Big News…

We found out this week, we are headed home come the holidays.   We were never sure if it would be an option at the end of this experience.   So when the opportunity came, we knew it was meant to be. It is hard to imagine all of this being over.  I have never …

Pack for a Purpose

Have you heard of Pack for a Purpose?  This past weekend, I had to the chance to learn firsthand what their program was all about. From their website, you search out your vacation destination and find a list of non-profits that you can choose to help.  You will then be able to find a list …

An Ode to the Tall House

I have always felt a special connection to my homes.  More than most maybe, but I feel the energy and love we have put into them and I can recall the ways the shadows danced on all my walls.  So it is no surprise that this house I don't own, in a country that is …

Book Review: Misunderstood

I am reading a new book, Misunderstood by Tanya Crossman, a more modern version of the classic Third Culture Kids.  I have bookmarked so many amazing and relevant subjects in this book.   It seems every other page, I am nodding away in agreement. Understanding the unique situation of transitioning in and out of an …

On Having Help

I have wanted and waited to write this post since we first got here 2 years ago.   I knew I needed more time to sort it all out and to experience the true impact in our household.  There is a lot of conversation and thought that goes into how I will write this post, …

The Story of Cartagena Door-Knockers

It doesn't take long to notice the many amazing doors in Cartagena's old city.  They are either brightly colored or pastel, weathered or new, but always grand in size and style.   They frame out the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture and tell a story of the social and professional history of the families that lived …

Growing Up Expat: Traveling with an Introvert

I wanted to talk a little bit about traveling with your family for longer than a typical vacation.  Being out of your own space for longer than a week can present its own side effects.  As my children get older, there are different needs that need to be met in order for everyone to have …

2 Years In…

This was by far the smoothest transition back into life in Cartagena that we have had yet.  I know it is different for everyone, but the longer we are here the easier it is to come back from a break. My kids started school in the most normal way possible and we jumped back into …

Summer Recap: Planes, Trains and Automobiles

On our last leg of our summer, we did the most actual traveling... mini road trips, flights, taxi cabs, trains and more flights.  Our fist stop was Santa Cruz for a very special family wedding. The great thing about a cousin getting married is that it is the perfect excuse to see all of your …

Travel Packing – Send Help

With as much as I travel, I must admit, I am a terrible packer.   I start 3 weeks in advance only to scramble at the last-minute, usually bringing way too much stuff and rifle through my suitcase constantly during my trip looking for what I need.  Of course I always find what I'm looking …