Not Just a Blog

In 2004, my baby cousin (8 years my junior and approximately 12 years my senior in common sense) and I decided to conquer the South Island of New Zealand in a heroic vehicle best described as “a Japanese standard import with ambition.” It was the kind of car that hummed bravely at sea level and wheezed theatrically on hills. I was teaching her how to drive stick, which meant that every incline between Christchurch and eternity became a live-action trust exercise. “Clutch. Clu

Planning a family trip to Banff National Park with little ones in tow? The good news is that the Canadian Rockies can be an incredible destination for families with young children if you plan with flexibility, realistic expectations, and a little insider knowledge. According to PREMIER FAMILY TRAVEL GUIDE: BANFF NATIONAL PARK & THE CANADIAN ROCKIES by S.E.Linn, one of the biggest myths about Banff is that it’s only for hardcore hikers or adventurous adults. In reality, the re

In 2004, circling the spectacular south island of New Zealand, my baby cousin Shannon (eight years my junior and approximately zero years prepared for this chaos) and I were coughing along in a Japanese import that had clearly lived several previous lives. At the Christchurch car rental counter, a peppy young man delivered the news: “So sorry, mate! No automatics lift. Standard transmission okay?” Shannon shook her head doubtfully. I, sensing entertainment, nodded vigorously.