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boy standing in front of a yellow tulip field
the Netherlands | Travel | Travel Tips

The Absolute Best Places to See Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

ByJessica Lynn 02.08.202302.08.2023

I’m pretty certain that there’s no better joy in the springtime than seeing rows and rows and rows and rows of brightly-colored tulip fields in Holland. If you’re looking for…

Read More The Absolute Best Places to See Tulip Fields in the NetherlandsContinue

Things I miss About America
Living Overseas | Travel | United States

Things I miss About America

ByJessica Lynn 02.01.202302.01.2023

Whether you’ve lived away from the United States for one week, three years, or a decade+, finding yourself homesick and discovering things you miss about America is bound to happen…

Read More Things I miss About AmericaContinue

What to Wear in Lapland: A Winter Family Packing List
Finland | Lapland | Travel

What to Wear in Lapland: A Winter Family Packing List

ByJessica Lynn 01.25.202301.25.2023

I’ve packed for my fair share of trips before, but when we decided to go to Finland for a weekend I instantly panicked; I had no idea what to wear…

Read More What to Wear in Lapland: A Winter Family Packing ListContinue

Our Family Trip to Finland: A Weekend in Lapland
Finland | Lapland | Travel

Our Family Trip to Finland: A Weekend in Lapland

ByJessica Lynn 01.22.202301.25.2023

As I type this, my son’s stuffed toy reindeer, dubbed “Finney,” is staring at me from across the table. Every time I see Finney she reminds me of our once-in-a-lifetime…

Read More Our Family Trip to Finland: A Weekend in LaplandContinue

Glass Blowing in Prague: A Totally Fun Family Experience
Czech Republic | Travel | Travel Tips

Glass Blowing in Prague: A Totally Fun Family Experience

ByJessica Lynn 01.11.202301.13.2023

I love finding fun and unique things to do when we’re in different cities. So when I heard about a family-friendly experience where you can do glass blowing in Prague,…

Read More Glass Blowing in Prague: A Totally Fun Family ExperienceContinue

What it’s really like Visiting a Beer Spa with Kids in Prague
Czech Republic | Travel | Travel Tips

What it’s really like Visiting a Beer Spa with Kids in Prague

ByJessica Lynn 01.06.202301.13.2023

Did you do a double-take with that title? I promise it isn’t a typo. Sure, “visiting a beer spa with kids” may seem like an oxymoron, but I’m here to…

Read More What it’s really like Visiting a Beer Spa with Kids in PragueContinue

2022: Our Year of Travel!
Family | Travel

2022: Our Year of Travel!

ByJessica Lynn 01.03.202301.03.2023

Wow. Last year, 2022, ended up being much more than I could have imagined. When we knew/found out we were moving overseas we had grand plans of traveling…and that was…

Read More 2022: Our Year of Travel!Continue

An Awesome Eastern Europe Itinerary: 10-day Road Trip
Austria | Czech Republic | Germany | Hungary | Poland | Slovakia | Travel

An Awesome Eastern Europe Itinerary: 10-day Road Trip

ByJessica Lynn 12.07.202212.06.2022

If you’re itching to see a lot of great places like Prague and Budapest (among others), then this Eastern Europe itinerary, a 10-day road trip, is the perfect way to…

Read More An Awesome Eastern Europe Itinerary: 10-day Road TripContinue

visit the monschau christmas market for an magical experience
Christmas Markets | Europe | Germany

All About the 2022 Monschau Christmas Market in Germany

ByJessica Lynn 12.05.202212.05.2022

If you’re in the market (ha, see what I did there?) for a charming and smaller Christmas market in a quaint little German town—complete with a picturesque river running through…

Read More All About the 2022 Monschau Christmas Market in GermanyContinue

a look inside Streckhof Frauenkirchen
Austria | Europe | Travel

Streckhof Frauenkirchen: A Family-Friendly Stay in Burgenland, Austria

ByJessica Lynn 11.15.202211.14.2022

If you find yourself (with your family in tow) in the picturesque province of Burgenland, Austria, Streckhof Frauenkirchen is exactly the place where you’ll want to stay for a little…

Read More Streckhof Frauenkirchen: A Family-Friendly Stay in Burgenland, AustriaContinue

Ultimate Guide for the 2022 Cologne Christmas Market in Germany
Christmas Markets | Europe | Germany

Ultimate Guide for the 2022 Cologne Christmas Market in Germany

ByJessica Lynn 11.11.202211.11.2022

Okay, I know I haven’t been to all the Christmas markets out there, but from the ones I have been to (more than a dozen), the Cologne Christmas market in…

Read More Ultimate Guide for the 2022 Cologne Christmas Market in GermanyContinue

Our Surprising Detour to Alburquerque, Spain
Europe | New Mexico | Spain

Our Surprising Detour to Alburquerque, Spain

ByJessica Lynn 10.30.202210.29.2022

No, that’s not a typo in the title; I didn’t misspell Albuquerque. If you’re familiar with Albuquerque, a city in New Mexico, USA, you may be scratching your head at…

