All posts by Christine

I'm an adventurous parent, single mom, techy. I love hiking, biking, skiing, life in general
Fall Family Adventure, Travel

White Water Rafting Adventure With the Family

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White water rafting is a fun, exciting adventure that pretty much anyone can participate in. You can vary the difficulty level up alot by choosing which class of rapids you want to handle, what kind of boat, or in some cases, tube, and how long you want to go for.

Whitewater Rafting with Children in the United States

A whitewater trip with the family is tons of bonding opportunities. You are drifting through a beautiful area, there are moments where you really have to work together, and hilarious things invariably happen on a rafting trip. It will give you tons to talk about for years to come. The best times for rapids are Spring and Fall. Fall usually when dams are released.

Be careful to check the classes of rapids for the season. It can even vary by day if there’s been significant rain. So always check before heading out. Class one  and two are good for beginners and young kids. Three and four are getting pretty serious, so I’d recommend saving that for the older kids, as well as five and six. Six is for experts only. Here are some great ideas for where to travel with your children on your next big family adventure

Lehigh River, Pennsylvania

The Lehigh River in the Pocono Mountains offers Class II and III rapids, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate rafters. The fall foliage along the riverbanks adds to the beauty of the experience. Companies like Pocono Whitewater and Whitewater Challengers offer guided rafting trips.

River Rider Family Adventure Resort, Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Take the family on a variety of excursions at this one stop shop for everything fun. It’s year round as well. So there’s rafting, zip lining, e-biking and tubing in the winter. It’s only one hour from the DC and Baltimore Metro Regions, River Riders Inc. offers white water rafting, tubing, canopy tour/zip lining, aerial forest adventure parks, kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, lodging options and fishing adventures on the beautiful Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers (class I-III) in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. You can get a full day Adventure pass to spend the day having fun with the family. For more information, check out The River Rider Adventure Resort.

Photo Cred: River Rider Family Adventure Resort

Colorado River, Grand Canyon, Arizona

Rafting through the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking experience, offering both calm waters and thrilling rapids. There are various trip lengths available, ranging from short one-day excursions to multi-day adventures.

Snake River, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The Snake River offers family-friendly rafting trips with Class II and Class III rapids, making it suitable for beginners and young kids. The picturesque Teton Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for your rafting adventure.

Salmon River, Idaho

Known as the “River of No Return,” the Salmon River provides a mix of gentle stretches and exciting rapids, making it an excellent option for families seeking both relaxation and adrenaline-pumping fun.

Deschutes River, Oregon

The Deschutes River offers family-friendly rafting experiences with Class II and Class III rapids. The scenic canyon and high desert landscape add to the charm of this adventure.

Nantahala River, North Carolina

This river is a great option for families with younger children or those new to rafting. It offers Class II rapids and a beautiful mountainous setting.

Whitewater rafting on the Nantahala

Arkansas River, Colorado 

The Arkansas River provides a range of rafting options suitable for families, from mild Class II sections to more challenging Class III and IV rapids in other areas. There are many family-friendly rafting outfitters in this region.

Rogue River, Oregon

The Rogue River offers a mix of calm waters and moderate rapids, providing families with a memorable and scenic rafting experience.

American River, California 

The American River features three forks, each with different levels of difficulty. The South Fork is suitable for families and beginners, offering Class II and III rapids.

Gauley River, West Virginia

If you have older kids or teenagers, the Gauley River can provide an exciting adventure with its intense Class IV and V rapids during certain times of the year.

Whitewater Rafting Destinations Outside of The United States

Futaleufú River, Chile

Located in Patagonia, the Futaleufú River is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and challenging Class IV and V rapids. The stunning mountainous landscape adds to the adventure.

Zambezi River, Zambia, and Zimbabwe

Rafting on the Zambezi River provides an adrenaline-pumping experience, particularly near Victoria Falls, with some of the wildest Class V rapids in the world.

Pacuare River, Costa Rica

This tropical paradise offers an incredible rafting experience through lush rainforests and stunning canyons. The Pacuare River features Class III and IV rapids.

Ottawa River, Canada

The Ottawa River offers an array of rapids suitable for various skill levels, making it a great family-friendly option. The river flows through beautiful wilderness and features Class III and IV rapids.

Reventazón River, Costa Rica

Another gem in Costa Rica, the Reventazón River, provides a mix of Class II to Class IV rapids, surrounded by lush jungles and vibrant wildlife.

Franklin River, Tasmania, Australia

The Franklin River offers remote and challenging rafting trips through the wilderness of Tasmania. It’s a fantastic option for experienced rafters seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Tara River, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Tara River Canyon is the second deepest in the world and offers thrilling Class III to V rapids, cutting through stunning Balkan landscapes.

