore, and a bohemian vibe your teen will love. The Outer Banks in North Carolina boasts beautiful beaches, charming towns, and even wild horses to keep everyone entertained.
Activities: It’s All About the Experiences
Okay, you’ve nailed the destination. Now, let’s make sure there’s enough action to keep everyone from getting bored (especially those with short attention spans cough teenagers cough).
Pro Tip: Remember, vacations are about creating lasting memories, so prioritize experiences over souvenirs.
Here are some ideas to keep your teens engaged:
- Food Tours: Turn mealtimes into mini-adventures with a food tour that explores the local cuisine. From chowing down on tacos in Mexico City to sampling dim sum in Hong Kong, these tours offer a delicious way to experience a new culture.
- Get Creative: Does your teen have an artistic soul? Seek out workshops or classes that allow them to learn a new skill like pottery making, glass blowing, or graffiti art. This is a fantastic way to create a unique souvenir and a fun memory.
- Volunteer for a Cause: Looking for a way to give back on your trip? Look into volunteer opportunities with local organizations. This could be anything from helping to build a school in a developing country to working at an animal shelter. Not only is it a rewarding experience, but it allows your teen to connect with the local community on a deeper level.
Don’t Forget the “Me Time” Factor
Remember, a vacation is supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable for EVERYONE, including yourself!
Pro Tip: Factor in “me-time” for everyone. Let your teens explore their own interests for a few hours, whether it’s browsing vintage shops or catching a movie. You can head to a museum, get a massage, or simply relax on a beach lounger with a good book.
This isn’t about abandoning your teens on a deserted island (tempting as it may sound sometimes!), but rather creating opportunities for everyone to recharge and pursue their individual interests.
Here are some ideas to create that “me-time” magic:
- Teen Time: Negotiate a few hours where your teens can explore the city (or beach, or wherever you are) on their own. This could involve browsing vintage shops, catching a local band’s gig, or simply hanging out with friends they may have made on the trip.
- Adult Adventures: Schedule an activity just for you! Whether it’s a solo museum visit, a relaxing spa treatment, or enjoying a quiet coffee at a local cafe, this dedicated “me-time” allows you to unwind and recharge.
Embrace the Unexpected
Travel is all about creating memories, and sometimes the best ones are the ones you don’t plan. Leave some room for spontaneity on your trip!
Here are some ways to embrace the unexpected:
- Get Lost (Safely): Instead of sticking rigidly to your itinerary, allow some time to wander and explore. You might stumble upon a hidden gem of a restaurant, a charming local market, or a quirky street performance – these unexpected finds can become the highlights of your trip.
- Be Open to New Experiences: Don’t shy away from trying something new, even if it’s outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying a local dish you can’t pronounce, taking a salsa dancing lesson, or going on a spontaneous hike, embracing new experiences can create lasting memories and stories to tell for years to come.
- Go with the Flow: Things don’t always go according to plan, especially when traveling. Flights might get delayed, museums might be closed, or the weather might not cooperate. Instead of getting stressed, take a deep breath and roll with the punches. These unexpected hiccups can actually lead to some hilarious stories down the road.
- The Loss Of Items: It can be tough if you lose things when you’re on your trip. Nobody likes it but it happens nonetheless. Instead of getting stressed out and panicked about it, remember that there’s always a solution. Where there’s a will, there is always a way. If you lose your phone, look for it, track it, see where it is. If you’re like me ( ADHD brain) backtrack and you will find it, even if it take a while. If you lose your travel money card, see if someone back home can do a money transfer to Mexico or wherever you are until you get back. There are always solutions, try not to panic.
**Remember, Mamas (and Papas, too), a successful family vacation isn’t about achieving Instagram-perfect moments. It’s about creating shared experiences, fostering connection, and making memories that will last a lifetime. So ditch the stress, embrace the chaos, and get ready to have the best family vacation ever!
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to document your adventures! Encourage your teens to take photos, capture videos, and jot down their thoughts in a travel journal. These little mementos will be precious treasures you can all look back on and reminisce about long after the tan lines fade.
Now, go forth and plan that epic trip your whole family (even the teens!) will be raving about!**
2024/03/05
How the Barbie Movie Taught Me that I am “Never Going Back in the Box” Barbie