Read More Our Surprising Detour to Alburquerque, SpainContinue

Make the most of your winter in Europe with these helpful Christmas market tips. This post will be a handy guide for a great experience.
Christmas Markets | Europe | Travel Tips

Helpful Christmas Market Tips For Your First Visit (2022)

ByJessica Lynn 10.12.202211.12.2022

Europen Christmas markets are straight-up magical, but if it’s your first time you may be wondering how they work. My hope is that after you read this post full of…

Read More Helpful Christmas Market Tips For Your First Visit (2022)Continue

Top 5 Places To Make Macarons in Paris with Kids
Europe | France

Top 5 Places To Make Macarons in Paris with Kids

ByJessica Lynn 10.07.202210.10.2022

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience with your family during your trip to the City of Lights, then you’ve come to the right place. Learning to make macarons in…

Read More Top 5 Places To Make Macarons in Paris with KidsContinue

A Weekend in Paris with Kids: Our Awesome Itinerary
Europe | France | The Kids

A Weekend in Paris with Kids: Our Awesome Itinerary

ByJessica Lynn 10.02.202210.10.2022

I’m so excited to share our loose itinerary for spending a weekend in Paris with kids. I say “loose,” because when you’re traveling to Paris with kids, the number one…

Read More A Weekend in Paris with Kids: Our Awesome ItineraryContinue

2022 Disney Cruise Packing List: Extra Fun Things You Need
cruising | Disney Cruise Line | Travel Tips

2022 Disney Cruise Packing List: Extra Fun Things You Need

ByJessica Lynn 09.19.202209.19.2022

You’ve probably already spent a fortune on your Disney Cruise, and while you absolutely don’t need any of the stuff mentioned below (because Disney already excels at bringing the magic),…

Read More 2022 Disney Cruise Packing List: Extra Fun Things You NeedContinue

Review of Center Parcs De Haan in Belgium
Belgium | Europe | Travel

Review of Center Parcs De Haan in Belgium

ByJessica Lynn 09.14.202209.16.2022

When my in-laws said they were flying into Brussels on a Friday, we had the grand idea to turn that weekend into a mini holiday for our family. Since it…

Read More Review of Center Parcs De Haan in BelgiumContinue

Top Things You’ve Gotta do in Segovia, Spain
Europe | Spain | Travel

Top Things You’ve Gotta do in Segovia, Spain

ByJessica Lynn 09.11.202209.11.2022

If you’re reading this post it’s likely that you already have plans for a day trip to Segovia, Spain. Maybe you’re planning on traipsing around this Spanish town for a…

Read More Top Things You’ve Gotta do in Segovia, SpainContinue

Hansel and Gretel Pancake House Near Amsterdam
Europe | the Netherlands | Travel

Hansel and Gretel Pancake House Near Amsterdam

ByJessica Lynn 09.08.202209.16.2022

I’m just going to say it: Europe has way cooler stuff than America does. Take this seriously fantastic place to eat, the Hansel and Gretel Pancake House in the Netherlands….

Read More Hansel and Gretel Pancake House Near AmsterdamContinue

Everything You Need for a Trip to Center Parcs + Packing List
Europe | Travel | Travel Tips

Everything You Need for a Trip to Center Parcs + Packing List

ByJessica Lynn 09.04.202201.09.2023

Just thinking about a trip to Center Parcs makes me giddy. It’s so much fun for all ages, not just for kids. But thinking about what to pack for Center…

Read More Everything You Need for a Trip to Center Parcs + Packing ListContinue

Our (Negative) Experience on a Norwegian Cruise
Baltics | cruising | Europe

Our (Negative) Experience on a Norwegian Cruise

ByJessica Lynn 09.01.202209.01.2022

I’ve been avoiding writing about the Baltic Cruise we went on this summer (2022). Not because the places we visited weren’t great (they were wonderful), but because we hated the…

Read More Our (Negative) Experience on a Norwegian CruiseContinue

A Quick Look at Schloss Schwerin
castles | Europe | Germany

A Quick Look at Schloss Schwerin

ByJessica Lynn 08.23.202209.16.2022

Seeing Schloss Schwerin in real life was another one of those pinch-me-please moments. I saw it floating around Pinterest before we even arrived in Germany, and thought how cool it…

Read More A Quick Look at Schloss SchwerinContinue

An Ultimate Guide for Taking Kids to the Balloon Fiesta
Balloon Fiesta | New Mexico | Travel | United States

An Ultimate Guide for Taking Kids to the Balloon Fiesta

ByJessica Lynn 08.05.202208.08.2022

Every October the skies in Albuquerque, New Mexico, are dotted with hundreds of colorful balloons. And if you’re wondering what there is for kids at the balloon fiesta, I’ve got…