Sun Kosi River, Nepal

Rafting on the Sun Kosi River allows you to experience the beauty of the Himalayas while navigating through exhilarating Class III to IV rapids.

The White Nile, Uganda

The White Nile is a popular destination for rafters of all levels, offering challenging rapids, beautiful scenery, and opportunities to spot unique wildlife along the riverbanks.

Planning Your Trip

Remember, safety should always be a top priority when rafting with your family. Make sure to choose a reputable rafting outfitter that provides experienced guides and appropriate safety equipment. Additionally, check the minimum age and skill requirements for each trip to ensure it matches your family’s abilities and preferences.

When planning a whitewater rafting trip outside of the USA, it’s essential to research local regulations, choose reputable outfitters, and consider the best time of year to experience optimal water levels and weather conditions. Always prioritize safety by using appropriate gear and going with experienced guides.

Photo by Ramon Buçard on Unsplash

How To, Parenting, Summer Adventure, Winter Adventure

Traveling On Airplanes with Kids

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Traveling with kids on an airplane doesn’t have to be a drama. Sure, airports, security, all that, can make for a stress inducing start to a trip, but accept that you’ll get through it and you’ll be fine. Here are some tips to make it easier to get to the finish line–usually a beach somewhere or Grandma’s house.

Consider packing one carry on just for snacks. Since each child can have one carry on as well as you, pick one piece of luggage to store snacks, wipes, plastic forks and spoons, toys.

prepare for taking your child on an airplane
Even just looking at this picture, gives me a twinge of stress. Even though it’s just a picture. Am I right or am I right?

Good Snacks for the Plane

Fruit if allowed (apples, oranges, pears, peaches, bananas), granola bars, Kind bars, cheese (I brought a big chunk of cheddar and a plastic knife once and that got us through the first half of a trip to Hawaii.), Oatmeal cookies. Now is not the time to make a fuss about their eating habits. It’s all about getting through the day and keeping them from driving you and everyone else crazy on the plane. No I would not recommend this on a normal day, but there is nothing normal about trying to get little kids to manage through hours of sitting still on a plane, in a seat with very little room. So give yourself a break, and pack the Skittles.

Good but Messy Snacks

These of course are kid favorites, but take into account the amount of hours your flight is. Bring these by all means, but resign yourself to the fact that you will be sitting in mounting piles of crumbs once these babies are unleashed. If you can look the flight attendant in the eye after you peel out of the seat, go ahead and pack them. Besides, it’s nothing they haven’t seen before. So pack the crackers, Cheeze Its, cookies, raisins, fruit roll ups, dried fruit, seaweed snacks, graham crackers,  cheerios, pretzels, and nuts and make your peace with it.

Toys, Toys, Toys, Did We Mention Toys?

Let there be toys! However, try to bring ones without lots of small parts. Also bring books, cards, stuffed animals (only take a few-they take up space and are easily left behind), simple crafts that can be done on a tray table and don’t have a zillion pieces, or require scissors, better yet, unless you see something that works, skip the crafts as there’s likely no room. If you are in first class, then maybe you can bring the crafts-but keep them simple. Coloring books but prepare to be picking up crayons from weird places for the majority of the trip. I would go as far as tying strings on the crayons and only bringing a few. I’m not kidding.

A Note About Favorite Stuffed Animals

And a reminder about stuffed animals. If you can get away with it, I highly advise you bring the B side team of stuffed animals. If you bring the favorites and they get left behind it will ruin your trip. Think about all the places between home and your destination that that one tiny stuffed animal can end up lost forever. So either bring a doppleganger, or bring the B side of creatures that will not send your child into a fit of dispair if one of them disappears.

Electronics on A Plane

God bless electronics. DS and other handheld games, Ipad, mini DVD players, laptops. Remember to charge everything up ahead of time and download the movies you want to see. You might be able to get wifi on the plane but it usually doesn’t allow movie streaming. Invest in a juicebox type charger that will allow you to add additional charges to your gear. If the upgrade to first class is doable, consider it on long flights as many of the seats now come with charging stations. Check first.

Don’t make the rookie mistake of forgetting the headphones and bring a spare.

In case you don’t have time to read, check out my video on traveling on planes with kids

Bring the Car Seat on The Plane

If your child is very small, you’ll need to bring a car seat on the plane if you don’t want them sitting in your lap. Many car seats convert to airplane travel friendly. It’s not counted as luggage. Strollers can be checked at the gate and that’s handy as it will be waiting for you on the other side.

Safety Harnesses, Don’t Judge

I had one on my daughter at customs coming back from Turks and Caicos to JFK and it was a God-send. Long lines and little kids don’t mix. I could let her wander around and she couldn’t go very far, but I had the comfort of knowing she could move around a little without disappearing in a crowd–where I’d have to lose my place in line to go get her. And they come in cute designs like teddy bear backpacks, etc.

