Homeschooling, Running & Biking Adventures
Last weekend we packed up the camper van and headed out for a few days with some friends. It had been a while since our last trip, but the moment we pulled in and set up camp, I remembered why I love it so much—spending all day outdoors. I love our camper van, quirks and all. And … Continue reading The Closest Thing to an Off Switch
There comes a moment in every mom’s life when she wonders: Is there a cooler way to get from point A to point B while carrying three children, snacks, a water bottle I’ll forget, and a questionable collection of rocks someone insisted we bring home from the park? For me, that moment arrived with the … Continue reading My Minivan Has Two Wheels and an E-Motor: Meet the Specialized Haul LT
We knew the day we bought our house that the kitchen needed some love. Built in 1980, it had stayed mostly untouched ever since. That’s not that old—older than us—but it showed. The bones were solid, but the space had been designed for an older gentleman who lived here until he was over 100 (which is impressive … Continue reading Designing Our Dream Kitchen: Part 1 of Our Remodel Journey
A little life update on what we’re reading, what bedtime looks like with three kids, and how we’re settling back into our rhythm after a much-needed break (and a finished kitchen remodel!).
Our girl turned 7! (Technically not yet, but we surprised her early.) She woke up to banners, a unicorn cake, and one very special present—earrings. That’s right, it was EARS PIERCING DAY. She was so brave. One earring in and she didn’t even realize it happened. “Wait, what was that part?” she asked, blinking in … Continue reading Nebraska Trip: A Vacation Series | Day 5: Birthday Surprise
So, “roads.” I use that term loosely. These were more like ideas of roads. After a good rain, they turned into slip-and-slide obstacle courses. We woke up to gray skies and goopy trails, but also a good excuse for art projects and extra coffee. We knocked out some morning chores and then broke out the … Continue reading Nebraska Trip: A Vacation Series | Day 4: Sloppy Roads
I knew the remodel would be disruptive. I knew we’d basically lose access to our upstairs — the main living area and our bedroom. I knew it would be dusty and loud and a lot of work. I designed the whole kitchen and bathrooms myself, so even before construction started, it was a mental marathon. … Continue reading How We’re Adjusting Homeschooling During a Remodel
Growing up, my mom had a sign in our bathroom that said, 'Our home is clean enough to be healthy and messy enough to be happy.' That phrase has stuck with me, and it’s a pretty good description of what I’m aiming for now. I would love to embrace more of a minimalist lifestyle, but … Continue reading Our Attempt at Minimalism
In our homeschool, English is a blend of structured curriculum and organic learning moments throughout the day. We use The Good and the Beautiful for both English and handwriting. I love the simplicity and depth of these programs, and they work well for my kids. Alongside this, I’ve created my own copy work practice that … Continue reading Our English Curriculum
I found my first gray hair this week. Mid-vacation.... Of course, it wasn’t just one. It was three. Does that mean I’m officially over the hill? Or is it just one gray hair per kid at this point? Either way, I guess it’s time to face the music: I’m not defying aging. Not even close. … Continue reading Gray Hair and Bucket lists
It started with a Christmas promise: a trip to LEGOland and the Wild Animal Park (okay, Safari Park—but I’ll always call it the Wild Animal Park). We decided to wrap it around my husband’s big bike race, the Belgium Waffle Ride—yes, there were waffles, no, it wasn’t in Belgium—and turn it into a full-blown family … Continue reading Our First Big “theme park” Family Vacation: Nine Days, One Van, Zero Regrets
Day 6 took us to the Wild Animal Park, and we were all incredibly excited to be there. It’s one of those places that promises adventure and unique animal encounters. But, I’ll admit, I should’ve planned this a little better. The size of the park was definitely overwhelming for my kids, and while the adults … Continue reading Vacation Day 6: Wild Animal Park – A Beautiful Day, But Maybe a Bit Too Much
Day 5 at LEGOland was magical, with minimal crowds, allowing for quick access to ALL the rides.
In December, we planned a trip to LEGOland, coinciding with my husband's bike race. We invited our neighbors and both sets of grandparents, making it our kids first major vacation that wasn't camping related. After a 12-hour drive, we arrived at our Airbnb, which exceeded expectations, and our adventure was just beginning. Day 2 awaits ahead.
How we embrace technology intentionally, balancing tech use with unplugged activities. We utilize audiobooks, texting for typing practice, and educational platforms like PBS Kids and Khan Academy. The kids engage in creative projects, such as vlogging, blending learning with fun. Technology serves as a valuable tool, enhancing our homeschooling experience.
Discussing the challenges of training for a marathon while homeschooling three children, emphasizing the importance of planning and flexibility. Mornings and afternoons are opportunities for workouts, often interrupted by family life. This integration of fitness and family teaches kids about persistence and strength, showcasing that life doesn’t need to be perfect to be fulfilling.
Reflecting on our homeschooling journey, transitioning from a rigid structure to a focus on connection and curiosity. Initially striving for perfection, we learned that spontaneity, relationships, and mastery are more valuable than adherence to a schedule. Homeschooling has evolved into a lifestyle prioritizing wonder, rest, and lifelong learning.
Homeschooling has allowed our family to align our learning with the seasons, highlighting nature as our primary curriculum. Spring brings discovery, summer emphasizes immersion in play, fall craves structure, and winter invites stillness. This approach fosters curiosity and connection, demonstrating that learning often occurs in unstructured, everyday moments, embracing the world's rhythms.
Sharing my personal experiences of cycling during three pregnancies, emphasizing the importance of comfort and individual choice. Each pregnancy brought unique challenges, from biking comfort to towing toddlers. Practical tips include using an eBike, indoor riding, and listening to one's body. Ultimately, enjoyment and safety should guide decisions while biking during pregnancy.
It’s funny how society makes the term full-time mom or stay-at-home mom sound so…empty. Like I’m just here, passing the time, twiddling my thumbs while my kids raise themselves. Yet in the same breath, I feel so incredibly thankful and privileged to be home with them. To not only be their mom but also their … Continue reading From Career to Chaos: The Reality of Becoming a Stay-at-Home Mom
Run Teach Bike 