Jody L Halsted

Many thanks to Dr. Jessie Voigts for this delicious look at Irish cuisine!  Dr. Jessie Voigts holds a PhD in International Education, focusing on intercultural adjustment for sojourns abroad and acquired disabilities. She co-authored the book ‘Bringing the World Home: A Resource Guide to Raising Intercultural Kids’, publishes WanderingEducators.com, the online resource for global educators, and recently founded the Family Travel Blogger Association.

On the Ring of Kerry, that is…

Often when we were driving in Ireland, we’d be hungry and want to stop. A few dry as toast roast & potato experiences taught us that pubs weren’t the best location for gourmet dining (excepting the seafood chowder, which was always good). Luckily, scattered throughout Ireland are some spots of fresh, local cuisine – at Avoca.

Avoca is a family-run business with ten different locations across Ireland.  Avoca started from a handweaving mill established over 280 years ago, and is now a gorgeous shop, café, and source of beautiful textiles (and gifts!).  The Mill at Avoca Village (County Wicklow) was started as a co-op for farmers to spin and weave their wool. By 1960, the looms were mostly silent, until Donald and Hilary Pratt bought the mill in 1974. This turned around the mill, as Avoca began to make a name for itself again. Now, Avoca is known almost as much for its cafes as for its gorgeous textiles. The cafes have won awards, publish cookbooks, and feed hungry customers by the droves.

We drove to Avoca in Moll’s Gap (it was recommended to us as a beacon of gourmet light on the Ring of Kerry) after a few meals in Ireland that did not live up to my expectations…I was hopeful. And indeed, Avoca lives up to its name and recipes.

The Avoca café in Moll’s Gap on the Ring of Kerry sits atop the shop, with a stunning view and plenty of fresh food. From fresh soups, salads, and gourmet deli items to amazing house-baked fresh bread – everything is delicious and a treat. Don’t forget the desserts – so many to choose from!

Kids will appreciate the bright colors and tasty dishes. Our daughter couldn’t decide between salmon and a fresh salad, so we got three entrees and split them. I think we all got the best of the bunch! Be sure to save room for dessert, and quaff plenty of chilled ice water with lemon or another beverage.

The cafes are clean, brightly lit, with incredible views. The plates and silverware are kid-friendly (nearly indestructible). The food is amazing. But best of all, the staff are extremely welcoming to kids – this more than anything, makes me put Avoca on our #1 place to eat in Ireland.

You can find Avoca shops and cafes at:

 Kilmacanogue Store, Cafes & HQ, Wicklow           

Suffolk Street, Dublin City Centre

Rathcoole, N7 Naas Road, Dublin             

The Mill at Avoca Village, Wicklow

Letterfrack, Connemara, Co Galway         

Moll’s Gap on the Ring of Kerry

Powerscourt House, Enniskerry, Wicklow              

Mount Usher Gardens, Ashford, Wicklow

Avoca Food Market and Salt Café, Monkstown, County Dublin

Belfast City Centre

Find out more at: http://www.avoca.ie/

A Dublin Pass can be an incredible deal- if you plan to spend a few days in Dublin.  But it could be a waste of money for some families.  Is it the best deal for your family vacation in Ireland?

What the Dublin Pass Includes

The Dublin Pass offers free admission into 32 of Dublin’s most popular attractions- including the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, the Dublin Zoo and the National Wax Museum.  It also offers gifts and discounts at many of Dublin’s already free attractions such as postcards & discounts at the National Museum of Ireland Archeology & History, free book and discounts at the Chester Beatty Library and a gift at the National Gallery of Ireland.

Some attractions offer “fast track” admissions to Dublin Pass holders and select local businesses offer discounts and complimentary items is you flash your Dublin Pass.  You will also receive a free guidebook with each Dublin Pass you purchase.  (The guidebook is really quite nice.  It is pocket sized and filled with colorful images- the kids will love it!)

If you don’t plan to pick up your car until after your time in Dublin the Dublin Pass also includes a one-way trip from the Dublin airport to the city center.

Buying a Dublin Pass

You will want to buy your Dublin Pass online before your trip to get the best deal.  You can choose to have it shipped to you- in which case order as soon as you know your travel dates- or you can arrange to pick it up at the Dublin airport or the Tourism Center on Suffolk St.  The Dublin Pass is valid for 12 months from date of purchase and begins to expire with first use.

