Currently: July 2025
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Currently Enjoying: Family Field Trips
It’s wild to me that we have less than a month left of summer before our big kids return to school. I absolutely love planning fun and unique activities to do with the boys during summer break and genuinely look forward to heading out on various adventures with them all summer long. Though we often do fun things for no reason at all, this summer we came up with a way for the boys to have a little more say in the things we do. You may read more about our summer chore chart system in this blog post, but the short version is that once the boys have accumulated a certain number of points they can choose an activity for all of us to do together. (They may also opt for an alternate prize like family movie night on a weeknight, something we typically reserve for the weekends.)
This system has encouraged us to get out and do some new-to-us things like visiting a grabber claw store (yes, a store completely filled with grabber claw machines), various trampoline parks (Groupon has come in clutch for this!), new-to-us parks, water play places, etc. I swear I’ve enjoyed this system just as much as the kids!
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Currently Reading: Annie Bot by Sierra Greer
This book was added to my library holds list after a couple of you recommended it to me! I added it fully trusting your recommendations, as the premise didn’t exactly intrigue me. A robot woman main character? The world of AI? While this is exactly my typical interest arena, I’ve enjoyed my fair share of sci-fi novels in the past, so I figured I’d give it a shot. I’m glad I did because it instantly grabbed my attention. I’m about halfway through this novel and it’s been a wildly entertaining read.
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Currently Donating to: Convoy of Hope for Texas Flood Relief
My heart hurts so much for those impacted by the Texas floods. Reading about the lives lost in this catastrophic event, especially the young lives, just ripped my heart open. There are certain tragedies you read about that stick with you as you feel like you’re reading about a true nightmare.
One thing I took away from living close to an area impacted by flooding when Hurricane Helene horrifically impacted western North Carolina is just how deeply people care and want to help. We ran all over the place collecting items to donate and stores in our area were wiped clean of items on WNC donation request lists. I’m not as physically close to Texas but fully trust the work done by Convoy of Hope (it has the highest possible rating from Charity Navigator) and wanted to share this organization here today as well in case you’d like to join me in donating to help in some small way. And if you live close to the areas of Texas directly impacted by the floods and have other resources you’d like to share, I welcome them in the comments section.
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Currently Drinking: LMNT Citrus Salt Electrolytes
My friend Leah brought a box of single packs of LMNT electrolytes to our girls’ weekend in Orlando last month and I cannot tell you how wonderful sipping on a giant water bottle of citrus salt electrolyte water tasted after a few drinks the day/night before. While I still love my Ultima and Burn Boot Camp electrolytes, I ordered a big box of LMNT to add to my arsenal as it has a saltier flavor I really enjoy when I don’t want something as sweet. As always, I super-dilute my electrolytes and add one packet of LMNT to my 64-ounce water jug and still find it plenty flavorful.
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Currently Watching: All the Sharks (Family) + Bachelor in Paradise (Me)
As a family: All the Sharks (Netflix) This show popped up as a recommended show on our kids’ Netflix profile and it’s been such a hit with our crew. We watch a movie or show together on the weekends for family movie night and nature/animal shows are some of our favorites. All the Sharks has been a fun one as it includes interesting facts about sharks and gorgeous videography but the premise of the show is a reality competition! Teams of two scuba dive all around the world and compete to take the most pictures of various kinds of sharks. The rarer or trickier to spot, the more points a shark is worth!
Myself: Bachelor in Paradise (ABC/Hulu) I haven’t watched a season of the Bachelor/Bachelorette in yearsss but when I was visiting my parents last week, my mom recorded the first episode of Bachelor in Paradise and we watched it together. Dang this show has changed a LOT (the editing, I mean), and even though I don’t know 3/4 of the contestants competing, it’s been a fun guilty pleasure to stream. I’m only two episodes in but fully invested in the Susie/Justin relationship drama.
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Currently Anticipating: ALASKA!!!
