Travel

That’s what I want for my family. I want them to tell their kids about swimming with dolphins in Jamaica, collecting sharks’ teeth on the beach in North Carolina … and the time raccoons got into our coolers when we were tenting in the Porcupine Mountains.

I have this idyllic notion in my head of camping with my family. We are all sitting around a crackling campfire, cozy in our matching flannels. I cook a Pinterest-worthy meal over the open flame while the girls dance around the campsite catching fireflies.

With these simple camping safety hacks, you will be back and running through the sprinkler in no time.

I was lucky as a child to grow up near Lake Michigan. My brother and I spent many a Summer day building sand castles and swimming in the usually chilly (but fun) water. Now, as an adult, I realize how amazing it is to live in an area that has so much beachfrontage, and it makes me appreciate our state that much more!

One of my goals when I had children was to pass the love of travel and exploration to them. Little did I realize when I made that goal, traveling on an airplane with a child is not always easy. Three years later, I’ve tested ways to make travel easier.

My husband and I decided to take a trip to Duluth, MN, for New Year's to visit family. After five hours of driving, we made it to the hotel.

Set your expectations low. They are toddlers, and their goal in life is to test their limits. Remember – Kids need almost nothing to be happy.  Leave the electronics at home, let them play in the dirt, let them dig worms and count trees, and help them foster those imaginations!

But don’t assume all roads lead to Destination Disaster. By planning and keeping expectations in check, a road trip can be a sure route to cherished family memories.

Summers don’t last long in Wisconsin. So, don’t let this summer pass you by! Here are six family-friendly destinations to consider.

Let's start having fun by adventuring this year! Taking adventures can pull us out of our comfort zones and stretch our learning.