Read More An Ultimate Guide for Taking Kids to the Balloon FiestaContinue

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Alamogordo, NM
Duty Station Spotlight | Military | New Mexico | Travel | United States

Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Alamogordo, NM

ByJessica Lynn 08.01.202208.08.2022

Did you just find out that you’re moving to Holloman AFB soon? If you did, I bet you’re wondering about things to do in Alamogordo and all the things about…

Read More Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Alamogordo, NMContinue

Fun Things to do With One Day in Ghent
Belgium | Europe | Travel

Fun Things to do With One Day in Ghent

ByJessica Lynn 07.26.202209.16.2022

If you’re looking for a town full of charm that’s not too big and not too small, then Ghent, Belgium, fits that bill. And don’t worry: if you only have…

Read More Fun Things to do With One Day in GhentContinue

The Best Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 14-Day Road Trip
Europe | Portugal | Spain | Travel

The Best Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 14-Day Road Trip

ByJessica Lynn 07.14.202210.06.2022

With this Spain and Portugal itinerary, 14 days is the perfect way to get your feet wet by exploring two amazing countries. The best part is that this guide is…

Read More The Best Spain and Portugal Itinerary: 14-Day Road TripContinue

Find Dinosaur Footprints in Algarve, Portugal
Europe | Portugal | Travel

Find Dinosaur Footprints in Algarve, Portugal

ByJessica Lynn 06.26.202209.27.2022

As I was searching for things to do in the southern part of Portugal during our two-week Spain and Portugal road trip, I discovered something pretty darn cool: there are…

Read More Find Dinosaur Footprints in Algarve, PortugalContinue

HUNTING GIANT TROLLS IN BELGIUM
Belgium | Europe | Travel

HUNTING GIANT TROLLS IN BELGIUM

ByJessica Lynn 06.05.202209.16.2022

Trolls in Belgium, you say? Oh yes, there are GIANT trolls (seven, to be exact) in Belgium, and they’re waiting for you to go find them. Save this post and…

Read More HUNTING GIANT TROLLS IN BELGIUMContinue

Visiting Mount Etna on Your Own with Kids
Europe | Italy | Travel

Visiting Mount Etna on Your Own with Kids

ByJessica Lynn 05.02.202201.18.2023

If you’re heading to Sicily, Italy, with your family, one of your must-visit spots has to be Mount Etna: the iconic and massive active volcano. This post will help you…

Read More Visiting Mount Etna on Your Own with KidsContinue

Let’s Cruise Together in 2023!
Croatia | cruising | Europe | Greece

Let’s Cruise Together in 2023!

ByJessica Lynn 04.03.202201.28.2023

I am SO excited to invite you on a family-friendly cruise Mediterranean vacay with me and my crew. No family? No problem. Whether you’re single, traveling with friends, or going…

Read More Let’s Cruise Together in 2023!Continue

Ultimate Guide for 4 Days in Sicily with Kids
Europe | Italy | Travel

Ultimate Guide for 4 Days in Sicily with Kids

ByJessica Lynn 03.25.202208.04.2022

I’m excited to share exactly how we spent our recent family holiday in Sicily, Italy. Visiting Sicily with kids is totally doable, and I’ll walk you through our trip so…

Read More Ultimate Guide for 4 Days in Sicily with KidsContinue

#DutyStationSpotlight on PCSing to RAF Lakenheath
Duty Station Spotlight | Europe | Military | Travel

#DutyStationSpotlight on PCSing to RAF Lakenheath

ByJessica Lynn 02.23.202207.31.2022

If your family just got word that you’re PCSing to RAF Lakenheath in England, you’ve come to the right place. But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill guide. You won’t discover what…

Read More #DutyStationSpotlight on PCSing to RAF LakenheathContinue

Explore Burg Satzvey in Germany
castles | Europe | Germany | Travel

Explore Burg Satzvey in Germany

ByJessica Lynn 02.14.202209.16.2022

Burg Satzvey was one of the cutest little castles that we’ve seen in Germany, and it’s less than an hour from two popular cities, Bonn and Cologne, making it a…

Read More Explore Burg Satzvey in GermanyContinue

Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam
Europe | the Netherlands | Travel

Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam

ByJessica Lynn 02.10.202210.12.2022

When my mom came out to visit us in the fall of 2021 there were three things she wanted to do: experience visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, see…

Read More Visiting the Anne Frank House in AmsterdamContinue

7 Helpful Passport Tips You’ve Gotta Know About
Travel | Travel Tips

7 Helpful Passport Tips You’ve Gotta Know About

ByJessica Lynn 02.04.202209.04.2022

Whether you’re daydreaming about jetting off around the world or you’re ready to bite the bullet and book some tickets, the first thing you need is a passport. Before you…