The Dublin Pass can be purchased in 1, 2, 3 and 6 day durations; prices begin at €35 (appx $50) for adults and €19 (appx $27) for children.

If you know you won’t be driving in Dublin- and I really suggest you don’t; the public transport is wonderful- buy your tickets with your Dublin Pass to save money.  You can purchase a Rambler ticket for 1, 3 or 5 days or a 3 day Freedom Ticket which includes Hop On/ Hop Off buses.

Is a Dublin Pass Right for Your Family?

That will, of course, depend on what you plan to do in Dublin.  If you have only one day in Dublin- the day your flight lands- then I would say you won’t get your money’s worth.  But if you pair one of the cheap hotels in Dublin with a Dublin Pass for 2 or 3 days, you’ll enjoy everything the city has to offer without breaking your budget.

Here is a sample 2 day Dublin itinerary, created with 2 children under 10 in mind.

For about €10 more you get 72 hours of public transit, including hop on/ hop off buses, and discounts at restaurants and shops.  If this were my family’s plan I would purchase the Dublin Pass.  The restaurant savings and other offers would easily cover the 10 euro.

Have you used the Dublin Pass?  Would you recommend it?

All parents want to know ways to keep their most precious cargo safe while traveling by car. But how do those with children make sense of all the car seat safety suggestions and laws out there?

 Know the law and do your homework to see what other recommendations apply to your family before you take your tots for a spin. Specific car laws designed for child safety vary from state to state. You can visit www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/childsafety_laws.html for your state’s individual requirements; however, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are two laws that apply to most of the country:

1. All 50 states require some kind of child safety seat for infants and children. Check your state for specific laws and criteria.
2. All states except Arizona, Florida and South Dakota require booster seats or other form of safety seat for children who outgrow car seats but are too small to safely use adult seat belts.

 While these two child safety seat laws are by no means comprehensive, it gives parents and caregivers a good start when it comes to car and child safety. The NHTSA also offers suggestions on other ways to keep your children safe while traveling by car. These may not be laws, but are important tips to follow to keep your kids safe in the backseat.

• Choose a car seat that corresponds to your child’s age, height and weight.
• Keep your child in his or her car seat for as long as is recommended.
• Register your car seat so that you receive notifications of recalls or defects.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on proper car seat installation. If you’re not sure you’ve properly installed it, find your nearest car seat inspector location by visiting www.nhtsa.gov/cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm.
• Ensure children under 13 years old sit only in the backseat of the vehicle.

 Keeping your kids safe is no doubt your top priority. Understanding the car laws about child safety seats and following these five tips are a great way to help better protect your littlest passengers. Another way to keep your entire family safe on the road is to request an online auto insurance quote; this ensures you have the right insurance coverage for you and all the little ones in your safekeeping.

I’m a pretty avid travel blog reader.  I love reading where people go, how they go and why.  It fuels my wanderlust when I’m at home.  So when I read last week that The Good Traveler, Aric S. Queen, would be crossing the United States on a “Classic American Roadtrip” I was keen to follow along. 

The adventure begins this Monday, May 7th. Follow Aric’s journey on Intelligent Travel, Twitter @GoodTravelerNG and Instagram (@GoodTraveler) to get inspired, to be entertained, and to give him advice about what he should see and who he should meet as he blogs his way across America.

Being a proud, and rather outspoken, Midwesterner, I tweeted to Aric that he should definitely make Hampton, Iowa a stop on his route so he could meet Deb Brown (@debworks38383838).  Deb is a Franklin County native who moved away, only to return years later to help care for her ill father.  When she returned Deb found a passion she didn’t realize was in her- a passion to share Franklin County and the town of Hampton, with the anyone who would listen.  Deb is a driving force behind tourism in Franklin County, organizing blogger trips, serving on the tourism board and promoting many of the local events.  I think it is safe to say that without the help of Deb, Hampton, Iowa would be just another small- and growing smaller- town in Iowa.

Now, Aric and I had a nice conversation about that, but then he sent this tweet:

So, I’m making it my summer mission to get National Geographic’s popular blogger into the Midwest.  Because if he skips over us he’ll miss some great people like:

Ken Burns who returned to Bonaparte, Iowa after years on the West Coast.  He and his wife own a lovely art gallery and tea shop.  They also run the Villages Folk School where instructors and students come together to keep many of our “lost arts”, like handpiecing, crocheting, rug weaving and chair caning, alive.

