An art installation of a metal face insect of a red metal box stands tall, next to the Congolese flag. This is at Académie des Beaux-Arts de Kinshasa, an art school in the DRC. There are trees and greenery in the background of this cloudy day.
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Inside Académie des Beaux-Arts de Kinshasa: A Celebration of Creativity

Kinshasa, the busy capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is known for its dynamic culture & rich history. Académie des Beaux-Arts de Kinshasa is an important part of Congolese arts & culture and is known for teaching local artists. When I had the chance to take a tour of the Académie des Beaux-Arts de…

A burned out car is on the side of the road in Kinshasa, DRC. It is next to a tall blue metal fence and a person walks by with a basket of food on their head. This encapsulates the realities of Kinshasa poverty

Kinshasa Poverty: Bearing Witness to the City’s Struggles and Strengths

I’ve been struggling emotionally lately, as living in Kinshasa, Congo has been truly mind boggling. For moments, I’ll forget I’m living in one of the world’s poorest countries and then I’ll step outside to see the most dire poverty I’ve ever witnessed. I saw an IG post that said, “I am not sure my tiny…

A young boy sits next to a woman at the National Museum of the American Indian. They watch a singer and drummer perform.
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Why the National Museum of the American Indian is One of the Best Kid Friendly Museums in DC

Washington DC is packed with incredible museums, but the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) stands out as one of the best kid friendly museums in DC. It is a unique and enriching experience for museum goers of all ages, and especially for families with young children. With its stunning architecture, hands-on play…

A young boy looks up a rainbow art installation at the Renwick Gallery in Washington DC. There are many colors in a wavy art installation on the ceiling. This Smithsonian museum is a great one to visit with kids.
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Renwick Gallery with Kids: A Washington DC Hidden Gem

Washington DC, offers a wealth of cultural and artistic experiences and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum stands out as a hidden gem for families. Located just steps from the White House, this small yet captivating museum specializes in contemporary craft and decorative arts. It is smaller in size than many of…

A young boy in a long sleeve black shirt points at a display of rainbow colored gems and minerals at the Natural History Museum in DC. This is a great stop for kid friendly Washington DC trips

Smithsonian Natural History Museum With Young Kids: What To See And What To Skip

As a parent living in the DMV, I’ve had the privilege (and sometimes the challenge!) of exploring the Smithsonian Natural History Museum with young kids many times. There’s so much to see in DC and at this museum that it can feel overwhelming, especially when you may only have a few hours to explore. But…

A young boy walking on the grassy lawn near the Washington Monument on a bright, sunny day, with American flags encircling the base. Perfectly captures a family vacation in Washington, D.C., with the iconic obelisk towering against a clear blue sky.

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Washington DC with Kids

Washington DC is one of the most family-friendly cities in the United States. Visiting Washington DC with kids should be at the top of your travel list as it is rich with history, filled with incredible restaurants, and kid-friendly activities and museums. Did I mention all the Smithsonian museums are free? I lived in the…

Many seagulls swarm the beach looking for crumbs. A young boy stands beneath the seagulls at sunset on the beach. This is at Colonial Beach, a short drive from northern va.
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A Family-Friendly Colonial Beach Day Trip

Nestled along the Potomac River in Virginia’s Northern Neck region, Colonial Beach is a charming town perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. With its scenic beach, quaint downtown, charming golf carts everywhere, and proximity to outdoor adventures, a Colonial Beach day trip offers something for everyone. While our family was living in Northern…

11 shark teeth are held in a hand. The shark teeth have varying shapes and sizes. These were found at Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach.
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Discover Shark Teeth at Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach

If your family loves fossils or simply enjoys unique outdoor adventures, Westmoreland State Park fossil beach should be at the top of your list. Nestled along the Potomac River in Virginia, this hidden gem offers something for everyone, from scenic hiking trails to camping to the thrill of uncovering fossilized shark teeth. My kids and…

A man holds up a smiling baby in the air at a playground. There are trees in the background on a sunny day. This moment happened was possible due to multigenerational family vacations.

Mastering Multigenerational Family Vacations: 13 Tips for a Stress Free Trip

Multigenerational family vacations can be magical opportunities to bond. However, balancing the needs and preferences of a diverse group requires thoughtful preparation. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of living in or visiting 40 countries, some solo, some with friends, some with family. Now, as a mom of two young children, travel looks a…

A young boy in a striped t-shirt and barefoot stops to smell bright yellow and red flowers. This is a benefit of slow family travel, to stop and take the time to follow your child's lead.
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The Magic of Slow Travel Family Trips

In our fast-paced society, the idea of slowing down can feel counterintuitive—especially when it comes to travel. With limited vacation days, it’s easy to want to create a packed itinerary for your next family vacation. I’ve been there and have often crammed way too much into a short time, making our vacations anything but relaxing….