Wanderings & Ponderings
Many of us are searching these days. No matter our age, background, or beliefs, we just want to be happy! How can we do this in a constantly-connected yet lonely-and-divided world, where depression and anxiety are at an all-time high and where our planet is bearing the brunt of our humanity? My life, writing, art, and adventures are all an exploration of this question. So far, I’ve found it all starts with inner peace and outer connection. Simple, but definitely not easy. I hope you enjoy the tips, tools, and ideas I’m learning along the way. I’d love to hear some of yours!
The Splendor (and Importance) of Dark Skies!
Who doesn’t love a sunset? Watching the center of our solar system descend in a blaze of color certainly stirs our senses. But this display is only half of our galaxy’s remarkable show. Do yourself a favor and find a dark night sky to fill your soul! Beyond intangible feelings of wonder and peace, dark skies offer relief from the bombardment of artificial light that scientists now know disrupts sleep, increases stress, and adds to chronic disease.
10 Ways to Avoid Road Trip Boredom & Battles
Planning a family road trip? Take it from me, as beautiful as scenery might be, long hours of driving can make anyone cranky. Luckily, we had few outbursts on our 7,000-miles adventure to 20 national parks. What was our secret? How did we alleviate all-out rebellion? See my 10 top tips.
My Children, My Friends
What more can I want on Mother’s Day than to have children who have grown into people I truly like and respect? To know they are adults with care, kindness, and a deep desire to live in ways true to themselves? While I’ll always worry about them as their mom, I’m forever grateful to be in the stage where we also are friends.
Have Fun, Stay Safe! 10 Tips for Family Hikes
Longer days, warmer temps and pandemic fatigue… what better motivation to go for a good hike with your kids? But rescues and trash in our natural areas are at an all-time high because of an influx of first-timers. See 10 tips to help you have fun and stay safe on family hikes!
Do National Parks Beckon? 10 Tips to Plan Your Trip
We learned many things the hard way when planning the 7,000 mile adventure to 20 national parks in Eye Rolls & Awe: A National Park Road Trip with Teens. Don’t miss our top 10 tips!
10 Less Crowded National Parks as Road Trip Fever Heats Up
As spring fever heats up, you can bet that the National Parks will be a magnet for millions wanting to shed the COVID-and-weather-intense winter. But you can enjoy magnificent natural treasures without feeling like you are at Times Square on a pre-pandemic New Year’s Eve. Here are 10 destinations to fill your wanderlust without crowds.