Read More 7 Helpful Passport Tips You’ve Gotta Know AboutContinue

Our Favorite Easy Chili Recipe
Good Eats

Our Favorite Easy Chili Recipe

ByJessica Lynn 01.31.202201.31.2022

First I need to apologize, because this meal—this super easy chili recipe—is one of our favorites, and I’ve never officially posted it on here before now. When I say it’s…

Read More Our Favorite Easy Chili RecipeContinue

#DutyStationSpotlight: Moving to Anchorage, Alaska
Duty Station Spotlight | Military | Travel | United States

#DutyStationSpotlight: Moving to Anchorage, Alaska

ByJessica Lynn 01.27.202207.31.2022

If your family just got word that you’re moving to Anchorage, Alaska, and getting stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, you’ve come to the right place. But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill…

Read More #DutyStationSpotlight: Moving to Anchorage, AlaskaContinue

Ultimate Guide for Finding Family-Friendly Hotels in Europe
Europe | The Kids | Travel | Travel Tips

Ultimate Guide for Finding Family-Friendly Hotels in Europe

ByJessica Lynn 01.21.202201.04.2023

Kinderhotels in Europe are like magical unicorns for traveling families and unlike anything else. But finding and narrowing down family-friendly hotels in Europe can feel harder than spotting an actual…

Read More Ultimate Guide for Finding Family-Friendly Hotels in EuropeContinue

5 Fun Things to do on a Day Trip to Burano, Italy
Europe | Italy | Travel

5 Fun Things to do on a Day Trip to Burano, Italy

ByJessica Lynn 01.13.202208.04.2022

I totally understand why there’s a lot of hype and excitement about traipsing around Venice. It is gorgeous, and it’s full of hidden treasures around nook and cranny. But when…

Read More 5 Fun Things to do on a Day Trip to Burano, ItalyContinue

Alpenrose Familux Resort Review | Tyrol, Austria
Austria | Europe | Travel

Alpenrose Familux Resort Review | Tyrol, Austria

ByJessica Lynn 01.09.202209.16.2022

We closed out 2021 and welcomed in 2022 with the most delightful, family-friendly and all-inclusive holiday at the Alpenrose Familux Resort in Tyrol, Austria, and I can’t wait to tell…

Read More Alpenrose Familux Resort Review | Tyrol, AustriaContinue

The Best of 2021
Blogging

The Best of 2021

ByJessica Lynn 12.29.202112.29.2021

True story: I typed “The Best of 2020” twice before finally getting it right. Whoops. I won’t lie and say 2021 was all peaches and cream, because it was more…

Read More The Best of 2021Continue

Visiting the Valkenburg Christmas Market in the Netherlands 2022
Christmas Markets | Europe | the Netherlands

Visiting the Valkenburg Christmas Market in the Netherlands 2022

ByJessica Lynn 12.18.202109.28.2022

A Christmas market in a CAVE?! Actually, it’s not just one market, but THREE markets. And it’s not just one cave, but TWO caves! Visiting the Valkenburg Christmas Market is…

Read More Visiting the Valkenburg Christmas Market in the Netherlands 2022Continue

My Instagram Account was Disabled (And I Want it Back!)
Blogging | random thoughts

My Instagram Account was Disabled (And I Want it Back!)

ByJessica Lynn 12.12.202112.12.2021

I lost my instagram account earlier this week. No. I take that back—I didn’t lose it—Instagram took it from me…or is holding it from me. It’s technically “disabled.” At least…

Read More My Instagram Account was Disabled (And I Want it Back!)Continue

All About the Aachen Christmas Market in Germany 2022
Christmas Markets | Europe | Germany

All About the Aachen Christmas Market in Germany 2022

ByJessica Lynn 12.07.202111.08.2022

The Aachen Christmas Market is always mentioned in everyone’s 10 ten and “best of” list, so I had to see why. The market scene is set surrounding the beautiful Aachen…

Read More All About the Aachen Christmas Market in Germany 2022Continue

Grandma’s Gingersnaps Recipe
Family | Good Eats | Holiday

Grandma’s Gingersnaps Recipe

ByJessica Lynn 12.05.202112.05.2021

I originally published this gingersnaps recipe back in 2011, but it desperately needed a refresher (not on the actual recipe—that hasn’t changed—just the post itself. New pictures to come after…

Read More Grandma’s Gingersnaps RecipeContinue

All About the Essen Christmas Market in Germany 2022
Christmas Markets | Europe | Germany

All About the Essen Christmas Market in Germany 2022

ByJessica Lynn 12.03.202109.28.2022

There’s something extra special about the Essen Christmas market. And sure, maybe it’s because it’s it’s the first one I experienced while living in Germany (thanks to the pandoozy for…

Read More All About the Essen Christmas Market in Germany 2022Continue

5 Super Helpful Tips for Baking with Kids
Good Eats | Holiday | The Kids | this mom thing

5 Super Helpful Tips for Baking with Kids

ByJessica Lynn 11.14.202112.06.2021

Anyone who’s been around toddlers for more than five minutes knows that a perfect baking day with kids is a complete fantasy—right up there with getting a full night’s sleep…

