Gretchen
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Nebraska: Big Skies, Hidden Gems & Unexpected Beauty
Nebraska is one of those states that often gets overlooked — and honestly, I used to think of it as just a place you pass through on the way somewhere else. But the more I’ve learned about Nebraska, the more I realize it’s a destination full of wide-open beauty, history, and unique experiences that make…
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Kansas: Wide Open Spaces & Unexpected Discoveries
Kansas is one of those states that many people drive through — but not always stop to explore. I haven’t had the opportunity to visit yet, but the more I’ve learned about Kansas, the more I realize it offers a quiet kind of beauty — the kind that doesn’t shout for attention, but instead invites…
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Traveling on a Budget: What Has Worked for Our Family
Travel doesn’t have to break the bank. Over the years, we’ve learned that a great trip isn’t about how much you spend — it’s about how you plan, prioritize, and prepare. Some of our best trips have also been some of our most budget-friendly ones. Here are some of the budget travel tips that…
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West Virginia: Wild, Wonderful & Full of Adventure
West Virginia is one of those places that seems to quietly hold so much beauty. I haven’t had the chance to visit yet, but the more I learn about it, the more it feels like one of those destinations that would surprise you in the best way. Between the mountains, rivers, history, and small-town charm,…
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Nevada: More Than Just the Strip
When we think about Nevada, most people immediately think of one place — Las Vegas. And honestly, that’s where our experience started too. We visited Las Vegas as a couple, and I’ll say it — we had a blast. Las Vegas: Late Nights & Unexpected Fun Our trip to Vegas was one of those trips…
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Traveling and Vaccines: Do Your Research Before You Go
One thing we always try to do before traveling is research — and then research some more. That usually includes things like excursions, weather, packing lists, and local food. But another important part of planning a trip is checking health recommendations for where you’re going. For our upcoming trip, my husband took the lead on…
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Oregon: Where Nature Feels Bigger Than Life
Oregon is one of those states that looks absolutely breathtaking every time I see photos or hear someone talk about visiting. I haven’t yet had the pleasure of traveling there myself, but it’s definitely a destination that keeps moving higher on my travel list. From rugged coastlines and towering forests to vibrant cities and stunning…
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Minnesota: Cool Summers, City Walks & More Than 10,000 Lakes
Minnesota surprised me in the best way. I traveled to Minneapolis for a work conference, and my husband and kids were able to tag along. Back home, it was over 100 degrees and humid, but in Minnesota? The weather was cool and absolutely perfect. It felt like a breath of fresh air — literally. Minneapolis:…
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Gatlinburg: The Place We Didn’t Love… Until We Did
Gatlinburg wasn’t love at first sight for us. Years ago, when my oldest boys were just 2 and 4, we planned to meet my mom and grandparents in Chattanooga for a family trip. At the last minute, my little family of four decided to leave a few days early and spend some time in Gatlinburg.…