We leave for Alaska next week! AHHHH! To say our family is anxiously awaiting this trip is a huge understatement. We’re talking about it non-stop in our house and feeling so incredibly excited about the biggest trip we’ve ever done together. Right now I’m also trying to think though packing for Alaska and ensuring we have all the clothing and gear we need. If you’ve ever been to Alaska and have any packing/clothing/gear tips, I welcome your advice!
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Currently Browsing: The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
I’m a little late to the game on this one but finally had the chance to browse the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale yesterday. I like shopping this sale for discounts on my beauty favorites, kid clothing staples, jackets/outerwear, sneakers, etc. This year I primarily used the sale to restock some beauty favorites, get a few back-to-school clothing items for the boys in the next size up as well as a few finds for our Alaska trip.
You may browse a few of the sale items I thought were especially good finds on my ShopMy page if you’d like to see my short roundup!
Fashion:
- True & Co. Bra: My most-worn bra on sale for $28.99
- Adidas SL 72 Sneakers: A cute alternative to Sambas and I find my pair even more comfortable!
- Moonlight Pajamas: So crazy comfy. I have these pajamas in two different colors and lengths and have gifted them to my mom and sister as well. (I wear my long sleeve + pants pair most.) Love the new pink stripe pattern here!
- CZ Tennis Bracelet: I wear my tennis bracelet all the time.
- FRAME Bubble Jeans: My absolute favorite splurge-worthy jeans! I have them in the lighter wash and saw more sizes in the dark wash were restocked this morning. I ordered a pair SO fast. Even on sale they’re expensive but they’re a true dream for those with hips, quads and a booty.
- Hooded Rain Anorak: A gorgeous, classic raincoat. I ordered this one and have high hopes!
- Free People Sunshine Smiles Tee: A happy little tee I couldn’t resist ordering.
Beauty:
- Supergoop! Sunscreen Spray: A trio of my favorite spray sunscreen $23 off its usual price! The spray sunscreen is my favorite for reapplying at the beach/pool.
- Necessaire Body Lotion: A dream fragrance-free clean beauty lotion and I love the pump top!
- VOLO Hero Hair Towel: I’ve had and loved mine for years. I use this gentle towel every time I wash my hair and swear it reduces drying time.
- Living Proof Dry Shampoo: The only dry shampoo I’ve used for years and the only reason I can get away with washing my hair every 4-5 days.
- ORIBE Dry Texturizing Spray: My hair is super fine and very silky so I love using this product to add a little grit and texture to help with styling.
- NARS Powder Blush: A classic I’ve used and loved since college.
- PMD Personal Microderm Device: For at-home microdermabrasion treatments. I have and love this!
Home:
- Our Place Wonder Oven: My sister and her husband love this clean-c00king air fryer/toaster oven/do anything appliance.
- Le Creuset Butter Crock: A must in our house as we go through a lot of butter and I haaave to have it room temp for spreading.
- Blissy Silk Pillowcase: The pillowcase I sleep on every night.
- UGG Blanket + Eye Mask Set: So cozy and a great one to have on hand for holiday gifting.
Kids:
- Adidas Crew Socks: I ordered these for the boys during the last Nordstrom sale and they’ve held up very well with no holes/major signs of wear.
- Tucker + Tate Organic Joggers: I’ve been ordering these exact joggers for the boys for years.
- Petit Lem Organic Cotton Pajamas: I ordered the dragon pattern jammies for Rhett for his birthday!
- Tucker + Tate Flannel Hooded Shirt: I’ve also purchased 2 versions of this top for the boys in the past because I love the flannel + hoodie look! So cute open with a tee or buttoned up and it passes the hand-me-down test.
Question of the Day
Pick a few “Currently” topics above and share!