El Dean Holtus, whose aunt and uncle, Mr. & Mrs. Pete Rust, saved the cabin where ‘Home on the Range’ was written in Smith County, Kansas.  El Dean works tirelessly as one of the trustees of the Ellen Rust Living Trust, raising funds to maintain the cabin and restore it.

Marci Penner, who loves Kansas as much as I love Iowa.  The author behind the Kansas Sampler Foundation and the 8 Wonders of Kansas, Marci has met more interesting people than I will ever be fortunate enough to know.  The stories she can tell, and the people she could lead Aric to, are immeasurable.

I could go on…  and on…  We all know incredible people and communities in the Midwest.  So I am calling on you- readers, travelers, Midwesterners, to share with Aric what makes the Midwest so great- and why he shouldn’t miss it.

Call to action:

• Send a tweet to @GoodTravelerNG. Tell him what he’s missing.  Use the #TravelMidwest.
• Leave a comment here.  Share your story of inspiring people and passionate communities.
• If you have a blog, share your story there and link it back here using the linky below.
• Invite your friends to join us in sharing how amazing the Midwest- and her people- truly are.  It’s time for us to get over our “aw shucks, t’ain’t nuthin” modesty and really show a=our awesome.
• And who knows- if Aric passes us by, maybe I’ll pay a visit and share your story.
  

Reiman Gardens, on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, is always a beautiful pace to visit.  Following Iowa’s seasons, there is always something new to discover.

Each year Reiman Gardens chooses a theme that carries through the gardens, educational programs, events, and even the gift shop.  The theme for 2012,”Some Assembly Required”, drew my family’s attention in a big way- with fun Lego sculptures throughout the grounds!

27 individual Lego sculptures are scattered both indoors and out, some pieces so seemingly delicate you wonder how they can stay together.

My girls ran along the paths of the gardens proclaiming, “We found another Lego sculpture!”  With no true route in mind, we wandered, willy-nilly, through the myriad of gardens.  As we examined each new sculpture, Brenna, my eldest, would read the information in the brochure, telling us how many Lego pieces each sculpture took to create.  Hummingbird & Flower: 31,565.  Mother Bison: 45,143.  Calf: 16,229.

But the Legos aren’t just for looking at.  Take time to wander into the corn crib in the Children’s Garden and try your hand at creating sculptures.  Add on to building that has already begun, or create your own masterpiece.

We spent just over two hours at Reiman Gardens.  Not only was it a fun family adventure, but we snuck in some education as well.  Brenna learned to read large numbers, we talked about how each sculpture fit into the theme of “Nature Connects”, the girls asked whatever questions came to their minds and we had great discussions about everything from germinating acorns to where frogs go when it’s cold.  Because the true beauty of displays like this is that they bring your family together.

Even if you do have to visit the butterflies twice…

Lego sculptures are on display at Reiman Gardens through October 28, 2012.  Reiman Gardens is open daily for fun, and educational, family outings. 

Family Rambling would like to thank Reiman Gardens for passes to view the Lego sculptures.

When going on vacation in the UK, there’s no greater way to stay there than at one of its’ many fine camping sites. If you’re going with the whole family, then there’s no shortage of places to stay in, whether you’re camping in Devon, Derbyshire or Durham. The best campsites are located in beautiful surroundings with plenty of facilities on site including bars, grocery stores, restaurants, swimming pools and parks.

A lot of the best family-orientated camping sites in the UK are situated in or near its many National Parks. Devon, which is in the South West of England, is home to two National Parks: Exmoor and Dartmoor. From campsites like Crealy Meadows Caravan and Camping Park and the Kingsmead Centre in Cullompton, you can explore the natural beauty of those two parks. Walking is just one of the many things to do from your campsite: visiting a local village or town, sampling local cuisine and going to the beach are just some of the fun things you can do while camping in Devon.

To the west of Devon is Cornwall, which is another part of the UK famed for its natural beauty. If camping at a site like Buzzards Bridge near Heston, you could make a trip to the beach and go surfing. Cornwall is full of great places for surfing, especially the town of Newquay. Cornwall is surprisingly easy to get around, and has plenty of activities to do for the whole family.

