henry + marie’s “woodland” room

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I hadn’t planned to photograph their room here in the Poconos, but when we started to pack it hit me that this would be their last shared room (cue the ugly mama waterworks). Of course this room is just borrowed – all I did was add our accessories – most of the credit goes to my good friend Chanee Vijay. They’ve been sharing this room for many years whenever we stay here, but since we moved in for a year we were able to personalize it a bit more. Our new house finally affords them their own rooms, which is a luxury that they haven’t yet known. While I’m excited for them and know it’s time (they’ll be nine this summer), it’s the end of an era for them (and us) and I’m feeling emotional about it. I can’t help but reminisce about their nursery in our first house, their toddler room transformation (oops never shared that), and their “wild” room in our loft. They’ve been the best roommates a parent could hope for, and it’s helped to bond them forever.

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signs of sanctuary

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One year ago today we took sanctuary here, and as we prepare to emerge from the woods (both literally and metaphorically), the feelings have come at me like a wrecking ball. I know I’m not alone, and while it’s easy to become fatigued by the “anniversary” posts, there’s a valid reason why there are so many. We’ve experienced a collective trauma–some much more than others. We’re among the lucky ones…we haven’t lost any family members, we have our health, financial security, and so much love. Our privilege, however, does not exempt us from the darkness. While we’re seeing the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel, I’m approaching it hesitantly…not allowing myself to feel comfort just yet.

One year ago today, my (very Irish) grandfather came to me in a dream and took me to the end of a rainbow…it helped make the road ahead feel safer, despite the uncertainty. I’ll never forget those feelings – equal parts wonder and fear. Perhaps that mixture isn’t a recipe to hide from, but one to embrace. Stepping into a new chapter with such a cocktail of emotion requires courage, but that bravery is usually rewarded with amazing and unexpected results (we’ve been down this road before). On our last visit to our new home, we spotted a triple rainbow reflection on the bathroom counter. Call it coincidence, call it the luck of the Irish…call it a sign. I followed a rainbow into the woods, so I’ll follow one out too.

the freedom trail with kids

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We took this quick trip to Boston in February of 2020, just before the pandemic became very scary here in the states (and before lockdown in late March). Over one year later and I’m still struggling to process how drastically our lives have changed along with everyone else, but I finally feel like I can share this trip. While travel is still not a possibility for most people, perhaps this will help to inspire some family-friendly trip planning, and in the meantime, you can virtually tour many of the sites! We (actually I–my husband was at a work conference) managed the entire Freedom Trail – most of it in one day, with two 7-year-olds (we only missed two sites). I’m a history buff (plus my father was born in Boston), so I enjoyed it for so many reasons. The kids said it felt like a treasure hunt, and it truly is – there is so much to discover along the trail. I’m sharing our full itinerary below, and you’ll find video and more here in my Massachusetts highlights!

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snow days are the best days

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Snow days are the best days…especially in our family! I’ve been quiet here on the blog (although active on social), as we’ve been savoring the season. I grew up in the Northeast and so many of my childhood memories are connected to the fluffy white stuff that falls from the sky and turns the world into a magical wonderland. My parents used to have to literally drag me inside after hours in the snow with a chapped face, nearly blue lips, and snow-filled boots. After a few decent winter storms, the “big one” came along a few weeks ago here in the Poconos, and gifted us with over thirty inches (yes, 30″). It started the day before and then got super heavy overnight…we woke up in Narnia and it was breathtakingly beautiful…

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first but not the last

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Today was emotional for so many reasons, but holding my daughter as the first female Vice President was sworn into office was the highlight. I cried tears of joy as Kamala Harris took the oath of office, and held onto both of my children tighter than ever. I feel hopeful for their future today, and I’m going to hold onto that feeling as long as possible. Marie is wearing the K is for Kamala t-shirt, and holding a printable pennant by Tina Green. I’m so proud that she understands the significance of this day and shares the joy – look at that smile! What a joyous day for us all…now the year can truly begin.