When we were in Turks and Caicos, my daughter was like a fish on a line, The minute I felt a tug I knew to check on what was going on a few feet away. Did I get the stink-eye from the Uber parents and the people who don’t have kids but think they know everything? Sure. But she’s alive and sitting on her bed, reading in her room today. God forbid, I’m not wondering where she is.

I say get over the leash thing if you can. People may frown upon it but who cares. It’s your child’s safety. No need to apologize. And if you don’t use it anywhere else, consider taking one if you have a potentially long customs line waiting for you. After awhile I found the only place I ever really used a leash/harness was on long lines. But it depends on how rambunctious your child is.

Temporary Tattoos and Skin Writable Markers

Safety temporary tattoos are awesome. Put them on, write your phone number on the tattoo with the special pen and you’ve got one less worry. You don’t really need the tattoos but they are cute and somehow make you look less neurotic. I had a handful sent to me back when I was an editor for Disney and they were fantastic. Little buttlerflies and stuff with a space for “If Found, call XXX.” I would not write your child’s name on them though in case someone uses it to their advantage. A phone number can be called, traced etc. A name can be used to subvert a kids’ normal sense of discomfort around a creepy stranger. I’ve also seen markers in toy stores for this purpose. Just make sure it’s not going to hurt your child and avoid the sharpies if you can. Otherwise, there is always the Sharpies.

Photo by Hanson Lu on Unsplash

Photo by Christopher Ott on Unsplash

Fall Family Adventure, Summer Adventure, Summer Travel, Travel, Winter Adventure

Take the Family to Iceland: An Adventure They Won’t Forget

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A Family Travel Adventure to a Really Cool Place: Iceland

Where should we go this year? How about Iceland? Good food, lots of walking, lots of hiking. The kids will love it. They will be worn out every night. Here are some of our favorite moments from our adventures!

Complete your family adventure with this classic T shirt to let everyone know you and your family checked the box on that bucket list.

Order Here

To check out the waterfalls, here’s a great private tour of Seljalandfoss for the family.

Learn more about traveling in Iceland here:

Tour the Golden Circle and Kerid Volcanic Crater

or here’s another place for a variety of tours of Iceland with your family, especially if you have teens.

Snorkel the Great Continental Divide in Iceland

Recommended Family Adventure Travel Tours in Iceland

Photo by Nicolas J Leclercq on Unsplash

Videography by Joe Kennedy

Living Well

Five Things You Need: Don’t Miss Out On the Secret Algorithm for Winning!

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Ever wondered if there was a formula for winning? Well, there is no one-size-fits-all mathematical equation for winning, but we can think about the things we need to do to work on ourselves to make it happen and do more winning. Start winning with this formula:

Winning = (Preparation + Effort + Strategy) × (Perseverance + Adaptability)

  • Preparation: Thoroughly prepare for the task or competition at hand. Gathering knowledge, skills, and resources can increase your chances of success.
  • Effort: Put in hard work and dedication. Committing yourself to giving your best effort is crucial in achieving your goals.
  • Strategy: Develop a well-thought-out plan to guide your actions and make informed decisions that lead you closer to your objective.
  • Perseverance: Stay determined and persistent, even in the face of challenges and setbacks. Resilience is essential in overcoming obstacles on the path to success.
  • Adaptability: Be flexible and open to adjusting your approach as circumstances change. Adaptability allows you to respond effectively to unexpected situations.

Winning isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on what you are trying to win. In some situations, winning might mean achieving a specific goal, while in others, it could be about personal growth or learning from experiences. Additionally, success is subjective, and the factors contributing to it may vary depending on individual goals and aspirations.

Ultimately, success often involves a combination of hard work, planning, resilience, and the ability to adapt to different situations. And not being afraid to keep doing all of the above.

While there is no guaranteed formula for winning, embracing these principles can improve your chances of achieving your desired outcomes and personal growth.

Photo by Sai De Silva on Unsplash

Educational Adventures, Fall Family Adventure, Parenting, Summer Adventure, Summer Travel, Travel, Winter Adventure, Winter Travel

Taking Your Teen To Florence, Italy

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So this summer I used my Chase Sapphire card points and booked a trip to Italy for my daughter and me. She decided to go to an art high school in NYC and so I figured it was the perfect time to go.

Taking Your Teen to Florence, Italy

There is something amazing about taking your child to a city like Florence, Italy. It feels good to be able to be the first to show them this kind of place and you are doing your job as a parent by taking them on an educational adventure like this. We hit all the usuals, the Ponte Vecchio Bridge, the Santa Maria Del la Fiori, the Baptistry doors, the Uffizi, the leather market, lots of great food and of course gelato. But I have to tell you the best part of the adventure was taking the cute, new tram straight into Florence from just outside the city. And I’ll tell you why.