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
I’m a Barbie girl in a patriarchal world, life’s not fantastic. It fucking sucks. I’ll be completely honest with you, I wasn’t expecting much from the Barbie movie. I thought it would be kitschy and cute. I had no idea the impact it would have on me. Now, I want to live in a Barbie World, where every night is girl’s night, the President is a woman and there’s a full female SCOTUS!
On Saturday, the girls and I dressed in our most pink outfits and went to see the Barbie movie. I am so blown away that I was completely without words until today. Wow! Just wow! I had a lot of emotions during this film, joy, sadness, anger, nostalgia, camaraderie. It was an emotional journey in the deepest sense. Mostly, I felt seen. I laughed, I cried, I smiled, I cried some more and then I fucking sobbed. Female empowerment is all the things.
There’s a lot to unpack. I had to sit with these feelings for a while. I can tell you that Greta Gerwig is forever my new female power hero. She deserves an Oscar for the writing and directing. The topics she tackled blew my feminist, girl mom, Barbie loving woman heart wide open. There are truly no words right now. I’m still trying to push back the tears. It was deep. It was complex. It was beautiful and messy. It tackled so much in so little time.
This movie may be the most powerful movie I’ll ever see in my lifetime.
This is the movie that I would watch over and over with my girls for all eternity. This is the movie I’ll watch with my friends, my sisters, my mom, my nieces and my granddaughters. This movie was brave and unafraid and I want to live in Barbie World because I’m all about the matriarchy.
Don’t get me started on America Ferrera. OMG!!! Representation matters and her speech, her raw realness is all of us. Margot Robbie was perfect casting because she is the most relatable beautiful woman ever and she took that script and delivered the meaning flawlessly. Ryan Gosling brought the perfect Kenergy.
When I watched the Barbie movie, I honestly experienced every emotion and it’s likely this post will do the same, so bear with me. It was everything I could hope for and, nothing I expected. This movie gutted me in the most beautiful way. I think it touched a nerve because it put a spotlight on just how truly hard it is to be a woman in this world. Something we are all painfully aware of but have to push down so that we can survive the experience. It is beautiful and messy, and we’re never given the credit we deserve but still we toil so that our daughters can someday have it better.
Barbie world is bizarro world in an alternative universe in the most beautiful and profound way. Men are marginalized and objectified. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think men or anyone should be marginalized or objectified and have their feelings, thoughts, wants and needs ignored or minimized but it was nice for once in my existence to be part of the majority, because as a Latina woman, I never have been nor will I ever be.
This monologue had me sobbing because it’s so hard and its never enough and no matter what we do, we’re never good enough. Even when we’re good enough. we’re not. Society puts these impossible standards on girls and women, and we internalize them and beat ourselves into submission over them and its never fucking good enough. What if we all just loved ourselves? We’d be unstoppable and I think that’s the point. they keep us in our boxes because they are terrified of what we’ll do if we didn’t have to be shackled to these stupid stereotypes and expectations of others. I want more for our daughters. We ride at dawn, and we wear pink!
Ryan Gosling definitely wins sexiest man alive 2023 in my book for being willing to exemplify and embody the ridiculousness that is misogyny on the big screen and real life. He put aside any societal expectation of masculinity and machismo. He played number two and will forever be number one in our hearts.
The Kendom definitely shone a light on toxic masculinity. Life was good and then it was terrible because suddenly the Kens were introduced to patriarchy and misogyny, and they embraced it with arms wide open because they wanted the power. Being powerless made them feel small and unseen (much like women are in the real world) so they embraced the bruh life. Suddenly, the Kens went from partners and friends to domineering, demanding machismos who only cared about their own feelings, wants, and needs. I found it particularly cringey when all the Kens were singing Matchbox Twenty’s Push. I used to love that song but hearing it sung in unison by all the Kens and really listening to all the lyrics enraged me.
As a mom, for many years, I felt conflicted and torn between my love for Barbie, the doll who made me believe that I could be anything, but looked impossibly perfect and the impossible standards she represented. I wanted to share my love for Barbie and absolute belief that anything is possible for girls with my daughters, but it felt duplicitous. By playing with Barbie, in all her perfection, was I actually part of the problem? Was I subconsciously sending the message that girls are never good enough? Because that wasn’t my intention.
There is a scene right before American Ferrera’s speech in which Barbie is crying and talking about how she is not pretty or good enough for anything and anyone because she is just a “Stereotypical” Barbie, after all. She has no specific profession, and she thinks that she really doesn’t serve a purpose, especially upon finding out that Barbies did not really change the real world.
Being a woman, especially a middle-aged woman and a mom, is difficult in so many ways. There comes a time where the lines of where you end and the people you love begins blurs. You lose yourself and then you start to feel invisible. Exhaustion sets in and you feel sort of gray. If you know, you know, and I know you know. You are part of those people more than you are yourself. And when they grow up and your looks start to change, you start to age out of the system of life that society has placed you in. You feel absolutely lost and unheard, drowning in the existential crisis that is who you were, who you are and who you will become. Who are you without them? What is your worth? If you disappeared, would anyone even notice?
I love being a woman, despite how hard life can be. No matter how discounted our hard work, intelligence and opinions go, largely ignored and diminished. Being a woman means spending your entire life fighting through our fears and hiding our weaknesses, never able to breakdown. The game is rigged, and we never get to win, no matter how hard we work or how good we are.
Being born a girl means toiling, grinding and, even with an IQ of 147 and 3 master’s degrees, still being treated like you’re less than every man in the room. Our beauty and sexuality are our only currency and its dirty fucking money. We spend our lives reduced to what lies between our legs and we know beauty is power. We are also painfully aware that beauty fades because society constantly reminds us to twist and tie ourselves up into knots to stay beautiful. We are taught to fear aging because our worth is directly tied to our beauty and our sexuality.
From now on, I’m going to greet every woman I meet with a hearty and happy, “Hey, Barbie!” because I think every single woman is perfection. And the fact that you’ve survived this long in this cruel and unfair world makes you not only beautiful but amazing. Men couldn’t do this. Their fragile egos would break. Meanwhile, we’ve spent our entire lives swallowing our pride and ignoring our egos and everything we know to be fair and good in the name of not causing problems.
This, got me in my mom heart. I love women but the most important women to me are the two I gave birth to and I felt this quote in my soul. The mother-daughter relationship is one of the most beautiful and complex that there ever will be. These are the women I will not only die for, I would kill for, and, sometimes they push us away. It really is the deepest cut when the person you love more than everything is just not that into you. But still, we toil and we bend until we nearly break because we want so much better for them. My Barbie dream is that one day the little girls will look back at this movie in the middle of the female power revolution and feel it’s completely unrelatable. I want a Barbie world for them, where equality is the norm and women can be seen as strong, intelligent crusaders for justice without being seen as militant.
Just know, no matter how much she smiles, supports and loves you, nobody wants to be second all the time. No one is satisfied with always being the supporting cast, especially in their own story.
There was a very seemingly innocuous but, all too real, misogynistic scene where the CEO of Mattel and all the Mattel executives (all men) were sitting around a table discussing Barbie with no female representatives present. Barbie enters the room and is in search of help. Their answer is to tell her to, “Get into the box and we’ll got back to Barbie land!” It was a moment of complete condescension. She agrees because she wants to go back to her Utopian female centric world. Who can blame her? Reality for women sucks. As they are shackling her back into the box, she has an epiphany. She can feel that this is not right, and she breaks free. As I watched her being shackled, I was physically nauseated and next, I was completely and unexpectedly enraged. You know, I am usually the wokest bitch in the room and this quiet and powerful moment nearly brought me to the point of wanting to set the theater on fire. The misogyny in which we women endure on a daily basis is so often and frequent that it becomes a part of our daily life, and we continue to let it pass because we are gaslit into thinking we are overreacting. When you feel in your gut that its wrong, its wrong. If you feel threatened, run. Don’t let them push you into that box.
Ladies, may we all aspire to live in a real Barbie world someday where all women are treated like humans and not objects. Where women support women and toxic masculinity is not only frowned upon but not tolerated. Dreaming of a kinder and more equal world. In my humble opinion, if you haven’t seen it… go see it. If you have bigger girls take them to see it. If you’re a feminist, a person who loves a feminist, a woman, a girl mom, or anyone who believes in equality, GO.SEE.THIS.MOVIE!!