Further north, the Lake District National Park in North West England is paradise for rambling as a family. Like in Devon and Cornwall, this place is packed with family-friendly campsites including Lakeland Leisure Park near Flookburgh and, if you want a peaceful vacation, The Quiet Site near Penrith. While you’re there, the views will take your breath away while the number of great British pubs means you won’t be thirsty during your stay.

The Scottish Highlands has a lot of great campsites which will go down well with your kids. Grannie’s Heilan’ Hame Holiday Park in Dornoch has plenty of things for them and you to do, including swimming, arcade games and playing at the on-site park. Meanwhile, to make sure you’re not bored, you can spend time in the bar and enjoy the evening entertainment on every night.   

Photo credit: tejvanphotos

This post was written for Family Rambling; links are sponsored.

With beautiful natural scenery at every turn and a wealth of things to see and do, it is not hard to recognise why the Pyrenees mountain range has long been a popular holiday hotspot. Come here in a touring caravan and you’ll be well-equipped to see all that this fantastic region has to offer.

Spanning the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees is a melting pot of different cultures, so you can be confident of discovering something that matches your interests.

To have total peace of mind for the duration of your break, you need to have caravan insurance in place. This policy provides vital protection in the event your accommodation suffers accidental damage or is the victim of fire, theft, a storm or flooding during your break and ensures that you don’t suffer financially.

By making one of the numerous caravan sites in this part of southern France the base for your break, you can easily explore the region to the utmost. The charming town of Pau is one place that definitely should be visited, not least of all because of the historic castle – the Chateau de Pau – that sits in the centre. This is where the 16th-century king Henry IV was born and today you can find out more about the monarch and observe intricately-woven tapestries.

Get back to nature by heading to one of Pau’s many gardens and public squares. These include the Royal Square and Renaissance Garden, and at every turn you’ll be greeted by the sight of exotic flowers.

If sport is more your thing don’t worry, a number of international equestrian, cycling, golf and motorsport tournaments take place throughout the year. Pau is also a wonderful place for shopping, and you’ll discover well-known stores and independent boutiques alike to splash the cash on wonderful purchases to take back to your static caravan.

Of course, there is much more to explore on a caravan holiday in the Pyrenees than just Pau. Choosing this destination enables you to escape the stress of modern-day life and, in coming to the Mont Valier Nature Reserve, you can enjoy wonderful walks.

Established in 1937, this is one of the oldest reserves in the region and is dominated by the towering Mont Valier, which stands some 2,838 m above sea level. Walking through the foothills surrounding the peak makes for an exhilarating trek and, while doing so, keep an eye out for the wide-ranging wildlife that call the park home, including golden eagles, ospreys and isards.

Visit the Animal Park at St Michel, meanwhile, and you will see everything from eagles and butterflies to bison and wolves, there are also activities for children. The Pont d’Espagne is another pretty spot you must see during a caravan holiday and this protected area of land allows you to soak up wonderful views of the Marcadau valley, before taking a cable car ride to the picturesque Gaube Lake.

A trip to the Chateau de Montsegur will undoubtedly be the highlight of any caravan break. Dating back to the 13th century, this historic castle has largely fallen into ruin and for a period of time was believed to be home to the Holy Grail. As you wander appreciating the medieval architecture, kids will love imagining what it is like to be the king or queen of their own castle. 

The state of Iowa is often called by many names, but on April 23 it will be known as the “State of Now” as nearly four dozen speakers from across the country share their social media stories.

A while ago I posted a comment on a local blog about why people should come to the 140 Character Conference.  Since I can’t really explain it any better than I did there, here is my answer, again, to why you should attend the State of Now:

For those of us involved in the world of social media this presents an opportunity for us to venture outside our known groups and hear other stories of succeeding online, learn new tricks that may enhance our own goals and to meet people we may have only seen in 140 character snippets.

But, more importantly, I think this is a great event for those who may only be dipping their toes into the realm of social media- or who may be too overwhelmed to even begin. It’s a terrific way for small business to see, first hand, how a free tool like Twitter may be able to spread the word about their unique product or amazing customer service. Or maybe Pinterest or Instagram, things they have never even heard of, can give them the visual boost their company has been looking for. It’s a non-threatening environment filled with inspiration- and a great opportunity for every business in Iowa to meet the people who may be able to help them become a national competitor in their own business.

