We’ve always loved a good project, and after years of long-term property management, we decided to take the leap into short-term rentals! Enter our newest adventure: A-Frame-of-Mind, a cozy mountain escape in Massanutten Resort in McGaheysville, Virginia.

Cape Town is one of the most spectacular destinations we’ve explored as a family, truly a place where natural beauty, cultural diversity, and unforgettable adventures collide. From mountain peaks to historic landmarks, foodie hotspots to colorful neighborhoods, Cape Town is a dream for every type of traveler. Whether you're visiting with kids or flying solo, these 12 must-do experiences should be at the top of your itinerary!

Johannesburg may be known as the economic engine of South Africa, but just beyond the city limits lies a whole world of incredible day trips waiting to be explored. Whether you're traveling with toddlers, grandparents, or multigenerational groups (like we often are!), Joburg is the perfect home base for unforgettable adventures. From mini safaris to ancient caves, playful monkeys to panoramic views, there’s something for everyone within a short drive of Jozi. These are our family’s favorite day trips from Johannesburg, each one offering a chance to get out of the city and experience the wild beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality that South Africa is known for.

Johannesburg, lovingly known as Joburg or Jozi, stole our hearts during our nearly six-month stay in South Africa. As a family of four living abroad for the first time, we discovered just how incredibly welcoming, vibrant, and kid-friendly this city truly is. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, this guide features our top 18 must-do activities in Johannesburg, complete with travel tips for families and the best kid-friendly experiences. We’ve also included top dining spots for all ages and day trip ideas to help you make the most of your South African adventure.

If you’ve landed here, chances are adoption has tugged on your heart, and if so, welcome to one of the most life-altering journeys you’ll ever walk. International adoption is layered with paperwork, delays, emotional highs and lows, and plenty of unknowns. But it’s also lined with indescribable joy, fierce love, and a deep sense of purpose. Whether you're just beginning to explore adoption or deep in the trenches, I want to offer not just encouragement, but help based on our personal experience navigating international adoption in South Africa during a global pandemic and a surprise pregnancy. I’ve been in your shoes… overwhelmed, confused, and wondering what comes next. So here’s our story, step-by-step, along with insights I hope will guide you.

Cappadocia (or Kapadokya) was the crown jewel of our 11-day Turkey itinerary—which also included Istanbul, the Turkish Riviera, and the thermal pools of Pamukkale. But this magical region, with its whimsical landscapes and warm hospitality, absolutely stole our hearts. While many people think of Cappadocia as a single town, it's actually a large region filled with charming villages, each with its own unique views and personality. To explore it properly, we rented a car—highly recommend if you're comfortable driving abroad! (It was one of our easiest self-drive experiences to date.)