The main character in the Young Adult Historical Fiction book I’m working on dreams of summiting Mt. Rainier. So, I wanted to get my butt on the mountain to see, smell, and touch my way around. We actually did this hike in August (same as my character!) but now that the Pacific Northwest is covered... Read More » The post Mt. Rainier Family Hike appeared first on North of Something ..read more

I’m really excited to share an interview with a phenomenal debut author: Claire Cain! Her first book WHERE YOU GO was released just last week on October 2nd. You can pick it up on Amazon as a kindle ebook or paperback! a Rafflecopter giveaway Claire Cain lives to eat and drink her way around the... Read More » The post Author Spotlight with Claire Cain + a Giveaway! appeared first on North of Something ..read more

NARWHAL: UNICORN OF THE SEA by Ben Clanton is a fun read for ages 6-9. It’s the first book in the “Narwhal and Jelly Book” series. With lots of talk about waffles and parties, this graphic novel/chapter book is focused on silliness and friendship. What’s not to love?! I’m going to be honest here: I... Read More » The post Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea | Book Review appeared first on North of Something ..read more

Today I’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Broedel! She is a nurse-turned-writer who enthusiastically follows life wherever it takes her. Years spent living abroad and moving regularly have given her an appreciation for varied culture, art, study of language, and adventure in general. A pre-published author of picture books in rhyme and prose, Jennifer nurtures... Read More » The post Author Spotlight Interview with Jennifer Broedel appeared first on North of Something ..read more

I had the distinct privilege of meeting David Buerge, author of Chief Seattle and the Town That Took His Name. He did a reading in a very full conference room at Aljoya, an event put on by the Mercer Island library, with some help from the Mercer Island Historical Society. David Buerge was a lively... Read More » The post Meeting David Buerge appeared first on North of Something ..read more

Since my son was born six years ago, we have been on TWELVE plane trips, traveled to SIX countries, and stayed at countless hotels in many different cities. When my daughter was born last year she got to jump in on the fun, with an international flight at 3 months old and two other domestic... Read More » The post Traveling with a Baby | My Favorite Gear appeared first on North of Something ..read more

I have a new article up at Military Spouse Magazine! If you have ever had a spouse deployed, in training, or even out late doing a dangerous job (police, fireman, etc.) then you know the unique torture of being glued to your phone awaiting a call. Here’s an excerpt from the article: When you get... Read More » The post How NOT to Miss a Call from your Spouse appeared first on North of Something ..read more

On July 16th, 2015, our first full day in Paris, we took a taxi to the Louvre Museum. We were a little nervous bringing a four-year-old into what is arguably the most incredible museum in the world, but it actually went really well and I’m excited to share the experience! First of all, I wasn’t... Read More » The post The Louvre Through the Eyes of a Four Year Old appeared first on North of Something ..read more

We have been in Germany for almost a year now and I’m gearing up for my very first Oktoberfest! Two of my sisters and my brother-in-law are flying in for the occasion and I can’t wait to explore this famous festival for the first time. This year Oktoberfest runs from September 19th through October 4th and... Read More » The post The BEST Info on Oktoberfest + A Bavarian Giveaway! appeared first on North of Something ..read more

On our last day in Helsinki we took the Silja Ferry to the historical Suomenlinna sea fortress. The six island UNESCO World Heritage site was built starting in 1748. It has been in Swedish and Russian possession before it finally belonged to Finland in 1918. You can read more about the history at the Official... Read More » The post The Suomenlinna Sea Fortress in Helsinki appeared first on North of Something ..read more