The Explore All 50 States Project
Let's Go!
This morning my middle son, Isaac, left for a college application seminar at his school. I still find it hard to believe, Isaac-the little boy with the infectious laugh is now a senior in high school and about to pen that rite of passage-the college essay. When my kids and I embarked on this project to explore all 50 states 11 years ago I hadn't even thought about how all these adventures and memories might come … [Read more...]
Immigration has been in the news quite a bit lately, from the plight of mothers and children held at detention centers, to the deportation or lack thereof of illegal immigrants who commit crimes, immigration is the hot topic du jour. Candidates for president are bringing this issue to the forefront and it really made me reflect on what I saw on our last trip (trip #16) when we visited Ellis Island-the now closed … [Read more...]
When I told my kids our first stop was Baltimore they were a little put off with images of gritty city life with run down streets. I will admit Baltimore does have some sort or tough urban reputation to those not in the know but once we set foot in the city any illusions we had were quickly shattered. We found ourselves in a beautiful city rich with cultural heritage and diversity set against the backdrop of deeply … [Read more...]
And now back from our latest road trip it's time to update top 10 ice cream list. Ice cream is our sweet tooth obsession and we try it wherever we go. Having now covered 46 of the 50 states here are our all time faves. Luscious flavors, chunky mix-ins and yummy swirls are so tough to resist-and sometimes top quality brings out the best in simple flavors. Here's our best of the best guide-try any of these and we … [Read more...]
One of the first things my kids and I do as we plan a road trip is to find out what is the city's top ice cream spot. Doing a little digging and reading the reviews, all arrows pointed to the Charmery as a place we just had to check out. Interestingly enough, Lilia's college friends based in Baltimore hadn't heard of it so we sent them to do a little reconnaissance and they came back with huge thumbs up. It just goes … [Read more...]
I don't know about you, but I find graveyards a welcoming place and not spooky at all. Though this was a very quick stop, we felt it was important to pay homage to one of America's most famous poets. Sadly as we made our way to the gate of Westminster Hall and Burying Ground we soon realized the gate to get in was locked as there was some sort of construction project going on. Seems they are refurbishing or … [Read more...]
There is not much worse when you are traveling than finding out your ID and credit cards have all gone missing. That nightmare scenario played out for me on trip #16 to NY, NJ, and PA as we toured Ellis Island adjacent to the Statue of Liberty. After an extensive walking tour learning about how new immigrants were processed once they arrived, we headed to the gift shop. I remember giving Joel some money for a … [Read more...]
I can only imagine the patriotism that was stirred in the hearts of those who saw our Star Spangled Banner as she flew after the British attacks at Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor in 1813. Standing within the fort my heart swelled imagining those brave souls who risked life and limb for their love of country. If you are fortunate to visit the city of Baltimore, you absolutely cannot miss this … [Read more...]
Visiting sports stadiums is a popular bucket list item. I am proudly part of that club. My family has a goal to see a hockey home game at every stadium-so far I'm only up to 5 so we've got a long way to go. The number one sport by far for sport stadium bucket lists though is Baseball and completing that goal in 2006 led reader and school teacher Thomas DeAngelo to reach for an even greater goal-seeing all 50. As … [Read more...]
Honestly, my kids and I had no idea what to expect at this "Museum of Pop Culture" located right across the street from Camden Yards, but I am so glad we didn't miss it. I am not sure my kids got as much out of it as I did but it was still a fun adventure for all involved (not to mention a great excuse to get into an air-conditioned building on a sweltering day). The best part was that my kids got to know a side of … [Read more...]