- Currently reading…
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I went to Alaska last summer for a wedding and my advice is layers! The weather was constantly changing, so we usually head out for the day with a t-shirt underneath, a sweatshirt over that, and then a light jacket because there were often pop-up rain showers or winds. Bring a little of everything- I brought everything from shorts and tanks to heavy hoodies and jeans and wore them all!
Thank you for this advice!! Any tips on footwear? I was planning on sneakers + waterproof boots but would love your insight!!
Was going to say the same thing. Depending on where you are the weather is all over the place. Bring layers! Alaska is breathtaking. I know you all will enjoy.
Alaska is amazing! We cruised there in July, 2024 and did everything from swim/sunbathe in bathing suits to winter hats/gear on glacier days. If you are cruising, ship was warm. Most people wished they had more short sleeves. I loved having a thermal cup for hot drinks, small crossbody to have phone and chapstick accessible at all times and packed snacks for excursion days to help with costs and to not spend time always eating.
Thank you for weighing in — so glad you had such a wonderful time visiting Alaska! We are not doing a cruise but do plan to see glaciers and will def bring cold weather clothes!
Again I did a little of everything – one pair of waterproof sandals (for exploring the beach front and streams and hot springs), a pair of sneakers, and water resistant hiking boots. Have so much fun- it’s so beautiful. I went solo since the wedding was the first week of school for my kids, but I can’t wait to go back with them.
Oh I didn’t even think of waterproof sandals — thank you!!
I can not tell you how happy it makes me that you and Ryan are donating to Convoy of Hope. I personally know the good things they do. Excellent choice!
I’m so glad to hear this from someone with personal + direct knowledge of their work <3 <3
I bought the LMNT lemonade flavor for summer and it is AMAZING! Have fun on your trip!
oooh i’ll have to try that one!
I am currently anticipating your trip to alaska!!! ☺️ I can’t wait to hear everything about it and how you ended up planning it out!!
Hi, Alaskan here! You will definitely want rain boots for everyone (tall ones are best for tidepooling!) and sneakers. Extra socks for the kids for when they inevitably get their feet wet splashing at the beach. Multiple layers and hats are key. Bring a rain jacket and warm hat. Sunscreen and bug spray. Bring some hot hands hand warmers. They are so nice when it gets cold. But you are truly coming at the best time of year! I hope you have lovely weather!
Thank you for these tips!! Just ordered hand warmers — never thought of that one but I remember they were so helpful when I was a kid and freezing on a family vacation to Yellowstone.
Alaska is amazing – I’m so excited for your family’s trip! Like others said, layers are great. I might also pack some mosquito head nets—we didn’t use ours very often, but they are small & lightweight and we were so glad to have them when we needed them. Have the best time! I hope you see lots of cool wildlife for your nature-loving kids!!
Alaska Bear Spray Exchange on Facebook allows you to borrow bear spray canisters during your visit and return them for others to use before you head home. We picked up a few cans for hiking at drop-off sites in local hotels and stores. It is a great site that saves money and gives peace of mind while hiking. Safe travels!
I also wanted to comment to say how much you will LOVE Alaska! We went in June when our kids were about the same ages. It was incredible! Best family trip ever! One thing to check for is any required clothing on excursions- my husband and son did a fly fishing float on the Kenai and we ended up having to buy specific boots there that we had at home but didn’t know to bring. And also be prepared for the very late sundowns- if they are used to sleeping in the dark, anything to help wind down without that darkness at bedtime. You will be absolutely amazed- have a blast!
Where in Alaska are you headed? Michael and Evan went to Juneau in 2007, staying in the Alaska Wolf House B&B with Evan’s youth group and they kept a pretty extensive blog about it that’s still active: J2Alaska.blogspot.com Their details are old, but their memories are pretty clear… it was an incredible experience for all 18 youth and 4 adults.
We’ll primarily be in Anchorage and Seward!
Check and see if where you are staying has black out shades. If not, a few large black trash bags and some tape may be helpful with kids trying to go to bed before the sun goes down. I went to Alaska pre-kids and even my husband and I struggled with this! I slept sooo good when we rotated hotels and the last one we were in had black out shades.