I am buying the Barbie movie as soon it’s available. I am seriously so damn in my feelings with this masterpiece of female empowerment and cerebral satire, I just want to let it marinate. I want to show this movie to every single living woman and girl over the age of 12 and say…THIS…YOU.ARE.SEEN. But not just to share the movie and say we are seen but to incite a revolution for change. Who cares if we’re seen if that’s where it stops. Let’s keep the momentum going. We CAN change this narrative. You don’t have to go back into that fucking box manufactured by the patriarchy. I want so much more for all of our little girls. Barbie is the female empowerment movie that I’ve waited for my entire life. This is the movement.
This Barbie is never ever going back into the box.
2023/07/31
Best Horror Movies to Watch with Your Teens
I’ve been waiting for his moment for 13 years; the moment that I could watch horror movies with my daughters. I’ve been into the horror genre since I was about 7-years-old. It was the early 80’s and parenting was different back then. I’ve compiled this list of the best horror movies to introduce your teen to scary movies.
Ok, I’ll back up because I know that there is no world where I would allow my 7-year-old to watch horror movies. I had an aunt who was 17 when I was 7 and she would let me read her horror novels and even took me to see Friday the 13th in the movie theater. If you think that’s bad, she took my brother too, who was 5-years-old. If it makes it any better, she was married with a baby. She’d swap her baby for two of my mom’s kids. That was irresponsible babysitting swapping of the early 80’s.
I tried it and I loved it. Soon I was watching horror movies all the times. I was renting videotapes of horror movies for sleepovers. I read all the Steven King books before I watched the movies.
READ ALSO: Most Bingeworthy Halloween Shows to get Your Fright On
Anyways, I still love the horror genre and can be found watching horror movies from June through November. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays.
Until this year, going into the Halloween Store scared my oldest so badly, she’d cry when the animatronics would activate. I figured I was doomed to a life of streaming horror movies after the kids went to sleep but this year, that all changed. My oldest asked to watch horror movies with me. A horror fans dream come true.
At first, I was leery because you all remember my girls co-slept? I totally don’t want them back in my bed long term. It feels like I just got them out. She seemed serious and really wanted to try it so we started with some silly ones. One night after being terrified of clowns for the past year from the promo for IT by Stephen King last year, Bella asked if I’d watch it with her.
I said sure because, full disclosure, I don’t find IT scary. I find it more silly and funny like Ghoulies or Gremlins. Clowns don’t scare me. We watched the new IT and it’s been popcorn and teen horror movies ever since. In fact, we just took her and her bestie to see The Nun when it came out.
Here are my best horror movies to introduce your teen to scary movies.
1.Friday the 13^th1980 Rated-R
A group of camp counselors are stalked and murdered by an unknown assailant while trying to reopen a summer camp which, years before, was the site of a child’s drowning.
Basically, this horror movie is a tale of the ultimate helicopter mom. These counselors let her son drown. I find it completely acceptable that she’d go all crazy bear mom on them. In her mind, if they weren’t so busy making out and were watching the kids, her Jason would still be alive.
Let that be a lesson folks. In fact, I told my daughter ( teachable moment), “That’s why when you babysit, you pay attention to the kid you’re babysitting and don’t answer the phone.” Which brings me to the next movie.
2. When a Stranger Calls 1979 Rated-R
A psychopathic killer terrorizes a babysitter, then returns seven years later to menace her again.
This movie really used to freak me out because obviously anytime you would babysit in the 80’s your stupid friends would call the house line and breathe heavy and ask you, “Have you checked on the children?” It was completely freaky and anytime I watch this movie, if the phone rings, I still jump.
*Also, if you like this one, be sure to watch the horror movie Black Christmas ( 1974).
3. Halloween 1978 Rated- R
Fifteen years after murdering his sister on Halloween night 1963, Michael Myers escapes from a mental hospital and returns to the small town of Haddonfield to kill again.
Halloween, the original, is definitely one of my favorite horror movies of all time. I love the music. I love the idea. I love the cheesy screaming and gasping. I love the whole concept of a horror film about a child who is capable of such depravity. It is creepy.
All that being said, I hate most of the sequels. Stand-alone, some of them are interesting and funny but they don’t follow the story and they just seem absurd. Though I am looking forward to the latest installment with Jamie Lee Curtis.
If we are being honest, I totally love the 2 Halloween remakes made by Rob Zombie. The story is more cohesive and makes more sense.
4. The Omen 1976 Rated-R
Mysterious deaths surround an American ambassador. Could the child that he is raising actually be the Antichrist? The Devil’s own son?
The Omen is an interesting take on horror because it insinuates that even something as innocent as a child could be the anti-christ. It’s also scary to think that a child could be so malevolent that he would attempt to murder his own mother.
5. Carrie 1976 Rated-R
Carrie White, a shy, friendless teenage girl who is sheltered by her domineering, religious mother, unleashes her telekinetic powers after being humiliated by her classmates at her senior prom.
This movie is completely different than any other horror movie because it’s basically about a fundamentalist Christian girl who has telekinesis. That in itself wouldn’t be so scary except she is relentlessly bullied by everyone in her life, including her mother. The girl reaches a breaking point and instead of killing herself, she goes crazy on everyone else. I think of it more as a cautionary tale than a horror movie. It was a great teachable moment to remind my girls that this is why we don’t make fun of people.
6. The Exorcist 1973 Rated-R
When a teenage girl is possessed by a mysterious entity, her mother seeks the help of two priests to save her daughter.
Not going to lie, I am Catholic so possession horror is really the only kind of horror that scares me. The Exorcist terrified me because she was just a kid and she got possessed, meaning demons do not discriminate. I found her vulgarity, spider walking and head spinning vomiting to be particularly terrifying.
If you want to see a more contemporary possession that will truly haunt you ( but I would not recommend for your teens because it actually terrified me and I haven’t been able to watch it again) watch The Conjuring. The whole series is scary but the original Conjuring is still the one I find the most frightening.
READ ALSO: The True Story Behind my Ghost Photo
7. Poltergeist 1982 Rated-PG
A family’s home is haunted by a host of ghosts.
This is a good movie to introduce your teen to the horror genre because it is very PG. If you are afraid of clowns and televisions, it might keep you up at night but really it’s very mild. Of course, a little girl is imprisoned into another dimension via her tv so that was a little disturbing.
The creepiest thing about the whole movie was the fact that the house was built on a burial ground and apparently, no one bothered to move the bodies. Yikes. Buyer beware.
8. Texas Chainsaw Massacre 1974 Rated- NR
Two siblings and three of their friends en route to visit their grandfather’s grave in Texas end up falling victim to a family of cannibalistic psychopaths.
This is one of the most macabre horror movies, I’ve ever watched. I don’t know if it’s the fact that the Leatherface character is based on the serial killer, Ed Gein, the fact that they preface it by saying its a true story or just how creepy it is to think that something not supernatural but just evil could actually happen. Another good teachable moment for your teens.
I know one thing it taught me to never pick up hitchhikers, never go wandering off in Texas and always wear gym shoes so that I can run away from maniacs with chainsaws.
9. Nightmare on Elm Street 1984 Rated-R
The monstrous spirit of a slain janitor seeks revenge by invading the dreams of teenagers whose parents were responsible for his untimely death.
Firstly, a teenaged Johnny Depp is in this horror movie so you have to watch it. This is the perfect horror movie for teens because it is their age demographic. It was unique too in that it made us believe that the horrors we dream of in our nightmares could actually come true. It also made us feel isolated because no matter who the teens told, none of the adults seemed to believe them.
I don’t know about you but if I thought a burnt dude with daggers for fingers could attack and kill me while being a pervert in my nightmares and I could wake up dead, I’d be afraid to go to sleep too.
10. The Amityville Horror 1979 Rated-R
Newlyweds move into a large house where a mass murder was committed, and experience strange manifestations which drive them away.
This is the ultimate buyer beware story. Newlywed couple knowingly buys a house where a mass murder was committed because the price was so great. Unfortunately for them, it was too good to be true and the house came with a demon.
READ ALSO: The Walking Dead Season Premiere Gave me PTSD
Dad gets possessed. Mom is seeing things. The priest comes to bless the house and almost doesn’t live to tell the tale. The boys are maimed. The little girl is hanging with a demon pig and even the dog is being assaulted. The whole thing is a sh*t show but it’s scary because it was also touted as a “true story”.
These are my best horror movies to introduce your teen to scary movies.
This is the list we started with because they’re classics. They are scary but they don’t have the special effects and gore of some of the newer ones. I feel like introducing teens to horror movies should be like lowering yourself into a warm bath, not too fast and not too sudden so no one gets hurt.
Also, it goes without saying, but I’m going to say it anyways, watch the movies with your kids. Don’t let them watch them alone. You need to be there for moral support, to explain some of the themes and possibly the lingo back in the day.
Do you watch horror movies with your teens? What are your favorite teen horror movies?