Taking the Tram in Florence

So my daughter is going on fifteen and she’s starting to get more independent. When I booked the hotel in Florence I didn’t realize that I booked it about 20 minutes outside of Florence. We had landed in the train station when we came up from Rome and then hopped in a cab and it was a bit of a drive to the hotel. “Great,” I thought as we moved away from the tile roofs and domes of Florence. But it turned out to be the best thing.

So we got our tickets, the nice, clean, bright tram pulled up. We got in and my daughter was in love. What did she do, she went and sat on the other side of the tram car from me. At first I was insulted and then I realized what was happening. She was trying to pretend she was there on her own, like a student, just getting around. There she was, reading her phone with her headphones and her backpack, sitting on the tram seat, like this is what she did every day. She was feeling pretty proud of herself I think. She did this every time we got on the tram.

So I was watching my daughter grow up a little right before my eyes. When we got off she was a little braver than usual, found a place she wanted to get breakfast and we walked in. She went up to the counter and attempted her Italian and he answered her in English and gave her the pastry she pointed out. She was pretty darn proud of herself. The tram takes you straight into Florence so it was super easy to get to the middle of the city from there. She noticed a big posted for a graphic design school in Florence called the Sign. She was again in love. She wanted to know more about this school so on our last day in Florence we did go check out the school.

Adventure Parent taking your kid to see botcellis la primavera
So excited to see this painting in the Uffizi. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing the back of my daughter’s head as she looks at this painting.
Adventure Parent Uffizi Leonardo Da Vinci Angel
This is the painting that Leonardo Da Vinci painted the angel
Adventure Parent, Boticelli La Primavera Uffizi
Looking at the La Primavera by Botticeli at the Uffizi
Adventure Parent florence italy baptistry doors
Gheberti’s Baptistry doors. The originals are now in the museum but still, a fantastic copy
Adventure Parent Boticelli birth of venus Florence Italy
Amazing to see this painting and be so close to it.
Adventure Parent taking pictures of the dome florence italy
What it’s all about. Making memories in Florence Italy
taking the high speed train from rome to florence adventure parent
Here we are about to board our high speed train to Florence. We took one to Venice as well.
Adventure Parent streets of Florence Italy
Walking the streets of Florence Italy
Adventure Parent Taking Your Teen To Florence Italy
Here we are having lunch on the roof of a big store with the dome in the background, Florence Italy

The Statue of David In Florence, Italy

Morgan and I made our way through the city and saw all the usual sights. I have to tell you it was really hot in Florence this August but we made due. We headed over to the Academia to see the David. I don’t think the last time I was there I took the time to see the rest of the museum so we took the opportunity to really go through and see everything else. There’s quite a bit of sculpture and Renaissance art up close, so I strongly suggest you take the time to look around. Don’t just go in say Hi to David and leave.

Touring the Uffizi

After that we had lunch at one of the many cool al fresco restaurants in the area and found the price to a bit more reasonable than Rome. Afterward, I brought her to the Uffizi. I looked at Morgan pretty incredulously when she asked me why we needed to go into the Uffizi. I said “you can’t be an art student and not go to the Uffizi, we are going.” So the nice thing about August is that the lines are not insane. We got in after maybe a 10 minute wait and we headed up. The Uffizi as usual is amazing. I made a bee line to see my all time favorite painting. Botticelli’s birth of Venus. And of course across the room was La Primavera. I thought, “OK now I can die.” I’ve actually stood in its presence once before but I was probably 20 and I’m um, not 20 anymore. I’ve also found that since I survived a bout of septic shock last year, my memory of certain things is foggy. I knew I went to the Uffizi before but I couldn’t remember a thing from that trip, so it was nice to renew some of these memories.

So we saw work by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. So many famous names in one place it’s a little overwhelming. My daughter was of course, cooler about it than I was, but I let her wander on her own and we texted to find each other again.

After an amazing time in the Uffizi we went out and walked more around the city. We stopped at the leather market and the walked across the Ponte Vecchio. I thought about the last time I was here I was with my mother and she bought my a tri-colored gold necklace that I still have. Now I was making my new memories with my daughter. She found an old woman selling watercolors. We looked closely and could see they were real and not printed copies. She signed all her work and told us that her name goes way back in Florence as painters and there’s a painting in the Uffizi with her family name and says the artist is a relative. I thought, why doubt her? She’s here living in Florence all her life, why wouldn’t she be related to an artist. My daughter was absolutely fascinated with this woman and chatted with her about going to art school. She loved the watercolors this woman had done and they were indeed very different than the scam ones you can see on the street.

My daughter ended up buying two paintings and now they sit in her room waiting to be hung up. I thought it was a great memory from her trip to Florence. She’s now convinced by the way that she wants to go to college in Florence. So I said well, you better get rolling on the Italian lessons.