I urge you to take a look at the speakers and the session tracks- you’ll see a wide variety, including education, agriculture, business, and (of course) travel.  No word on if we can expect Ashton Kutcher, who recently invested in local payment system company Dwolla, to show his face in the crowd.

But I would love to see yours.  And so would sponsor Verizon Wireless- just use code ‘verizon’ when you buy your ticket to save $30!

(Be sure to come for the whole day!  But if you are really interested in hearing me speak (of course you are), I’m scheduled for 10:30am. 

Stuck for something for the kids to do this Summer Vacation? Why not head down to the theatre and see some of the greatest stories ever told live on stage!? The theatre is one of the oldest and most treasured forms of entertainment in the world and is still a thriving business and an amazing day out for kids and adults alike!

Here are some of the best, child friendly shows on Broadway, showing all through the summer vacation:

 The Lion King

Producer – Walt Disney Theatrical Productions

Story – The classic Disney tale of a lion prince finding his way is dramatically and sincerely portrayed by a cast of talented, devoted actors. Recently grabbing the top spot from the all-time classic, Phantom Of The Opera, as Broadway’s highest grossing musical of all time, The Lion King is an unmissable treat and saga for the ages. The original score from the film by Elton John remains as the actor/singers belt out the infamous melodies that accompany this epic story. Remember with such a demand you might want to check in advance for Lion King Tickets.

 Matilda

Producer – Royal Shakespeare Company

Story – Roald Dahl’s timeless tale of a genius child with special powers who is overlooked by her parents and head teacher is re-enacted by one of the most famous theatre companies in the world. Matilda, a young rebellious child, overlooked by most adults spends the majority of her time in the library reading books at an expediential rate, which is viewed by her family as odd. Feeling out casted and belittled Matilda sets out, with the help of her friends and the only teacher who sees how special she really is, Miss Honey, to teach the adults in her life a lesson they’ll never forget! With music and lyrics by world famous comedian and composer Tim Minchin, Matilda is a captivating ride for all ages.

Cinderella

Producer – Robyn Goodman and Aged in Wood Productions.

Story – Infamous fairy tale Cinderella might be one for the girls but make no assumption this show comes with a kick! The innovative Robyn Goodman adaptation of the tale follows the rags to riches story of fictional sweet heart Cinderella under the oppression of her evil step mother and step sisters. Its original score is toe-tappingly catchy and will be in your head for weeks after the show. The romance between Cinderella and Prince Charming is delicately portrayed by both actors and echoes the everlasting ethos that love will conquer all!

 Whatever your taste, you can find something down at your local theatre and your kids will have a day out they will never forget. Check out reputable online sources such as Ticket.com or your local listings for details and tickets.

Sunday, April 15 marks the day, 100 years ago, when survivors saw the last bit of the Titanic disappear beneath the dark waters of the northern Atlantic.  A tragedy like no other, the loss of the “unsinkable” ship had a huge impact on Transatlantic ocean voyages that has only recently recovered.

With museums opening in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where the ship was built, and Southampton, England, the Titanic’s home port, just in time for the 100th anniversary, 2012 could be called the “Year of the Titanic”.  Thankfully we didn’t have to go quite that far to get our own brush with the most celebrated ship of all time.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Union Station

Union Station in Kansas City never fails to impress us with the quality exhibits it brings in.  Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition is no exception.  The staging rooms are designed to take you back to the exciting days when the ship launched.  From the enlarged newspaper clippings to the clothing worn a the time, you can feel excitement and progress in the world.

“Breakfasts sat untouched”.  That little bit of a title in the Kansas City paper made me realize just how like the tragedy of 9/11 the sinking of the Titanic really was.  It was unfathomable to people; it shocked them to their core.  How could such a marvel of machinery sink? 

Boarding the Titanic

Before “boarding” your photo is taken at the Grand Staircase, a unique souvenir of your visit.

As you make your way through the interactive exhibit you see blueprints of the ship, scale models and artifacts salvaged from the water after the sinking or from the wreckage so many years later.  Each piece of history has a story to tell; a story that may make you cry, or gasp at the irony, or even laugh.  Black and white photos of the ship’s rooms and decks help put the artifacts in perspective and serve as a reminder that no matter how grand something is, it can disappear in an instant.