2018/10/10
Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms Movie Review
Attending Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms Red Carpet experience gave me memories that will last a lifetime! I was hosted by Disney for the #DisneysNutcrackerEvent but all opinions are my own.
This week, not only did I get to attend the red carpet world premiere of Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms, I got to see one of my most anticipated movies of the year for me. I won’t post any spoilers in this post because I want you to go see it and experience it the way I did with no preconceived notions. Below is my Disney’s Nutcracker and the Four Realms Movie Review.
I will say that Christmas came early this year for my girls because Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms hits theaters today!
Let me start by saying that as a long time Nutcracker ballet aficionado, my expectations were high. I knew it would be different because one is a movie and one is a ballet. In a movie, you obviously have the luxury of using your words and in ballet, you only have your body as your means of expression.
READ ALSO: Disney’s Nutcracker and the Four Realms A Must Say for Ballet Dancers
I didn’t know if Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms was going to be based on the ballet or the book. But I was excited to find out. I can now tell you that Disney’s Nutcracker is not based on the ballet, though there are elements of the ballet peppered within. It is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s tale The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. Disney’s Nutcracker and the Four Realms Movie is rated PG and aside from a few Nutcracker Battle scenes it is very light. Safe for most children, in my mom opinion.

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Official Synopsis
All Clara (Mackenzie Foy) wants is a key – a one-of-a-kind key that will unlock a box that holds a priceless gift. A golden thread, presented to her at godfather Drosselmeyer’s (Morgan Freeman) annual holiday party, leads her to the coveted key—which promptly disappears into a strange and mysterious parallel world. It’s there that Clara encounters a soldier named Phillip (Jayden Fowora-Knight), a gang of mice and the regents who preside over three Realms: Land of Snowflakes, Land of Flowers and Land of Sweets. Clara and Phillip must brave the ominous Fourth Realm, home to the tyrant Mother Ginger (Helen Mirren), to retrieve Clara’s key and hopefully return harmony to the unstable world. Starring Keira Knightley as the Sugar Plum Fairy, Disney’s new holiday feature film “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is directed by Lasse Hallström and Joe Johnston, and inspired by E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic tale.
Reasons Why You Should See Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
The Four Realms
Unlike the ballet that only has three realms, the move has four realms. The land of sweets, the land of snow, the land of flowers and a mystery land but you’ll have to go see the movie to see what the mystery is. All the lands are different and beautiful in their own way.
The Ballet
The Nutcracker would not be the Nutcracker for most without some ballet so fear not because not only did Disney bring the ballet they brought the best, Misty Copeland. If you’ve never seen Misty Copeland dance the Nutcracker, this is a definite bonus of seeing Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms. Ms. Copeland’s dancing inspires and delights.
Scenery
If you are a fan of the ballet, the scenery will not disappoint. One of my favorite things about seeing the production in the theater is the transformation of a stage into the land of sweets. Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms does not disappoint. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking and transformative, transporting you through time and space. Crisp white snow falling against the colorful backdrops in the Nutcracker movie is cinematically breathtaking.
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Costumes
The costumes were beautiful and vibrant, each one a perfect reflection of the character wearing it. If you are familiar with the Nutcracker ballet you will see a lot of familiar costumes which will leave you with that warm fuzzy feeling of nostalgia that we all associate with the Nutcracker.
The Sugar Plum Fairy
Keira Knightley with her cotton candy hair, baby voice and bubbly personality gave me a whole new perspective of who the Sugar Plum Fairy really is. She will make you laugh but don’t be fooled, she is definitely more than just a pretty face.
Plot Twist
After seeing the movie, I can tell you this, expect the unexpected. Expect for your eyes to be dazzled by the beautiful imagery, your heart to swell with a new twist on a classic tale and your ears to find familiarity even amongst the exciting twists and turns that only Disney magic can provide.
Mackenzie Foy
Mackenzie Foy, to me, is the perfect Clara. A Clara for a new generation of girls to look up to. Not only is she what we’ve all imagined Clara to look like our entire lives, but she is also simultaneously a plot twist; an enigma wrapped up in a mystery. She may at first glance appear delicate but she is strong, self-assured, confident, smart and not afraid to face her fears. Not afraid to be the change, not afraid to say no and find her own way. She embodies everything we hope our little girls see in themselves and I think by seeing Mackenzie in such a strong, inspirational role they will.
Without giving away the ending for you, especially if you are a fan of the ballet, I really want you to watch Disney’s the Nutcracker with fresh eyes and an open mind. Pretend it is the first time you’ve ever seen the Nutcracker and enjoy every single moment. While it definitely pays homage to the classic, it stands alone as a new classic. You will want to watch this over and over again. It’s the movie you will watch with your children and your children’s children.
READ ALSO: The Nutcracker’s Tiniest Soldier
It’s heartwarming in all the best ways and recognizable enough to pull at your heartstrings with nostalgia. Just remember, and this is all I am saying, there is a plot twist from what you’ve known of the ballet and it’s more than just Mother Ginger. So go see it for yourself and expect the unexpected and them let me know what you think of Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms.
I just saw it but you can believe that tonight, I’ll be seeing it with my girls. They’ve been texting me and begging me to tell them all about it since I saw it but I want them to experience the magic of Disney’s the Nutcracker and the Four Realms all for themselves and I can’t wait to be there to see their reactions. If you see it or take your children, I’d love to hear your reactions and what your children thought. Please leave them in the comments section. And if you see it, what was your favorite part? Why?
THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS opens in theatres everywhere on November 2nd!
Follow #DisneysNutcracker on Social Media!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneysNutcracker
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisneyStudios
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disneysnutcracker/
If your kids love the movie, as much as I think mine will, these Disneys the Nutcracker and the Four Realms Coloring sheets are loads of fun to color.
2018/11/02
Top 15 Places to Visit and Things to Do with Teenagers in Boston