We hit a few more restaurants and walked a lot more then took the tram back to our hotel. In the morning we left our bags with the front desk and took the tram again back to the city and had breakfast al fresco. There are definitely worse places to have breakfast than to have the Brunelesci’s dome in the background. My daughter had not had a chance to go back to school shopping so we went to some of the shops we saw and bought some back to school clothes. How is that for first day of school clothes? We also bought some handbags for me and some nice lingerie. I got three really nice bras for only $90 so I think I’m just going to go back to Florence with some empty suitcases. I hope she goes to school there so I have an excuse to go shopping.

Checking Out Some Colleges in Florence, Italy

After that we went outa nearby design college. The outside wasn’t much but we got to check out the area where the school was. It was a little outside the old, touristy part of town. But the best part was this amazing school housing space right next store. It’s like a WeWork for students and it has a courtyard and pool, and cafeteria and a beautiful bike room. The kids all get bikes when they take up a room. The place was run by a company out of the Netherlands and they just expanded into Florence, so it was brand new. Morgan was intrigued. Of course she was embarrassed when I dragged her in but I said look, we’re not going to be back here anytime soon so we should check it out while we’re here. So we asked the lady some questions and she let us look around. We took a brochure and I’m definitely putting this on our list. I would very much like it if she went to Florence for college, but just not sure they have a lot of programs taught in English. At least definitely taking some classes in the summer would be a good thing.

While we think the college that we had gone to look at may have closed down after Covid, there are plenty of other design programs in the city.

We had lunch, went back and got our bags and then got a cab to the Florence train station. I was a little worried about how it would be at the train station since I read a bunch of reviews saying it was a bit intense and confusing. When I got there I thought it was cute. Then I reminded myself that I live ten minutes from grand central station and that not everyone who writes travel reviews on TripAdvisor comes from where I come from. So there’s nothing to worry about in the Florence train station. Or the one in Rome for that matter. We bought our tickets and on the high speed train to Venice.

Hi speed trains in Europe are just awesome I must say. We took a train that went over 200 miles an hour up to Venice and it was complete luxury. Great, big, wide seats, plenty of table top space, plugs to charge your stuff and they come around with food. Also plenty of places to put your bags. I wish we had trains like this all over the US. The Acela to Boston is as close as you get but it doesn’t go 200 miles an hour or make you think you are on a private plane. My daughter loved taking these trains and I know she’ll remember it. It’s really fun to turn on Google maps and the train wifi and watch how fast you are moving and passing towns.

So if you are thinking of visiting Italy, you really need to stop in Florence. It’s a slightly calmer, more manageable city than Rome but just as beautiful. I’d honestly feel better if my daughter was going to school in Florence rather than Rome. All the cities are great, but Florence is just clean and bright and easy-paced. Make sure you bring extra room in your suitcases because out of all the cities we went I found the best bargains there. And oh my God the leather handbags. So gorgeous. I could have brought the whole market home. I got a beautiful patent leather handbag that doubles as a backpack that I’ve gotten tons of compliments on already. For $40! I can’t even imagine what this would be in the states and it’s just as good as anything I’ve seen on 5th ave. So plan on shopping and eating. And bring good walking shoes. I think when I stay again I will do the same thing with the tram. The prices for the hotels were great and we didn’t have to be those people dragging rolling suitcases across the cobblestone in the city. Just make sure the hotel is close to the Tram. In addition, the tram will take you straight to the airport if that’s your next stop. It also brings you straight to the train station if you plan on going elsewhere in Italy. Have fun!

adventure parent eating breakfast in italy
having breakfast in the plaza in Florence Italy right outside the tram station.
Hanging out in the morning in Florence Italy
Breakfast Florentine style
The school we’re going to check out for graphic design in florence
the lobby of the really great student dorm we found in Florence Italy
The hallway of the really neat student dorm in Florence Italy
An amazing Farm to Table Restaurant outside of the Ponte Vecchio
The view of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy
Summer Travel, Travel

Just Because You Have Kids Doesn’t Mean Your Adventurous Life Has to Stop

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Just because you have kids doesn't mean you can't be adventurous anymore.

You’ve spent much of your early life traveling and being adventurous. But now you’ve settled down a bit and had a family. All those visions of traveling as a family together are now right at your doorstep.

Are you panicking a little? No worries. We all do that at first. However, families that travel together, really benefit from the quality family time and learning experiences.

So in your years before you had kids you got really good at knowing how to be an adult traveling. Now, as an adult traveling with a tiny human completely relying on you it can be intimidating. Some people think they need to just wait it out until their kids are grown. No way! 

Being a parent doesn’t mean you have to give up on being adventurous. While some aspects of your adventures might need to be adjusted to accommodate your child’s needs and safety, there are still plenty of ways to have exciting experiences as a family.