While many of us know the stories of Ida Straus and the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown, I was especially touched by the tales of those who worked on board the ship and the passengers who wouldn’t have been on board if not for an unfortunate coal strike.  As with any tragedy, we left with heavy hearts, questions beginning with “what if” circling through our minds.

Did We Survive the Titanic?

As we made our way through the exhibit, we wondered if we would survive.  I felt sure that my passenger, a 6 year old girl in second class, would survive due to age and status.  (She did.)  Doug’s passenger, a 65 year old man in First Class, was more difficult to guess.  Would his station save him?  He also traveled with his young daughter- maybe that would be cause for him to enter a life boat?  Or would he face the watery grave with dignity?  (Evidently he did the latter, as he did not survive.)

Helpful Tips for Visiting Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Union Station

• The Titanic exhibit runs through September 3 (Labor Day weekend), 2012.  The exhibit is closed Mondays, open Tuesday through Sunday and on Monday holidays.

  Second Class China Souvenirs

• Tickets are $19.12 (the year she sank) for adults; $16.12 for children, seniors & military.
• Special events take the week prior to- and the anniversary of- the Titanic sinking.
• The Titanic Exhibit has some of the greatest souvenirs I’ve seen.  Replica China from all three classes of cabins, coal taken from the wreckage, replica boarding passes, books, movies, clothing…  Plan to bring some spending money as there is something for everyone.
• Note: While the exhibition is open to all ages, children younger than 7 will find themselves easily bored.  Much of the exhibit is “hands off” and many displays are secured with alarms.  Children who are fascinated by ships will really enjoy time spent here, especially if they can read on their own and adults take the time to discuss what they are seeing.
  

I travel to Nashville every year for the fabulous BlissDom conference.  Not only is it a terrific conference filled with inspiration and knowledge, but I get to hang out with people who “get me” and spend time with friends that I only get to see once a year.

One of those friends isn’t at the conference, but I take time out to visit her, share stories and enjoy her version of Southern Hospitality.

I Simply Adore Martha Thompson

My article about visiting Financial Peace Plaza continues to draw hundreds of visitors a month, and while everyone comes to catch a glimpse of Dave Ramsey I will contend that people who return time and again do so because of Martha.

This was my third visit to Financial Peace Plaza (and Caelan’s second).  I walked in the door and Martha greeted me by name and with a hug.  She is such a warm, giving, genuine person- even when she’s incredibly busy, as she was that day, preparing for a large group coming in that afternoon.

While my friends took a tour of Financial Peace Plaza, Caelan and I stayed with Martha and just talked.  We must have been there an hour and a half.  Not once did we feel rushed to leave, not once did the conversation lag.

I should probably mention that Martha runs the cafe at Financial Peace Plaza, so Caelan enjoyed a massive, freshly dipped chocolate covered strawberry and cocoa while we chatted.  Visiting with Martha is one of the highlights of my trip to Nashville.

Junior’s Adventures

I believe I mentioned how generous Martha is.  While I received a lovely gift pack, Martha gave Caelan a gift all her own: Junior’s Adventures 6 CD Audio set.  We love Junior in our house…  We have the books, the banks and even the Financial Peace Junior kit to help the girls understand how to earn, give, save & spend their own money.  The CDs are so handy- we listen to them in the car and Caelan will listen to a story as she falls asleep.  The cute metal retro lunchbox is a great way to carry the CDs- and a couple small toys, too!

But Martha didn’t just give Caelan a set of Junior books on CD, she also gave us one to give away here on the blog.  To that I’m adding the Total Money Makeover Journal; 184 pages of inspiring quotes and places to write your thoughts, dreams and goals.

Entry is easy- just leave a comment.  Topic ideas:  Dream vacation when you’re debt free, How you decide what chores your kids get paid for and which they do because they are part of the family, Favorite Dave Ramsey saying….  Or tell me your own Financial Peace story.  Whatever your comment, make sure it’s good because Caelan will be picking her favorite as the winner.

Rules:  Contest ends April 10 at 11:59pm.  Winner will be chosen April 11 and notified via email.  Please make sure you complete the email portion of the comment form so I can reach you.

I love how much we travel with our girls.  Near or far, it’s always an adventure.  But sometimes we adults need some time to get away and remember just why we fell in love.