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
We’ve been visiting Boston with our girls every summer since they were littles. Nevertheless, there is just something so fun and conducive to making lifelong memories as a family about New England. Over the years, it has become our home away from home. If you’re planning travel with teenagers to Boston, there are plenty of exciting places to visit and activities to enjoy.
For a wicked good time, here are the top 15 places to visit including must-do, must-see and must-eat ( actually coming in the next post too many to mention here) places to check out with your teenagers while in Boston:
1. Fenway Park: If you’re in Boston during baseball season, catch a Red Sox baseball game at Fenway Park, one of the oldest and most iconic ballparks in the United States. The energetic atmosphere and passionate fans make it an unforgettable experience. It’s like a rock concert but with more peanuts and hot dogs and, finally, they’ll know why everyone gets so hyped and starts singing when “Sweet Caroline” starts playing.

2. Freedom Trail: I know it might sound boring but I promise it’s cool. I’ve taken my girls multiple times and we still discover new and cool stuff. Take a walk along the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that passes by 16 historically significant sites. It’s a great way for teenagers to learn about Boston’s rich history and the American Revolution with a side of cool old graveyards,

3. Museum of Science: Explore the Museum of Science, which offers interactive exhibits on various scientific subjects. From the planetarium and IMAX theater to the hands-on exhibits, there’s something to engage teenagers of all interests. Seriously, who can resist getting all hands on with interactive exhibits. Feels like Bill Nye the Science guy and Netflix had a baby.

4. New England Aquarium: Visit the New England Aquarium and discover marine life from around the world. Teenagers can enjoy watching penguins, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures, as well as experience the Giant Ocean Tank. If. you really want to make it an experience to remember, I would highly recommend taking a whale watching tour.
5. Boston Common and Public Garden: Spend time at Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, and the adjacent Public Garden. Take a swan boat ride, have a picnic, or simply relax in the green spaces and make sure to see the “Embrace” bronze sculpture memorial to MLK. It is stunning and a fun photo op for the gram.
6. Boston Harbor Islands: Take a ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands, a group of picturesque islands offering hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for kayaking or paddleboarding. Spectacle Island and Georges Island are particularly popular choices.

7. Skywalk Observatory: Head to the Skywalk Observatory at the Prudential Center for breathtaking views of Boston’s skyline. It provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, allowing teenagers to appreciate the city’s beauty from above. These views are unbeatable and definitely social media worthy. Your teens will love it.

8. Museum of Fine Arts: Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an extensive collection of artwork from different cultures and time periods. It’s a great opportunity for teenagers to explore diverse artistic expressions.

9. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum: Experience a unique historical reenactment at the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Teenagers can participate in the interactive exhibits, throw tea overboard ( and you know how much their angsty asses love to rebel), and learn about the events leading to the American Revolution.

10. Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall: Visit Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall, bustling marketplaces in the heart of Boston. Teenagers can enjoy shopping, sampling various cuisines, and watching street performers in this vibrant area. Hungry? Obviously, because teenagers always are, food is sport at Quincy Hall. There’s lobster rolls, pastries and all the clam chowder your teen foodies could ever imagine or hope for.

11. Duck tour: Undeniably, they are a bit silly but they are a great way to explore Boston. Jump on this amphibious vehicle and check out everything bean town has to offer, including the river. Oh yes, this Boston safari will put your teens in just enough imagined danger to keep things exciting. No, they are not actually in danger but that’s not the way they’ll tell it to their friends back home.

12. Charles River Esplanade: There’s nothing like a cool summer or fall stroll on the esplanade. Hang by the river while playing frisbee, people-watching while taking in breathtaking views of the Boston skyline. It is instagram and TikTok heaven.

13. Shopping: Newbury Street, downtown crossing, Prudential center and Copley place, oh my! Boston is one of our favorite places to shop. They have something for everyone and if you have girl, like I do, shopping (and eating) are two things we can definitely agree on from Saks to Gucci to Free People and Primark, this is some of the best shopping you and your teenagers will do. May I suggest, if you are not extremely wealthy, hit up Primark first. Great fast-fashion from a European brand but with Target prices. It’s the first place my girls want to hit as soon as we arrive. You’ll thank me later.
14. The Swing Park at the Signature: This is such a fun thing to do for people of every age (honestly you could take your little kids or even your grandparents) but your teens will love this at night. We spent hours there, from sunset until it was dark out swinging on those glowing swings. The Lawn on D at the Signature also offers pickleball, lawn games and adult beverages.

