Layering 101 (Kid Edition)

If you read my earlier post about tips for getting kids (or anyone really) outside comfortable, you are probably sick of me shouting LAYERS LAYERS LAYERS across your screen. I know I'm being obnoxious about it but a layering system is essential to staying dry and comfortable outside, especially with the ever-changing weather here in New England. 

This topic felt so important and detailed that it deserved its own post (welcome!). When I plan to spend time in the outdoors with my family, I want to be prepared. I wanted to research the importance of each layer, different materials, different brands, and clothing items that fit the bill. This blog is a way to share all of that research with you, doing all the hard work so you don't have to. I learned a lot in this deep dive and today we are talking about merino wool, synthetic layers, the best water repellant shells, and more. These brands are tried and true and range from big names like Patagonia, companies from Nordic countries who know a thing or two about weather, and small family-run businesses here in the U.S. 

Winding Trails - XC Ski and Outdoor Activity Center in Farmington, CT

I love downhill skiing but it wasn't something I grew up doing. It wasn't until I was in my 20s that I put on my first pair of skis. I never touched the bunny slope but instead, a boyfriend convinced me to take the lift up and ski down the green trail where I nearly close lined myself skiing off the trail. Despite my disastrous start, something clicked. From there it was winter weekends in Vermont, two years in Salt Lake City, and then a few random ski trips to Wyoming, Colorado and Canada. I've skied some wonderful terrain and season passes like Epic and Ikon certainly make the sport a bit more affordable for someone who wants to spend their winters on skis. 

While season passes help, it's still an expensive hobby when you factor in lunch at the lodge, childcare, dog sitting, and likely lodging. Let's also consider just how busy and overcrowded some of our resorts are which leads to long lift lines and safety concerns. I love downhill skiing but I am also open to a more family and fido inclusive affordable way to enjoy the winter with a bit more solitude. 

Cue Cross Country Skiing. 

Cybex Libelle - Travel Stroller Review

If you told me three years ago I would own four different strollers/trailers, I would have laughed at you. It sounds ridiculous, right? Okay, hear me out. If you are active and on the go, you need at least a few different strollers for different reasons. Our UppaBaby Vista v2 is the perfect everyday stroller. It's clunky but there are so many features that make it the perfect everyday stroller (huge storage basket, adaptable for two seats, large sun canopy, great infant bassinet and adjustable toddler seat). For running, I needed a true jogging stroller, something with a single lockable front wheel, and something that is smoother and off-roads a bit better. We also have a bike trailer that converts to a two kiddo running stroller and ski sled and I take this out on a run sometimes when I want a covered shelter for him.

Winters with Whitney - Getting Outside in Winter with Kids

If there is one thing I have learned from a life as a New Englander, it's this: you have to find something you love to do in every season. Summers in the northeast are insanely special but there is a bit of magic in every season. Short days and cold temps often mean that winter is a dreaded season but I'm hoping this post changes your mind. 

If you are reading this and thinking "why would I go outside when it's below freezing", there are a few good reasons and it starts with changing your perspective. Winter isn't "cold stay inside" season, it's "get outside there are less people and no bugs" season. Solitude and not a mosquito in sight is the break we all needed from crowded parks and bugspray.

On The Go - Baby In Tow (Day Trips)

Leave it to a global pandemic and parenting to really change the way you travel. Before I had a baby, travel was a big priority. I spent my 20s taking my hiking boots to anywhere my budget could accommodate. I had some big-ticket trips like sipping champagne in Paris, hiking through Iceland, or scuba diving in Bonaire and they were grand 20 something adventures. As lovely as it was to get on a plane a few times a year, a lot of my travels were pretty local. Life as a weekend warrior who worked a 9 to 5 meant that I became quite skilled at packing an adventure into a long weekend or even the day.

A lot of my trips were with a day bag packed with snacks and a full tank of gas. COVID made local travel even more important as the world struggled with understaffed flights, access limitations and testing requirements. 

The pandemic changed the way we travel and being a parent changes it even more. Now that we have a baby, we plan a lot more day trips to small scenic towns and head out for exciting hikes throughout New England. 

Whether you are heading out for the day, the night, or the week, traveling with a baby requires a different mondset. It isn't always easy and there are plenty of frustrating moments. I promise that it is all worth it, worth the Xtra packing and planning to share our favorite places with Whitney and to discover new spaces with him in tow. It's also a skill you improve with time, the more you go, the more you know. but before you set out on your next adventure, there are a few foundations that make it all run smoother. Today's post is my non-expert advice, my tips and tricks to get you out on the go with a baby in tow - the day trip edition.