Read More 5 Super Helpful Tips for Baking with KidsContinue

Visiting Villers Abbey in Belgium
Belgium | Europe | Travel

Visiting Villers Abbey in Belgium

ByJessica Lynn 11.12.202109.16.2022

So there we were, driving to Normandy, France, for a quick summer getaway when I noticed a road sign in Belgium stating Villers-la-Ville was the next exit. Villers…Villers…I couldn’t figure…

Read More Visiting Villers Abbey in BelgiumContinue

Our Favorite USEFUL Family Travel Must Haves
Family | Travel | Travel Tips

Our Favorite USEFUL Family Travel Must Haves

ByJessica Lynn 11.07.202109.04.2022

I’m so excited to finally share this list with you with our favorite useful family travel must haves for your next trip. I know there are tons of lists like…

Read More Our Favorite USEFUL Family Travel Must HavesContinue

Where to See a Stave Church in Germany
Europe | Germany | Travel

Where to See a Stave Church in Germany

ByJessica Lynn 11.05.202109.16.2022

Did you know that you can see a Norwegian-style stave church in Germany? True story! And this post will tell you everything you need to know about it. Nestled in…

Read More Where to See a Stave Church in GermanyContinue

One Day in Amsterdam with a Family
Europe | the Netherlands | Travel

One Day in Amsterdam with a Family

ByJessica Lynn 10.03.202111.08.2022

A few weekends ago we woke up before the sun and made a bee-line to the train station. It was our first experience going on the train with kids in…

Read More One Day in Amsterdam with a FamilyContinue

the latest on instagram

🚨 This secret spot in Sicily really ROCKED! Che 🚨 This secret spot in Sicily really ROCKED! Check it out ⤵️⁠
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The shores south of Syracusa, Italy, are stunning. ⁠
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Crystal-clear water reflects every shade of blue you can imagine, and fun rock formations grace the coast. ⁠
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🌊 We were there at high tide, and the waves crashing into the rocks were beautiful. 

You can actually swim into some of the coves (we were just passing through. The other two kids were actually asleep in the car, so Julia got her own little adventure time alone.)⁠
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If we had more time it'd be awesome to catch this area at low tide. 

The sandy beaches in the area are supposed to be pretty amazing, and there were boat rentals nearby that open in the spring/summertime. ⁠
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🧭 For your GPS: Ognina Beach or Asparano for the spot in the video. There's also a restaurant right there: @ognina_sunefood (it was closed when we were there in February 2022, but maybe you'll luck out).⁠
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⫸⫸ Have you been to Sicily's west coast yet? ⁠
 ➳ check out the blog (🔗 in bio) for some Sicily guides!⁠
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✈️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
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follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe.⁠⁠⁠
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#jesstagirlinitaly #sicilyitaly #sicily #sicilytourism #syracusa #ortigia #siracusa #kidswhotravel #travelwithkids #travelingwithkids #familytravel #familieswhotravel #Familytrips #lifewelltraveled #familytravelblogger #familytravelblog #americanineurope #italywithkids #expatfamily #expatadventures #travelfamilies #travelmom #familytravels #militaryfamily #livingoverseas #militarytravel #militarymom
Here's something that doesn't get talked about muc Here's something that doesn't get talked about much when you're living overseas: feeling homesick.⁠
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Long caption short: I was going to go home last month for a quick visit, but instead, the military swooped in and changed plans. I ended up solo parenting instead. ⁠
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No big deal; it's not the first time plans have changed and it won't be our last. And on the bright side, I didn't buy plane tickets because we had a feeling something like this would happen.⁠
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But one thing led to another and homesickness started to kick in. ⁠
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Whether you're in a new city, a new state, or even a new country, you can be living your best life away from home and still feel that pang of missing "home." ⁠
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Sometimes it comes in little bursts or waves and sometimes it sticks around for a little while. ⁠
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I'm not an expert on this topic, so my methods to overcome homesickness are few and far between, but there are a few things that sometimes help me:⁠
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📝 I write down things I miss from home⁠
AND⁠
📝 I write down things that I like about where I'm currently living. ⁠
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🌟 I also talk about it with friends. Whenever I bring it up I find comfort in knowing I'm not alone. ⁠
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....so if you don't feel like you have anyone to talk to, my DMs are always open.⁠
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If you'd like to see my (ongoing) list of things I miss from America, I put it up on the blog (🔗 in bio; look for this pic). Let me know if you agree with them and if I'm missing anything. ⁠
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Here's to sunnier days ahead :) ⁠
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📍Albuquerque, New Mexico circa 2019⁠
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follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe.⁠
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#girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #ladiesgoneglobal #thetravelwomen #glt #girlsvsglobe #globelletravels #darlingescapes #girlswhotravel #livingoversas #americanineurope #girlsthatwander #travelingmom #militaryfamily #milspouse #militarymove #militarylife #travelblogger #militarywife #milspouselife #pcsmove #pcsseason #militaryblogger #oconus
WHAT WE WORE IN FINLAND (aka: what to wear if you' WHAT WE WORE IN FINLAND (aka: what to wear if you've never been in ridiculously cold weather before).⁠
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I grew up in America's southwest and then lived in the humid south where a "snow day" for us meant there was a dusting of the white stuff that was gone by noon. ⁠
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So traveling to Finland was TOTALLY out of my wheelhouse. Thankfully, I packed right and none of us froze. ⁠
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🧳Here's a quick look at what we each took for a weekend in Lapland:⁠
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on the bottom half...⁠
❄️ Thermals x2⁠
❄️ Fleece leggings/sweatpants x2⁠
❄️ Ski/snow pants x1⁠
❄️ Wool socks x 3⁠
❄️ Snow/waterproof boots⁠
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on the top half...⁠
❄️ Thermals x2⁠
❄️ Cotton shirt x1⁠
❄️ Sweatshirt/fleece sweater x2⁠
❄️ Heavy-duty, awesome coat x1⁠
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extras...⁠
❄️ Scarf⁠
❄️ Beanie, headwrap, ear muffs⁠
❄️ Gloves (mittens for kids)⁠
❄️ Ski gloves⁠
❄️ Swimsuit (because...saunas are awesome!)⁠
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⫸⫸ Are you a winter-weather packing pro or a novice? ⁠
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For even more tips on what to wear in Lapland + tips on packing, check out my new post on the blog now. (🔗 in bio then look for this pic!) ⁠
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✈️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
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follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe.⁠
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#jesstagirlinFinland #rovaniemi #Visitrovaniemi #visitlapland laplandfinland #familytravelblogger #travelingfamily #travelwithkids #travelmama #kidswhotravel #travelfamily #familieswhotravel #momswhotravel #familytravel #parentswhowander #takeyourkidseverywhere #ourtribetravels #showthemtheworld #awesometravelkids #havekidswilltravel #raisingtravelers #familytraveltribe
My kids asked how old I was turning, and I told th My kids asked how old I was turning, and I told them 29 🤷🏻‍♀️