Ideas on How to Take The Kids on Fun Adventures

Here are some tips on how a parent can still be adventurous with a child:

Family-friendly adventures: Choose activities that are suitable for all family members. Hiking, nature walks, picnics, and visiting child-friendly attractions can be enjoyable for both parents and children.

Travel with kids: Explore family-friendly travel destinations that offer a mix of fun activities for both parents and children. Consider destinations with kid-friendly attractions, parks, and nature reserves.

Outdoor activities: Engage in outdoor activities that are safe and suitable for children, such as camping, fishing, biking, or playing sports together.

Adventure within your community: You don’t always need to go far to have an adventure. Explore local parks, museums, festivals, and events that offer unique experiences for the whole family.

Adventurous storytelling: Encourage your child’s imagination and creativity through adventurous storytelling or reading adventure-themed books together.

Teach and learn together: Involve your child in learning about nature, wildlife, or history during your adventures. It can be a fun and educational experience for both of you.

Safety first: Prioritize safety during your adventures. Plan and prepare adequately, especially when trying new activities with your child.

Embrace spontaneity: Be open to embracing spontaneous moments during your adventures, which can lead to unexpected and delightful experiences.

Set a positive example: Demonstrate your own enthusiasm for exploration and adventure, as your child often follows your lead and enthusiasm.

Balance and flexibility: Find a balance between adventurous activities and family responsibilities. Be flexible with your plans to accommodate your child’s needs and moods.

Remember, being adventurous as a parent doesn’t have to be extreme or risky. It’s about exploring new experiences together, fostering a sense of wonder, and creating lasting memories as a family. Your child’s presence can add a new dimension of joy and discovery to your adventures, making them even more special and meaningful.

How To, Parenting, Summer Adventure, Summer Travel, Travel

The “Be Nice” Algorithm

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Being nice doesn’t always come naturally, especially to other kids that your kids run into. This can be on the playground, park or out on the hiking or ski trails.

However, just because others aren’t so nice, doesn’t mean your kids, or you for that matter, don’t need to invest in being nice. To help you out we’ve put together an algorithm for how to be nice. Follow this and your life will improve at work, out on the hiking trail, in line at the waterpark, and at the deli counter.

eing a nice person is not something that can be precisely quantified with a mathematical equation. However, we can metaphorically express the qualities and behaviors that contribute to being a nice person as follows:

Being a Nice Person = (Empathy + Kindness + Respect) ÷ (Judgment + Selfishness)

Here’s what each component of the metaphorical equation represents:

  1. Empathy: Practice putting yourself in others’ shoes, understanding their feelings, and showing compassion and concern for their well-being.
  2. Kindness: Be considerate and thoughtful in your interactions with others. Small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in people’s lives.
  3. Respect: Treat others with respect and dignity, valuing their individuality and showing regard for their thoughts and feelings.
  4. Judgment: Avoid being judgmental and critical of others. Instead, focus on understanding and supporting them.
  5. Selfishness: Be willing to put others’ needs and interests before your own sometimes. Selflessness and generosity are key components of being a nice person.

Remember that being a nice person is a continuous process, and nobody is perfect. It’s about making a conscious effort to treat others well and contribute positively to the world around you. Embrace these qualities, and strive to cultivate empathy, kindness, and respect in your daily interactions with others. Over time, these behaviors will become part of your character, and you’ll contribute to creating a more positive and compassionate community.

Summer Adventure, Travel

Great Places in South Carolina to Go Horse-Back Riding with the Family.

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If your family likes horse back riding or trail riding, consider taking them to South Carolina.

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant natural beauty, South Carolina offers a plethora of horse riding trails for equestrian enthusiasts. From coastal plains to rolling mountains, this southeastern state is a paradise for riders seeking adventure and connection with nature. In this article, we will explore the twenty best horse riding trails in South Carolina, each offering unique experiences and picturesque views.

Hitchcock Woods, Aiken

Located in the heart of Aiken, Hitchcock Woods boasts over 2,000 acres of lush woodlands and winding trails. This urban oasis is perfect for riders of all skill levels, offering a peaceful retreat within the city limits.

Fants Grove, Clemson

Situated near Lake Hartwell, Fants Grove offers a network of trails that wind through dense forests, scenic meadows, and serene lakeshores. The diverse terrain provides riders with an unforgettable experience.

Francis Marion National Forest, Awendaw

Covering a staggering 259,000 acres, the Francis Marion National Forest features extensive trails for horseback riding. Riders can explore the forest’s abundant wildlife and discover hidden gems along the way.

Manchester State Forest, Wedgefield

With over 28 miles of well-maintained trails, Manchester State Forest offers a variety of routes for riders to explore. The forest’s beautiful landscapes, including longleaf pine forests and pristine ponds, make it a true equestrian paradise.