15. Visit Harvard and Cambridge: Harvard is just a short drive away from downtown Boston and your teens will have a blast visiting the campus and soaking in all the ivy league vibes. The campus is gorgeous and why not plant that seed? Plus, Cambridge is full of fun little restaurants and shops to explore. My girls loved it.
This is just a get started list of places to visit and things to do with teenagers in Boston.
If you’re looking for a great place to stay with teenagers that’s right in the middle of all the Boston energy and excitement, we’ve been staying at The Hyatt Regency Bost on for over a decade. If you’ve followed along over the years on my instagram, you’ve seen the breathtaking views and know, that its in the heart of the downtown crossing area.
Just a stones throw away from Chinatown and easily walkable to almost anywhere your heart could want to go in Boston. However, most importantly, the customer service and attention to their guests is what keeps us coming back every single year. We’ve tried other hotels but nothing compares to how we are treated at the Hyatt Regency Boston. Bonus: There is nothing quite like a comfortable bed to take a midday vacation nap on and the Hyatt always delivers. Thank you Hyatt for always be such gracious hosts.
While these attractions offer a mix of history, culture, outdoor adventures, and entertainment that will keep teenagers engaged and entertained during their visit to Boston. Time to unleash your teenagers on Boston and let them explore and soak in all the culture, history, shopping and delicious food that Boston has to offer.