They even got me a number “29” candle to go on top of a cake 🎂 

Then my oldest asked what year I was born (I wasn’t thinking and gave her the real answer); she did the math and now she’s onto my fib 😆 

In all actuality, I’m thankful for all the 39 years I have under my belt. They’ve all added up to a wonder life 🎉 

But can I give a shout out to the real MVP of my birthday? MY MOM! She’s the one we should really be celebrating today!
❄️ We got tons of snow here over the weekend a ❄️ We got tons of snow here over the weekend and it inspired me to write about our trip to Rovaniemi, Finland 🇫🇮 this past fall. ⁠
⁠
I had every intention of keeping it short and sweet—I even started off talking about my son's super cute reindeer stuffy that he got while we were out there. ⁠
⁠
But then my “quick” post turned into a complete guide for a DIY weekend in Lapland.⁠ 🤷🏻‍♀️ it’s like I can’t help myself. 
⁠
One minute I was talking about stuffed animals and the next thing I know is that I'm doing a deep dive into our trip and spilling it all.⁠
⁠
✅ Where we stayed⁠
✅ What we ate⁠
✅ What we wore⁠
✅ Where we went⁠
✅ What we did⁠
⁠
You name it; I wrote about it. Check it out now—🔗 in bio, then look for this pic. ⁠
⁠
As always, I hope you find the blog post helpful. Feel free to ask questions, just in case I missed something! ⁠
⁠
⫸ ⫸ Is Lapland on your list yet or have you had the pleasure of visiting already? ⁠
⁠
⁠
✈️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
#jesstagirlinFinland #rovaniemi #Visitrovaniemi #visitlapland #laplandfinland #familytravelblogger #travelingfamily #travelwithkids #travelmama #kidswhotravel #travelfamily #familieswhotravel #momswhotravel #familytravel #parentswhowander #takeyourkidseverywhere #ourtribetravels #showthemtheworld #awesometravelkids #havekidswilltravel #raisingtravelers #familytraveltribe
We've been trapped in a freezing snow globe lately We've been trapped in a freezing snow globe lately, and it's making me miss sunny and colorful Portugal big time. ⁠
⁠
🌞...thankfully we have a trip planned for Morocco next month, so I just need to make it a few more weeks until we see can bask in that sunshine again. ⁠
⁠
We're also heading to Scotland this spring, but I'm packing our rain jackets and umbrellas ☔️ for that trip 😂. ⁠
⁠
⫸⫸⫸ Do you have any future sunny destinations for your vacation plans? ⁠
☟⁠
☟⁠
⁠
Want a 2-week Spain and Portugal itinerary? Find the 🔗 in my bio then look for this pic!⁠
⁠
📍@potteryportugal (Ceramica Paraiso | google tells me that they're closed until sometime in Feb. 2023 🤷🏻‍♀️) ⁠
⁠
⁠
☀️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe. ⁠⁠⁠⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#jesstagirlinPortugal #visitportugal #turismodeportugal #portugaltourism #portugaltravel #europeanroadtrip #discovereurope #havekidswilltravel #travelfam #travelwithkids #familytravel #familieswhotravel #travelingwithkids #takeyourkidseverywhere #kidswhoexplore #parentswhowander #ourtribetravels #familytrips #americanineurope #europewithkids #parentswhotravel