Harbison State Forest, Columbia

Conveniently located near the capital city, Harbison State Forest provides riders with a diverse range of trails, including wooded paths and open fields. The forest also features equestrian camping facilities for those looking for a multi-day adventure.

Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Paris Mountain State Park offers breathtaking views and miles of scenic trails. Riders can explore the park’s shimmering lakes, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests.

Croft State Park, Spartanburg

Encompassing over 7,000 acres, Croft State Park is a haven for horseback riders. The park boasts an extensive trail system, providing access to rolling hills, open meadows, and tranquil lakes.

Harriet’s Bluff Trail, Awendaw

Located in the heart of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, Harriet’s Bluff Trail offers riders the opportunity to explore the pristine coastal marshes and witness an array of bird species in their natural habitat.

Congaree National Park, Hopkins

For riders seeking a unique experience, Congaree National Park offers scenic trails that meander through old-growth bottomland hardwood forests. Riders can marvel at the park’s towering trees and abundant wildlife.

Lee State Park, Bishopville

With over 20 miles of equestrian trails, Lee State Park provides riders with a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of South Carolina. The park’s trails wind through pine forests, cypress swamps, and picturesque meadows.

Hitchcock Woods Nature Preserve, Aiken

Adjacent to Hitchcock Woods, the Hitchcock Woods Nature Preserve features additional trails for riders to explore. This tranquil preserve offers a peaceful escape and the opportunity to spot native wildlife.

Sand Hills State Forest, Patrick

Featuring over 28 miles of equestrian trails, Sand Hills State Forest is a hidden gem in South Carolina’s Pee Dee region. Riders can traverse through rolling sandhills, pine forests, and scenic overlooks.

Woods Ferry Recreation Area, Carlisle

Located near the Broad River, the Woods Ferry Recreation Area offers riders a chance to traverse diverse landscapes

Ski & Snowboard, Things to Do, Winter Adventure, Winter Travel

Take the Kids Skiing this Winter

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Best Vacation Spots to Take the Kids Skiing

I didn’t learn to ski until I was 19 and that was only because I had a few friends who dragged me along. But as soon as I hit the slopes I was hooked. Within a few years I had a job at a local mountaSki alta for a ski adventure with your family this winterin ski school and I was teaching little kids how to ski.

I vowed then that when I had a kid I was going to teach her early. That’s exactly what I did. I love taking your offspring skiing with you. There’s nothing better than spending a day out in the great outdoors in something as pure and wonderful as a ski resort setting. Granted you may not be able to hit all the hills you want and have to come in a lot more often, but it pays off.  There’s something satisfying about passing the love of skiing on to the next generation. Taking the kids skiing when they are little also ensures a way to connect with your kids long into adulthood. So get those skis waxed because there are some great family friendly ski destinations to be had.

Mammoth

Located in the southwest corner of the volcanic Long Valley Caldera on the eastern edge of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range; Mammoth Mountain reaches over 3,500 skiable acres and a 3,100ft vertical drop.

The mountain is blessed with over 400 inches of snowfall a year and it’s the highest elevation in California at a neck-bending height of 11,053ft.

The modern resort has world class terrain options, and an ski season that can sometimes last into July.

Ski at Alta

 

Alta is one of the oldest ski areas in the United States and has been running the lifts since 1939. Sorry snowboarders, Alta Ski Area restricts access to skiers only.

Located only about a mile up the road from Snowbird in the Little Cottonwood Canyon, Alta Ski Area features 2,200 acres of prime skiable terrain with average snowfalls each season of 560 inches.

Alta Ski Area is renowned for having excellent snowfall combined with some of the most diverse and challenging terrain in North America.

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Breckenridge, Co

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for Colorado vacations with kids who are looking to experience a fun Colorado family vacation in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. There are tons of activities and restaurants on and off the mountain and lots of options of where to stay.

 

Parents can also watch their kids excel on the hill after a day of lessons at their world renowned ski school. Adult, Child, and Private Lessons are available for all family members.

Need a break from skiing? Take the kids ice skating, sleigh rides  or snowmobiling. You can even enjoy a ride on Breckenridge alpine slide or just relax in the historic Town of Breckenridge.

When fortune seekers flocked to Breckridge back in the 1800s little did they know they found something better, the perfect ski mountain town.

 

Taos New Mexico

Taos Ski Valley is located in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains in Northern New Mexico, with access to 1,294 acres of skiable terrain, and receiving an average 300 inches of snowfall annually. The ski area has a great mix of terrain combined with a distinctive mix of European, local Native American and Spanish cultures. It’s also  home to one of the country’s highest rated ski schools.

Telluride

Nestled in the southwest corner of Colorado, 100 miles from the nearest stoplight, Telluride encompasses 2,000 acres of lift-accessible terrain. Once dubbed “To-Hell-You-Ride” from its mining town days, Telluride is now a chic,  modern town.