What is your top place to visit or thing to do with your teenagers in Boston?
2023/08/13
Wicked Musical Celebrates 20 Years and a Giveaway!
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Just went to see Beauty and the Beast the musical at the Chicago Shakespeare theater a couple weeks ago and I forgot how much I adore Broadway shows. I am actually obsessed. Have you ever had a favorite t-shirt that you just couldn’t part with, no matter how many holes it had in it? I have a few that are over 30 years old that I just can’t let go of. I am a loyal hoarder, if I am anything. Maybe you have a favorite movie that you can watch or song that you can listen to over and over again? For me, it’s Wicked. If I could spend the rest of my life watching 2 things it would be the Barbie movie and the Wicked musical. This October, Wicked celebrates it’s 20th anniversary and I’m celebrating with a Wicked Giveaway!
Over the years, I’ve fallen in love with many musicals for many different reasons but there is just something about Wicked that hits my heart on a spiritual level. I’ve seen it many times and I never tire of it. Not any of it. I would willingly watch it every day for the rest of my life. That’s how much I love this musical. Guess what?
I’m a writer so I love the symbolism in Wicked. It’s not what we expected it to be and that is my favorite kind of anything. I love a good plot twist, especially if its empowering. The plot sort of picks up where all the holes in the Wizard of Oz left off. It’s sort of how the Rob Zombie Halloween series is more thorough with the backstory of Michale Myers and I am always here for understanding why the antagonist is really the hero. And yes, Elphaba is definitely an unexpected hero.
The musical “Wicked” is known for its rich symbolism. Here are a few of my favorites:
1. Good and Evil: The story explores the concept of good and evil, challenging the notion that appearances alone can determine a person’s true nature. It delves into the complexities of morality, emphasizing that things are not always black and white.
2. Discrimination and Prejudice: “Wicked” addresses themes of discrimination and prejudice, drawing parallels to real-world issues. It highlights the dangers of judging individuals based on stereotypes and the importance of empathy and understanding.
3. Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Elphaba (the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda (the Good Witch) serves as a central theme. Their evolving friendship showcases the power of loyalty, forgiveness, and the ability to support each other in times of adversity.
4. Power and Corruption: The pursuit and abuse of power are depicted through the characters of the Wizard and Madame Morrible. It reflects how power can corrupt individuals and the consequences it can have on society.
5. Self-Discovery and Acceptance: The character of Elphaba goes through a journey of self-discovery, embracing her differences and learning to accept herself. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and staying true to one’s beliefs.
These are just a few examples, and “Wicked” offers multiple layers of symbolism that can be interpreted in various ways, enriching the experience for its audiences. If you haven’t seen it yet, go see it. It will move you and change your perspective of the antagonist. You thought you knew but you don’t. Everything is not as it seems. Inside all of us is a little wicked trying to get out.
The Wicked Collaboration and Giveaway that you didn’t know you need. American Girl and Wicked have partnered in celebration of 20 years. Thanks to the generosity of American Girl, I will be giving one lucky winner the American Girl Elphaba and Glinda costume sets! Just enter below! Good luck!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
2023/08/04
How to Plan the Perfect Camping Trip for Your Family
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Planning a family vacation is always a little stressful, especially in an ever evolving global pandemic. Aside from just being safe these days, you have to find a way to keep each member of the family entertained – from fussy toddlers to brooding teens, and do so without going broke. Organization and little planning go a long way when planning family trips so there’s no meltdowns during your trip. Have you ever thought about planning a camping or RVing trip for your family? Honestly, we’re considering buying one. Our teen girls are begging us because we’ve had such great times on our past trips. That’s saying something when “roughing it” is our daughters’ dream vacation.
Right now with vaccines in full effect and summer approaching, we’re all struggling to plan our next trip. COVID-19 travel restrictions are constantly changing. However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to plan a memorable and exciting family vacation. Just think outside the box and plan an adventurous camping trip. You won’t be disappointed, believe me! Been there, done that, doing it again and again for infinity.
A camping trip is perfect opportunity to just breathe.
There are a lot of benefits to a family camping or RVing trip. You get to spend some time unplugged from technology and listening to each other instead of stuck behind your phone. No fear of missing out on everything happening right where you are. Yes, I know after 2020 and quarantining, more together time might not be what you had in mind. But choosing to be together is something entirely different from being imprisoned together by a global pandemic.
Also, you can get up close and personal with nature, which is an adventure within itself. Vacationing in national parks and sharing that quiet time taking in nature with your children is priceless. Everyone can shed the roles of who they are expected to be and just be. If you get up early enough, you can even sneak in some together time with your partner. What relationship can’t benefit from that?
Camping means finding quiet moments to appreciate each other without the noise of the world interrupting.
With that in mind, here are some tips you can use. Here’s how to plan the perfect camping or RVing trip for your family!
- Choose your destination for overnight camps carefully. While you may want privacy and relaxation, choose a site that is not too far from civilization. If you’re new to camping, you’ll appreciate access to shops and similar facilities if you need them. With kids, you’ll need them. It’s a good idea to reserve a spot at a camping site or national park far in advance ( like now) mainly due to the rise in popularity of camping trips in 2021.
