Green Bay Area Mom

The iconic family road trip. The video store shelves are flooded with comedies written about these all-important rites of summertime passage. Why? Because nine times out of 10, they quickly devolve into unmitigated catastrophes.

Summers don’t last long in Wisconsin. So, don’t let this summer pass you by! Here are six family-friendly destinations to consider. All you need is a reliable vehicle, a couple gallons of gas, and an adventurous spirit.

If you are like me, you have had “THOSE DAYS”. “Those days” are the days that the kids decide to see how long my patience will last. At every turn, I have a child who is distracted, bored or just plain tired. And speaking of tired, there are “those days” that I am just plain tired. Maybe I am not feeling well, or traveling, or just in need of a break.

I used to keep a daily journal for about 18 years of my life.  It was adorable in my elementary school years, cathartic in my teenage years, and kept track of momentous occasions in my college and young adult years.  My entries were lengthy, filled with emotion, and someday I hope my kids read my old journals (someday in the VERY distant future).

Plenty of websites offer how to find the best deals, so I’m not talking about that today.  What I want to talk about is what to DO with all those school supplies.  There are such great deals available, if you can, buy extra.

The love stories. They are everywhere. Blogs, youtube videos. The minivan gets some major love via social media. Maybe all those love stories built my expectations up too high. Letdown was inevitable. Don't get me wrong, I fully recognize the practicality of the van.  With four young kids it made total sense for us. The double stroller fits without issue, even on nights when we have to pack up the baseball equipment, cooler, and lawn chairs. This vehicle by far has more bells and whistles than any other we've ever had.  Leather interior, navigation, dvd player, and it rides incredibly smooth. But, I don't love it. In fact, when I drive my bare-bones, base model 10 year-old GMC Acadia, I savor it.

I’m telling you, if something has the power to make you appreciate everything around you, make you have more empathy and compassion and generosity towards others and also grows your faith and positive attitude – everyone should have it.

Lily was diagnosed at age 4. You’ve read our story through diagnosis. Fast forward over the next few years, and we find Lily in 3rd grade. She has now dealt with having JIA for 4 years. While you’d think that...

July...soon it will be a distant memory. It seems as though summer is going by way too quickly, but the arrival of August means one thing: the Wisconsin State Fair! Gates open August 3rd and the fun continues through August 13th. So, break out the elastic pants and gear up for cheese curds, cream puffs, music, rides and animals! In other words, get ready to have some great family FUN!

When I left you last, Lily had just began methotrexate, and was having a rough time. Luckily for us, she was one of the fortunate ones that was able to somewhat adapt to the meds. After a while, the sickness with each dose stopped. Saturdays were still days of extreme tiredness post shot, but as long as we administered the shot in the morning, she wouldn’t get physically ill.