Ready Set Depart

Did you know the United States has a brand-new national park? Because I didn't! When I heard that Chiricahua had become America's 64th national park, I immediately started looking at pictures, checking the map, and wondering how I'd never heard of this place before.

In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I'm taking you along as I discover Chiricahua National Park in southeastern Arizona. We're talking about the incredible rock formations known as the Wonderland of Rocks, the volcanic eruption that created them, the history of the Chiricahua Apache, and the fascinating story of Faraway Ranch.

I'm also looking into what families can actually do there, from scenic drives and shorter hikes to Junior Ranger activities and stargazing in an International Dark Sky Park.

And because I can't research a national park without starting to plan a trip, we'll talk about flying into Tucson, renting a car, and possibly combining Chiricahua with Saguaro National Park for an Arizona vacation.

I haven't visited Chiricahua yet, but it's already moving up my wish list. Come discover why this lesser-known park might deserve a spot on yours too!

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What if the perfect family vacation is somewhere there really isn't that much to do?

Westport, Washington, has been one of our family's favorite places for years, and that's a big part of the reason why. It's quieter and less touristy than some other Washington coast towns, with working fishing boats in the marina, miles of cold beaches, plenty of room to fly a kite, and absolutely no pressure to pack your day with activities.

In this episode, I'm sharing why we keep coming back to Westport, from taking our babymoon there to watching Trooper grow up beachcombing along the same beaches. We'll talk about fishing, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse, our favorite cornbread and taffy stops, spectacular sunsets when the Washington clouds cooperate, and why you should probably check the tide before visiting Bottle Beach.

There are also approximately 50 fish heads, a seasick fishing charter, and one runaway octopus kite that Trooper still doesn't find nearly as funny as Brent and I do.

If your family could use a vacation where slowing down is actually the plan, come with us to Westport.

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If you have a kid who loves LEGO, you’ve probably wondered: Is LEGOLAND California actually worth adding to a Southern California vacation? And maybe more importantly, is there a “right” age to go?

For about a year, we lived just 30 minutes from LEGOLAND California, so we had the chance to visit a couple of times when Trooper was 10. He had fun, but I couldn’t help thinking we should have taken him a few years earlier.

In this episode, I’m sharing what we loved, what we didn’t, the things I wish we’d known before we went, and why I think ages 5–8 may be the LEGOLAND sweet spot.

If LEGOLAND California is on your family travel list, I hope our experience helps you decide whether it’s worth it for your family and, maybe even more importantly, whether now is the right time to go.

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Sometimes it's fun to take a break from destination guides, travel tips, and itineraries and simply celebrate the different ways families travel. That's exactly what we're doing in this episode.

Brent joins me as we work our way through a series of "This or That" travel questions - read by Trooper himself. We’re haring our answers, debating a few of them, and discovering where we agree (and where we definitely don't!). Along the way, you'll get a little glimpse into how our family travels and the personalities that shape our adventures.

As you listen, you may find yourself nodding along, laughing at our reasoning, or realizing you'd make completely different choices. There aren't any right or wrong answers, just a fun conversation about the little decisions that make every family vacation unique. We had so much fun recording this one, and I think you'll have just as much fun listening.

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Did you know Washington, D.C. is home to not one, but two Smithsonian Air & Space Museums? In this episode, I'm comparing the National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall with the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, so you can decide which one is the best fit for your family. We'll talk about the biggest differences, the can't-miss exhibits like the Wright Flyer, Space Shuttle Discovery, and Concorde, plus travel tips to help you make the most of your visit. If you're planning a Washington, D.C. vacation and wondering which Air & Space Museum is worth your time, this episode will help you choose with confidence. 

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America is turning 250, and there's never been a better time to explore the history, stories, and places that make this country unique.

In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I will share simple and meaningful ways families can celebrate America's 250th Birthday (the Semiquincentennial) while sneaking in a little learning along the way. From reading the Declaration of Independence and visiting museums to earning Junior Ranger badges, tracing your family history, planning a road trip, and discovering surprising pieces of American history, you'll find plenty of ideas that are both educational and fun.

You'll also learn about the Freedom Plane traveling exhibit, a free 250th Anniversary mini-course from Beautiful Feet Books, and the fascinating story behind America's National Floral Emblem, the rose.

Whether you're a homeschooling family, a history lover, or simply looking for ways to make this milestone anniversary memorable, this episode is packed with inspiration to help your family celebrate 250 years of America.

Resources Mentioned:
• Freedom Plane
• Beautiful Feet Books 250th Anniversary Mini-Course
• Meadow & Mountain's National Rose Story and Design

Happy 250th Birthday, America!

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Planning a trip to Washington, DC but feeling intimidated by the Metro system? In this episode, I break down everything families need to know about riding the Washington, DC Metro, from getting a SmarTrip card and navigating stations to understanding train colors, destinations, and transfers. I'll share practical tips for using Google Maps, avoiding common mistakes, and making public transportation in DC much less stressful. Plus, I'll highlight some of our favorite attractions in Washington, DC and the best Metro stations to use for each one. If you're visiting the nation's capital with kids, this beginner-friendly guide to the DC Metro will help you explore more and worry less. 

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Do you want to hear the story of how a pig almost started a war between the United States and Great Britain? This week, we’re heading to San Juan Island in Washington State to talk about ferries, whale watching, lavender fields, beachcombing, and the famous Pig War. In this episode, I’m sharing everything your family needs to know to plan a trip to one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific Northwest, including where to stay, what to do, how to spot orcas, and why the ferry ride is part of the adventure. If your family loves wildlife, history, tide pools, and slow-paced outdoor adventure, San Juan Island might just become one of your favorite family travel destinations. 

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If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing wild ponies running along the coast, this episode is for you. Today, we’re heading to Chincoteague Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore to talk about boat tours, beaches, wildlife, lighthouses, and of course, the world famous Chincoteague ponies that inspired Misty of Chincoteague. We share the best ways to see the ponies, family-friendly hikes in the Refuge, where to stay, what surprised us most about the beaches, and why this quiet island makes such a fun long weekend getaway for families. Plus, we’ll talk Junior Ranger programs, ice cream worth waiting in line for, and the one travel mistake we learned the hard way so you don’t have to. 

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If Star Wars Nite at Disneyland has been on your radar, this is the episode that will help you decide if it’s worth it… and how to make the most of it. We’re breaking down what Disney After Dark events are really like, from late-night park access and shorter ride lines to exclusive food, merch, and experiences you won’t find during the day. You’ll get our top 10 tips, including when to arrive, what to wear, how to plan your food orders, and why costumes can make or break your night. We’re also sharing what surprised us most after going multiple times and who this event is best suited for (especially when you’re traveling with kids). If you’re thinking about going, this will help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy every minute.

Sound Effect by freesound_community from Pixabay

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