- Plan an itinerary for activities that you can participate in around your chosen destination. For example, while an afternoon hike will always be exciting (and won’t cost you a penny), it becomes distinctly less fun if it’s raining. Instead, you might want to check out a local museum or head to the movie theater. Try to have a plan in place so that each day is varied. Remember that you can always drive to a neighboring town too.
- Ensure that you have everything you need for a successful camping trip on hand. For example, you cannot simply purchase a tent and a few sleeping bags and hope for the best. You should also ensure that you have easy access to a first aid kit, flashlights, and similar safety-related products. Also, if you’ll be cooking and preparing your own meals, you’ll need to purchase a tent stove or camping stove. This means that you can save money and make exciting meals from scratch instead of having to stop by restaurants. Make it more exciting and catch what you eat. There are plenty of options to choose from, and you can see the full list here.
- Take turns choosing which activities you participate in each evening. For example, this could mean that you bring a collection of board games, host an outdoor movie night or my favorite sitting around a campfire talking under the stars. Giving every member of the family a turn to select the activity means that everyone will be happy and enjoy their vacation.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where is your dream destination for a family camping trip?
2021/04/22
When a Settee Holds the Stories of Your Life
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
It’s funny how changing something as simple as a throw pillow, a blanket or a chair can change the whole vibe of a room. Don’t even get me started on a paint color or art. When we bought our current home, it was a fixer-upper but we saw the potential because it “had good bones” as my Father-in-law would say. It wasn’t going to be instant gratification; it wasn’t our dream home but it had a charm and was in the perfect neighborhood for a young family. So we bought it.
Disclosure: This is a compensated post written in partnership with Wayfair, but, as always, all opinions are my own.
We’ve grown with the house. As we’ve renovated and changed every single thing in this house in the past 9 years, we’ve also changed in every single way except for one, we are still that oversharing, possibly co-dependent family who does everything together. We laugh, cry, scream and shout together. We lift each other up and face change head on, just like this old house. We’ve got good bones.
This house has welcomed friends and family for dinners and holidays, it’s hosted several Halloween and Ugly sweater parties. Echoed the sounds of newest additions to the family and enveloped the cries of pain and sorrow of loss. It’s witnessed love in more ways than I ever thought possible. With its meager structure, it’s brought us through a pandemic. Now, it will see our daughters turn 15. In fact, our Bella turned 15 during the first week of the pandemic. Out Gabs will turn 15 next spring.
15-years-old is the age a Latina girl becomes a young woman in the Latino culture. It is the same age that the Catholic church recognizes children as adults. Being a Quinceañera is something all little Latina girls look forward to from the day they attend their first Quinces party and realize that someday, they will get to wear the big dress and crown and be the princess in not just their parents’ eyes but to everyone. She will be celebrated in a way that most girls may never get the chance to be.
We had such a beautiful celebration planned for Bella. It was as big and grand as any wedding and years in the planning. Friends and family for all over the country were planning to come. Bella, who is a shy and humble introvert, was ecstatic to celebrate this Latina rite of passage. I wasn’t able to have my own Quinceañera because my parents couldn’t afford to throw that party 3 times, and they had 3 girls so it’s something I’ve always dreamed of giving my girls.
She had the dress, crown and shoes. Months of practicing professionally created choreography by her world-renowned ballet teacher with her damas and chambelanes. Decorations, food, outfits and even a special settee for our princess, to serve as her throne for the night. Months of organizing and planning, saving and working towards goals all to be taken away by a global pandemic.
Then the pandemic hit and snatched it away from her on her actual birthday, 1 day before her the biggest party of her life, the CoVid pandemic caused the country to come to a screeching halt. She was inconsolable. I didn’t even know how to reason it with her. How do you reason with a 15-year-old who just lost something she was looking forward to for years? Think of trying to reason with a bride who just lost her wedding the night before the wedding because the world had other plans.
We tried to reschedule for August but, as we all know, the pandemic was not done (still isn’t). Family and friends sent her well-wishes and tried to cheer her up. But the dress still hangs in the corner and all the decorations are boxed up in our theater room. Champagne flutes and Mexican candy for 200 are collecting dust next to the decorations and atop all of it there are two crowns and a last doll, as a constant reminder of what never was. But the settee, the one that was to hold her in her big dress on her big day, now sits in our dining room and is where she sits to do virtual school. It’s where she often naps when she’s feeling down. It’s where her and her sister sit, cut up, laugh and plan their TikToks.
This settee is more than just a place to sit, it’s a place to reflect and feel your feelings. It not only changed the room in this old house, it occasionally changes the moods of my daughters. Most importantly, next June, it will hold my Bella on the day we celebrate her and her sister, Gabs, in a post-pandemic double quinceañera celebration like you’ve never seen. I guess now, I’ll have to order another one so each princess has her own thrown. When they move out someday, I will send these settees with them so they can always remember their big day and the family who loves them more than they can even imagine.
2021/03/31