Doug and I recently had an “adults only” getaway to Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri.  The Plaza holds special memories for us as Doug surprised me with a weekend getaway there when we were early in our relationship and we took a long weekend there when we got married.  It was the perfect getaway to reconnect and enjoy a little romance.

The Raphael, Kansas City’s Romantic Boutique Hotel

The minute you arrive at the Raphael Hotel you know you’re somewhere special.  The elegant brick structure brings to mind a time when buildings were built with care, each brick an important piece of the finished work.  As your vehicle rolls to a stop your door is opened and you are welcomed with a flourish by the impeccably dressed doorman. As the doors open and you enter the gilded lobby you know you’ve stepped back in time to a day when luxury hotel stays meant you dressed for dinner and guests were treated as more than bodies in a room.

Most of the rooms in the hotel are suites featuring a roomy sitting area with desk and television and a separate sleeping area.  I love this type of room as I am an early riser and Doug loves to sleep in when he can.  I enjoyed tea made in the Keurig and utilized the free wireless internet at my leisure- so relaxing with no little ones interrupting.  A light breakfast delivered from the on-site restaurant made my morning complete.

While the hotel, itself, is an incredible treat it is the staff that makes it truly special.  Every coming or going is recognized with a greeting, wishes for a good day, or offer of assistance; it feels like every member of the staff wants your stay to be perfect.

The Chaz Restaurant

With live music practically every evening and an eclectic variety of dishes, it’s no wonder Chaz on the Plaza has become one of Kansas City’s favorite dining spots.

The restaurant is small and quiet which made it perfect for pre-dinner drinks and a small appetizer.  The Braised Veal Cheek Sliders are a must, the incredibly tender meat so well accompanied by the salty mildness of the Emmentaler cheese.

The breakfast menu had a decidedly French feel with omelets, Benedicts and a Bananas Foster French Toast that was simply heavenly.  The only disappointment was the Chicken Fried Steak.  While good, it was almost as if the meat was too nice of a cut and the breading too light and not crisp enough.   (Yes, I know, how sad is it to say a piece of meat was too good?)

Enjoying Country Club Plaza as a Couple

Country Club Plaza was created to resemble Seville, Spain.  Statues, murals, tile mosaics and beautiful buildings make this a perfect area for strolling, hand in hand.  Upscale shops attract your eye and dozens of restaurants are available to please you palate.  My top picks for romance:

Best place to relive Lady & the Tramp’s Spaghetti Scene:  Buca di Beppo

This Italian restaurant is popular with large groups for their family style dining, but small, private boots are perfect for your romantic evening.

Best place when the cost doesn’t matter: McCormick’s & Schmick’s

Known for their steaks and seafood, M&S serves only the very freshest food available.  The chefs are known for their incredible variety and perfect presentation.  For a truly private dining experience reserve a snug.

Best for couples who can’t agree on what to eat:  Fogo de Chao

Meats slowly cooked over fire.  And a salad bar that even salad haters will love.  Gauchos who bring the meat, on the skewer, to your table and slice it off right in front of you.  And tasty side dishes that include caramelized bananas and warm cheese bread that is lighter than air.

Most romantic for dessert:  The Melting Pot

Chocolate fondue.  Need I say more?  OK, chocolate fondue and champagne.

Best place to relax on a beautiful afternoon:  O’Dowd’s Little Dublin

Head directly for the only rooftop deck on the Plaza.  Relax with a drink, nibble on the Ploughman’s Platter, talk, flirt, and remember what life was like before kids.

Kansas City is one of our favorite destinations, both as a couple and as a family.  With so much to do, so many things going on, it’s no wonder one of our favorite sayings is “Kansas City Here We Come!” 

Disclosure: This getaway was fully paid for by Doug & I. 

Here you’ll find links to articles and reviews I’ve written for other outlets. Simply click the link at the bottom of the post to read the article.

While not an official holiday, National Tourist Appreciation Day is celebrated across the US on May 6 this year. Some locations, not content with spoiling their tourists for only a day, will spread their celebration of tourism across the full week, May 5-13.

via Celebrating National Tourism Week in the USBlissfully Domestic.

My talk at the State of Now/ DM140 Conference. On travel, growing up poor and turning my blog into an international business.

Video streaming by Ustream

Chatting with WorldTravelMom about what makes Iowa and Ireland such great places to live and play!