We went on an Alaskan cruise August 2022 and I can tell you this FL girl was COLD! I never went swimming or wore shorts or short sleeves. Some places were very rainy so rain jackets yes! Also changes of shoes in case they get wet yes! If you go near the glaciers you will definitely need warm jackets! Otherwise enjoy all the wildlife!
Agreed, fellow Alaskan here. Multiple layers (wool if you have them) but check the weather because it can also be warm depending on where you are going (Anchorage versus SE Alaska could be very different). You will probably be limited on what you can bring for three kids but here are some other options: short wetsuits if you will be near water and if your kids get cold, mosquito head nets (again, not totally critical unless you are camping). There are plenty of stores in the bigger cities (Anchorage has Costco) and even most of the smaller ones if you forget something. Eye masks for the family if your kids are sensitive to light and won’t sleep as well if it is bright.
I live in Anchorage and have a 2 and 4 year old.
In Anchorage with kids, can rent bikes and ride the coastal trail, Anchorage Zoo (but probably not as exciting if you have access to big zoos). The Anchorage Museum is excellent and has a kids area. Spenard Roadhouse is a fun kids place with good food. Driving up to Glen Alps trailhead would give you lots of options for out and back trailheads that would have great views and you could decide which trail and how far you wanted to go.
On the way down to Seward, the Alaska Wildlife Center is a good kids stop, and lots of good places to eat in Girdwood. It would be just a bit out of the way but the the Byron Glacier is a short trail with stunning views just past Girdwood that would be an excellent kid hike. Also on drive down ice cream at Cooper Landing’s Wildmans store if you need a break. Sea Life Center and Tonsina Beach in Seward are great options, as the Exit Glacier. Resurrection coffeehouse = amazing.
Ok, I got carried away. Have a great trip!
This is INCREDIBLY helpful!!!!!! Thank you, thank you for taking the time to type this up for us!!! I cannot tell you how helpful it is to hear from someone who lives in Alaska and has kids and can provide kid-friendly ideas. Truly welcome any/all of your insight/advice!
I would love to get your email to chat about planning a trip to Alaska!!
Such a random question but how do you decide between swimming in the pool or swimming in the lake? Just whatever you’re in the mood for? Been wondering haha!
Bug spray. Don’t forget the bug spray.
hi Julie! I lived in Alaska for 4 years, initially in Wasilla and then moved into the great big town of Anchorage 🙂 . Your family is going to absolutely love it there, the trails and scenery is breathtaking! I think the boys would love Earthquake Park, located on this beautiful trail that wraps around the water. In regard to what to bring: eye masks (I really struggled with sleep in the summers there!), layers, bug spray and some great hiking shoes. You may not need boots depending upon the trails you do, a pair of trail running shoes will usually suffice for the more family friendly hikes. Have an amazing time, looking forward to seeing your photos!
Wonderful post
We’re going to Alaska in September!!!! The Northern Lights are on my bucket list! We will fly into Fairbanks and out of Anchorage. Our trip will be 7 fill days! Cannot wait to hear what you do since 4-5 days of our time will be in the Anchorage and Kenai area!
Loved our trip to Alaska! Favorite town was Seward. Stunning!
What an exciting trip! We went last August, and I totally agree on the layers. I wore a stocking hat and sunglasses almost the entire time, but would go between short sleeves, sweatshirt, and medium weight jacket. I don’t think I ever wore shorts. We fished, so rain gear and rain boots were a must for us. Also, it is significantly colder next to the glaciers, I had ALL my layers on for that😂 Also, our B&B had laundry, so we did wash a time or two while we were there. We only took a carry-on for seven days, so we re-washed and re-wore those bulkier layers. An eye mask came in super handy as well! Alaska is breathtaking, enjoy your trip!