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🚨 This secret spot in Sicily really ROCKED! Che 🚨 This secret spot in Sicily really ROCKED! Check it out ⤵️⁠
⁠
The shores south of Syracusa, Italy, are stunning. ⁠
⁠
Crystal-clear water reflects every shade of blue you can imagine, and fun rock formations grace the coast. ⁠
⁠
🌊 We were there at high tide, and the waves crashing into the rocks were beautiful. 

You can actually swim into some of the coves (we were just passing through. The other two kids were actually asleep in the car, so Julia got her own little adventure time alone.)⁠
⁠
If we had more time it'd be awesome to catch this area at low tide. 

The sandy beaches in the area are supposed to be pretty amazing, and there were boat rentals nearby that open in the spring/summertime. ⁠
⁠
🧭 For your GPS: Ognina Beach or Asparano for the spot in the video. There's also a restaurant right there: @ognina_sunefood (it was closed when we were there in February 2022, but maybe you'll luck out).⁠
⁠
⫸⫸ Have you been to Sicily's west coast yet? ⁠
 ➳ check out the blog (🔗 in bio) for some Sicily guides!⁠
⁠
⁠
✈️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe.⁠⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
#jesstagirlinitaly #sicilyitaly #sicily #sicilytourism #syracusa #ortigia #siracusa #kidswhotravel #travelwithkids #travelingwithkids #familytravel #familieswhotravel #Familytrips #lifewelltraveled #familytravelblogger #familytravelblog #americanineurope #italywithkids #expatfamily #expatadventures #travelfamilies #travelmom #familytravels #militaryfamily #livingoverseas #militarytravel #militarymom
Here's something that doesn't get talked about muc Here's something that doesn't get talked about much when you're living overseas: feeling homesick.⁠
⁠
Long caption short: I was going to go home last month for a quick visit, but instead, the military swooped in and changed plans. I ended up solo parenting instead. ⁠
⁠
No big deal; it's not the first time plans have changed and it won't be our last. And on the bright side, I didn't buy plane tickets because we had a feeling something like this would happen.⁠
⁠
But one thing led to another and homesickness started to kick in. ⁠
⁠
Whether you're in a new city, a new state, or even a new country, you can be living your best life away from home and still feel that pang of missing "home." ⁠
⁠
Sometimes it comes in little bursts or waves and sometimes it sticks around for a little while. ⁠
⁠
I'm not an expert on this topic, so my methods to overcome homesickness are few and far between, but there are a few things that sometimes help me:⁠
⁠
📝 I write down things I miss from home⁠
AND⁠
📝 I write down things that I like about where I'm currently living. ⁠
⁠
🌟 I also talk about it with friends. Whenever I bring it up I find comfort in knowing I'm not alone. ⁠
⁠
....so if you don't feel like you have anyone to talk to, my DMs are always open.⁠
⁠
If you'd like to see my (ongoing) list of things I miss from America, I put it up on the blog (🔗 in bio; look for this pic). Let me know if you agree with them and if I'm missing anything. ⁠
⁠
Here's to sunnier days ahead :) ⁠
⁠
⁠
📍Albuquerque, New Mexico circa 2019⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe.⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠
#girlslovetravel #sheisnotlost #wearetravelgirls #ladiesgoneglobal #thetravelwomen #glt #girlsvsglobe #globelletravels #darlingescapes #girlswhotravel #livingoversas #americanineurope #girlsthatwander #travelingmom #militaryfamily #milspouse #militarymove #militarylife #travelblogger #militarywife #milspouselife #pcsmove #pcsseason #militaryblogger #oconus
WHAT WE WORE IN FINLAND (aka: what to wear if you' WHAT WE WORE IN FINLAND (aka: what to wear if you've never been in ridiculously cold weather before).⁠
⁠
I grew up in America's southwest and then lived in the humid south where a "snow day" for us meant there was a dusting of the white stuff that was gone by noon. ⁠
⁠
So traveling to Finland was TOTALLY out of my wheelhouse. Thankfully, I packed right and none of us froze. ⁠
⁠
🧳Here's a quick look at what we each took for a weekend in Lapland:⁠
⁠
on the bottom half...⁠
❄️ Thermals x2⁠
❄️ Fleece leggings/sweatpants x2⁠
❄️ Ski/snow pants x1⁠
❄️ Wool socks x 3⁠
❄️ Snow/waterproof boots⁠
⁠
on the top half...⁠
❄️ Thermals x2⁠
❄️ Cotton shirt x1⁠
❄️ Sweatshirt/fleece sweater x2⁠
❄️ Heavy-duty, awesome coat x1⁠
⁠
extras...⁠
❄️ Scarf⁠
❄️ Beanie, headwrap, ear muffs⁠
❄️ Gloves (mittens for kids)⁠
❄️ Ski gloves⁠
❄️ Swimsuit (because...saunas are awesome!)⁠
⁠
⫸⫸ Are you a winter-weather packing pro or a novice? ⁠
⁠
For even more tips on what to wear in Lapland + tips on packing, check out my new post on the blog now. (🔗 in bio then look for this pic!) ⁠
⁠
⁠
⁠
✈️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe.⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
#jesstagirlinFinland #rovaniemi #Visitrovaniemi #visitlapland laplandfinland #familytravelblogger #travelingfamily #travelwithkids #travelmama #kidswhotravel #travelfamily #familieswhotravel #momswhotravel #familytravel #parentswhowander #takeyourkidseverywhere #ourtribetravels #showthemtheworld #awesometravelkids #havekidswilltravel #raisingtravelers #familytraveltribe
My kids asked how old I was turning, and I told th My kids asked how old I was turning, and I told them 29 🤷🏻‍♀️

