The Mom Travel Journal
Stories, reflections, and real moments from traveling with littles.
Travel with kids is equal parts magic and meltdown — and everything in between.
This journal is where I share the real stuff: the tiny wins, the lessons learned the hard way, and the moments that surprised me in the best (and funniest) ways.
Think of this as the cozy corner of the trip — the part where you finally sit down, take a breath, and say:
“Oh… it’s not just me.”
The Airport Bathroom Breakdown (and the Nod That Saved Me)
We cried in an airport bathroom — both of us. Then another mom gave me the nod that said, “You’re not alone.” And honestly? I needed it.
The Carry-On Bag That Kept Me Sane
Turns out the secret to traveling with kids isn’t packing more — it’s packing smarter. And maybe surrendering to snacks-as-peace-offerings.
Proof That Bedtime Can Go Well on Vacation
White noise, shared blankets, and our “Rainbow Tree” bedtime story. One night on the road actually worked — and I’m still emotionally processing it.
The Day I Stopped Trying to “Make It a Day”
The day we didn’t try to do anything “special” — and ended up making one of our favorite memories anyway.
The Snack That Has Ended More Meltdowns Than Words Ever Have
Sometimes the kindest thing is a snack break. Fruit snacks have rescued more moments than deep breathing ever has — and I’m not ashamed.
The Playground Test (How We Decide What to Do When We Travel)
We choose the small, local playgrounds — they’re where she learns a new place by playing in it, and where I get to just watch her grow.
The Rainbow Tree (Our Bedtime Story That Travels With Us)
Keira and Ellie run to the Rainbow Tree every night. The Mushroom People are always waiting. It’s our bedtime ritual — our home we bring everywhere.
Saying Goodbye (sending a message from the heart)
“Put a message in your heart and send it with a kiss.”
How my daughter taught me a new way to say goodbye.