Jody has two daughters, ages 5 & 7 and is an Iowa (where she lives in a suburb of Des Moines) and Ireland (where she often travels with her fam) expert. You can follow Jody’s adventures on Twitter via @iatraveler and learn more about her in this week’s Mom Traveler Spotlight!

via Mom Traveler Spotlight: Jody Halsted | Mom’s Guide to Travel.

I love sharing my passion for family travel in Ireland whenever I can.  Here I chat with WanderingEducators about what makes the Emerald Isle the best place for a fun family vacation.

Longtime readers of Wandering Educators know that we LOVE Ireland. From the beauty of the landscape to the friendliness of the Irish people, it’s a destination we can return to again and again. And, we love sharing resources about Ireland, so that our Wandering Educators can read about, learn from, and travel to new places in Ireland. One such excellent resource is Ireland with Kids. It’s a great site published by Jody Halsted. Ireland with Kids covers all aspects of travel to Ireland – not just with kids! From tourist attractions to weather to food and everything in between, she’s got Ireland covered. We recently shared an Ireland Itinerary: 10 Days on the Ring of Kerry on Ireland with Kids.

via Ireland with Kids | Wandering Educators.

Here you’ll find links to articles and reviews I’ve written for other outlets. Simply click the link at the bottom of the post to read the article.

With summer vacation nearly upon us, many parents are looking at high gas prices and wondering if a fun family vacation is even possible this year.

Instead of thinking about where you can go on four wheels, step back and think about taking a family vacation on two wheels- on your bikes.

via Traveling with Your Family on Bikes – Blissfully DomesticBlissfully Domestic.

I was thrilled to be asked to share some of my Ireland expertise with Travelwyse for their “Experts Guide to Ireland” post.

Jody Halsted from Ireland with Kids

When I am contacted by families planning their first trip to Ireland I recommend they get out of Dublin and head to the Southwest part of the country. Killarney is one of the most kid-friendly towns in Ireland. Dozens of bed & breakfasts happily play host to families, serving thin Irish pancakes along side the full Irish breakfast. One of our favorite B&Bs is Mystical Rose.

Surrounding Killarney are dozens of incredible sites and activities. Killarney National Park is over 25,000 acres of wide open spaces perfect for biking, walking or taking a ride in a jaunting cart. Not far from Killarney, along N22, is Kennedy’s Pet Farm where children can get close to cuddly puppies, goats, deer and bunnies. Indoor and outdoor play areas guarantee plenty of kid friendly active play.

Of course Killarney makes a great base for some of Ireland’s “must do” activities: a ring of Kerry Tour and day trips to Dingle, the Cliffs of Moher, the Rock of Cashel and Bunratty Castle.

via The experts’ guide to Ireland.

Here you’ll find links to articles and reviews I’ve written for other outlets. Simply click the link at the bottom of the post to read the article.

April 19, 1995. A day like any other. That’s the feeling you get as you enter the reenacted Oklahoma Water Resources Board meeting on the Museum’s third floor. At barely two minutes into the recorded meeting the lights flicker and the building shakes. Left in darkness, the meeting’s attendees have no idea of the destruction across the street.

via Remembering the Children of the Oklahoma City Bombing with Hope – Blissfully DomesticBlissfully Domestic.

Here you’ll find links to articles and reviews I’ve written for other outlets. Simply click the link at the bottom of the post to read the article.

The most well-known of the luxury steamers was the RMS Titanic. Cursed from the moment she was pronounced “unsinkable”, her story has been memorialized in print and on screen, most notably in James Cameron’s Titanic which has been re-released in 3D- just in time for the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the majestic ship.

via The World Remembers the Titanic: 100 Year Anniversary – Blissfully DomesticBlissfully Domestic.

I’m thrilled to have my Easter Far From Home post at Family Rambling featured on Hershey’s Bunny Trail this Easter!

Here you’ll find links to articles and reviews I’ve written for other outlets. Simply click the link at the bottom of the post to read the article.

While I am a huge proponent of “do it yourself” travel, there are times when a tour company is really the best option. But choosing the right company to guide your family on a once-in-a-lifetime trip can be confusing and frustrating. There are so many options- how can you choose?

via Tips for Choosing a Family Vacation Tour CompanyBlissfully Domestic.