They even got me a number “29” candle to go on top of a cake 🎂 

Then my oldest asked what year I was born (I wasn’t thinking and gave her the real answer); she did the math and now she’s onto my fib 😆 

In all actuality, I’m thankful for all the 39 years I have under my belt. They’ve all added up to a wonder life 🎉 

But can I give a shout out to the real MVP of my birthday? MY MOM! She’s the one we should really be celebrating today!
❄️ We got tons of snow here over the weekend a ❄️ We got tons of snow here over the weekend and it inspired me to write about our trip to Rovaniemi, Finland 🇫🇮 this past fall. ⁠
⁠
I had every intention of keeping it short and sweet—I even started off talking about my son's super cute reindeer stuffy that he got while we were out there. ⁠
⁠
But then my “quick” post turned into a complete guide for a DIY weekend in Lapland.⁠ 🤷🏻‍♀️ it’s like I can’t help myself. 
⁠
One minute I was talking about stuffed animals and the next thing I know is that I'm doing a deep dive into our trip and spilling it all.⁠
⁠
✅ Where we stayed⁠
✅ What we ate⁠
✅ What we wore⁠
✅ Where we went⁠
✅ What we did⁠
⁠
You name it; I wrote about it. Check it out now—🔗 in bio, then look for this pic. ⁠
⁠
As always, I hope you find the blog post helpful. Feel free to ask questions, just in case I missed something! ⁠
⁠
⫸ ⫸ Is Lapland on your list yet or have you had the pleasure of visiting already? ⁠
⁠
⁠
✈️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
.⁠⁠
#jesstagirlinFinland #rovaniemi #Visitrovaniemi #visitlapland #laplandfinland #familytravelblogger #travelingfamily #travelwithkids #travelmama #kidswhotravel #travelfamily #familieswhotravel #momswhotravel #familytravel #parentswhowander #takeyourkidseverywhere #ourtribetravels #showthemtheworld #awesometravelkids #havekidswilltravel #raisingtravelers #familytraveltribe
We've been trapped in a freezing snow globe lately We've been trapped in a freezing snow globe lately, and it's making me miss sunny and colorful Portugal big time. ⁠
⁠
🌞...thankfully we have a trip planned for Morocco next month, so I just need to make it a few more weeks until we see can bask in that sunshine again. ⁠
⁠
We're also heading to Scotland this spring, but I'm packing our rain jackets and umbrellas ☔️ for that trip 😂. ⁠
⁠
⫸⫸⫸ Do you have any future sunny destinations for your vacation plans? ⁠
☟⁠
☟⁠
⁠
Want a 2-week Spain and Portugal itinerary? Find the 🔗 in my bio then look for this pic!⁠
⁠
📍@potteryportugal (Ceramica Paraiso | google tells me that they're closed until sometime in Feb. 2023 🤷🏻‍♀️) ⁠
⁠
⁠
☀️ SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER⁠
---------⤹⤹---------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
follow @jesstagirl for more fun around Europe. ⁠⁠⁠⁠
.⁠
.⁠
.⁠
#jesstagirlinPortugal #visitportugal #turismodeportugal #portugaltourism #portugaltravel #europeanroadtrip #discovereurope #havekidswilltravel #travelfam #travelwithkids #familytravel #familieswhotravel #travelingwithkids #takeyourkidseverywhere #kidswhoexplore #parentswhowander #ourtribetravels #familytrips #americanineurope #europewithkids #parentswhotravel

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