Telluride Ski Resort boasts some of the steepest, deepest and most diverse terrain of any ski resort in North America.

Stowe Mountain, Vermont

Stowe Mountain resort is just totally lux and I got very used to having the ski valets run up to me at the end of my run and grab my skis, tag them and whisk them away to storage. The next morning they were magically waiting for me. At $400 a night the rooms were not cheap, but the views were stellar, the restaurant food superb, and the spa was ultra relaxing. Our in-room fireplace made it the perfect evening with a blustery snow storm just outside.

Stowe Mountain Resort, is the definition of the luxury Eastern resort, and provides quality skiing and riding for all levels of family abilities. The area’s lift system includes a gondola to shuttle guests between Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, and its “sister” mountain, Spruce Peak.

Mt. Mansfield  gets 333 inches of average annual snowfall that falls over it’s 2,360 foot vertical drop and 485 acres of skiable terrain.

The Stowe Mountain Lodge, located in the base village, is a 312 room luxury hotel and spa that has been recognized as one of the greenest, most sustainable luxury hotels in the world.

About

I’m an Adventure Parent

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Hi, so it’s been a few years while life got in the way and I paused my work on AdventureParent. But I’m back now. I’ve spent a lot of years traveling with my daughter, going on all kinds of adventures and pushing her out the door to go on her own with her friends. Even though my daughter’s a little older now, I’ve realized that I’m really good at this taking kids on adventures thing. And I want to share everything I’ve learned, and still learning so that you can cherish this time with your children. 

Travel is the Best Teacher

I can’t tell you how glad I am that I made the effort to take my daughter around traveling whenver I could. 

2014-07-07 18.01.41And here’s me with my favorite adventure buddy when I first started this blog. There were earlier versions, but we won’t count those. I learn from her every day and hope she looks back on all the fun we’ve had and pay it forward. This was taken on her first day of Sports camp at Chelsea Piers. And here she is now, on the Spanish Steps with me in Rome

My daughter and I at the Spanish Steps in Rome Italy
Morgan and me standing at the base of the Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy, August 2019

I played Women’s Rugby in England and the US.  I’ve been dogsledding in Quebec. I’ve toured all the major castles in Wales, traveled all over France, England, Ireland and Scotland. I’ve donned a survival suit and zipped around in Zodiacs on the St. Lawrence just to get up close and personal with Blue Whales. And don’t think I just like sports.  I trekked to Trinity College Dublin just to see the Book of Kells, I climbed every duomo I could climb in Italy, I’ve laid on the floor of the Sistine Chapel and looked up, I’ve visited Juliet’s balcony and had pints at the Dirty Duck in Stratford upon Avon, the big man’s home town (twice), I’ve visited the classrooms of the Jason Project in Belize and am a frequent visitor to the Museum of Natural History in New York City. Oddly, I was obsessed with Ancient Egyptian and Greek mythology, yet I haven’t been to those places, but they are on my bucket list. I had dragged my husband along with me on travels, mostly mountain biking to Moab, camping in the Grand Canyon, biking the old Creeper Trail in Virginia, scuba diving in Belize, and more.

And Then We Had Kids

In 2004 I had my daughter. I had planned on doing all the kinds of things I had done before, with her and my husband. But the reality of taking a wee little thing on these crazy adventures scared me a little. Other things in life happened. I gained a little weight, my marriage fizzled, went through a hairy divorce, and the result was me putting my adventurous side  in a deep freeze. But then one day I got sick of it. I missed the old me and snapped out of whatever funk I had been in. I dusted off my bike and I starting doing a lot more of it, getting the old me back every step of the way.  The same went for skiing.

So I started to introduce adventure back into my life and this time I’m bringing my daughter along with me. I took her whitewater rafting. I taught her how to ski. I taught her how to ride a bike, rollerblade, kayak, took her surfing, scuba diving, and ran her around on her first wavejammer. We even took kickboxing together. Now I’m an adventurous parent again. And I want to squeeze every inch out of the health and vitality I have left in me before it’s gone.

Passing Along the Travel Bug

I also want to teach my daughter that this is how it’s done. I like to go with people on my adventures but when I can’t find anyone, I just go it alone. And most importantly, I let my daughter know it’s perfectly normal for a girl to want to do all these things. I had wanted to start this website for a long time because I often found it hard to find good stuff to do for parents who wanted to do a little bit more than gymboree or the local swimming pool with their kids. 

I live on the Upper East Side of New York City, where that’s an adventure in itself. I’d love to hear your ideas for adventure and what kind of articles you’d like to read more about. Look for anything adventure-related, whether it be mind, body or both. Life is an adventure, so don’t be afraid to get out there and set an example for your kids. Life is what you make of it.