Author: Jess

Detour for a Service Project & Some Horses

Post author By Jess
Post date May 9, 2016

Leaving New Orleans around mid-morning on Saturday we headed to Baton Rouge, LA to attend an endowment session at the temple. We parked the Airstream in the lot, and the kids hung out and watched a movie while Sam and I went inside. Grateful to our awesome kids that do so well on their own and give us opportunities like this!

“Spring! Short stop in Baton Rouge, LA this afternoon to attend an endowment session inside the beautiful LDS temple. Love the peace, comfort, and excitement we felt today. Life is good and the future is even brighter!” – Jess

“We decided during breakfast this morning to attend a session at the Baton Rouge LDS Temple. We made it with only minutes to spare. By awesome coincidence, our college friend Jason was in the SAME SESSION, having driven 7 hours to be there to attend with a friend. We loved seeing him, and discovered that his wonderful family lives quite near a planned stop in Texas in a few weeks.” – Sam

We spent the night at Wal-Mart in Lake Charles and took the house to church on Sunday. Recently, the Sabine River had overflowed (even closing down the freeway between Louisiana and Texas) and there were many homes filled with water. After sacrament meeting, Bishop stood up and asked the brethren to go home, change, and come back ready to help families clean out their houses.

“The Sabine river runs down the Texas / Louisiana border, and was flooded high enough to shut down I-10. The Highway is back open now, but plenty of homes have suffered damage. Church today was cut short as volunteers were organized to help those with damaged homes. We were grateful for the chance to serve, and found ourselves working alongside many others to clean out rooms and remove damaged paneling and carpet. So anyway, today we learned about service at church.” – Sam

We jumped at the chance to serve and were able to spend a few hours helping a family clean their soaking wet possessions out of their house and stripping the walls down to studs. In the process we met the Evans family who invited us out to their farm for dinner, a bonfire, a zipline, and good conversation and company! Super grateful for their generosity and friendship!

“During our work project yesterday, we met the nicest family that was helping as well. They insisted that we bring our house over to their house for a night. The kids loved playing with friends, and everybody enjoyed a zipline across the horse pasture. Thank you, Evans Family, for being so good to us!” – Sam

“I love that today didn’t turn out remotely as planned. After hearing at church that volunteers were needed for flood/disaster clean up, we changed our schedule and landed in the town of Orange with new friends after a good three hours of work. We ended the day with an amazing bonfire and great company. Life is good.” – Jess

Next Up: San Antonio!

Louisiana National Parks WanderLog

Meetups, Donuts, and Beignets in New Orleans, LA

Post author By Jess
Post date May 9, 2016
1 Comment on Meetups, Donuts, and Beignets in New Orleans, LA

Travel Dates: March 15 – 18, 2016.

After leaving Florida and quick overnight in Mississippi, we headed to meet up with friends at Bayou Segnette State Park outside of New Orleans, LA. This was our second visit to New Orleans, and I was all for skipping it had we not been meeting up with friends. Also, beignets. I don’t think the kids would have forgiven us if we had skipped those!

First things first, we drove straight to Costco and got Cara an eye exam. We knew she probably needed glasses as she’s been squinting a lot when she reads, and Costco was the easiest and fastest way we could get her in to see someone. We got a prescription and then ordered glasses online to be sent ahead to San Antonio where we would be in about a week.

“Cara had an eye exam this morning and we were able to procure a prescription for glasses. She’s farsighted (+1 and +.75) and glasses will really help her to read. Her siblings have been totally supportive and she’s super excited to wear them!” -Jess

For school one day with our friends from @livinginthemomentum we visited the Barataria Preserve Unit of the Jean Lafitte National Historic park. We walked along the boardwalk, did our Jr. Ranger Books, and watched an incredibly old, outdated film that totally bored ALL the kids and the parents. If we hadn’t just come from Florida and the amazing Cypress Swamps there, maybe it would have been more impressive? At least we were with friends which always makes things more fun!

We also had the opportunity to meet up with a lot of friends! Heather & Mark from @livingistheadventure, Dave & Ann from @advodna_dave, and also @livinginthemomentum were all at the same state park. Although we never actually got ALL of us together at the same time, we did meet up occasionally for dinner, or to let the kids run around spraying each other

with the hose on a hot day.

“Along with our traveling buddies we also had the awesome@timphamdotcom and his super cute wife Kimmy out to the Airstream. Tim is a crazy good wedding photographer here in NOLA and it was fun to catch up! They are expecting their first child in about 2 weeks, and since they brought both soda AND cupcakes to our potluck feast we know they are going to be fabulous parents.” – Jess

“We misread the open dates for the swimming pool, which resulted in a pile of swimsuited kids and a sweltering afternoon. Water fight at the Currens! We were joined today by@advodna_dave, @livingistheadventure,@livinginthemomentum, and associated crews, and had a blast.” – Sam

Instead of driving into New Orleans like last time, we decided to take the ferry over since it cost about the same and we wouldn’t have to deal with parking the truck in the French Quarter which is never fun. It was as quick ride and deposited us only about 1/2 mile from downtown which was a great walk along the Mississippi River.

Our first stop was to visit the New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park, but unfortunately all the music was done for the day, and since the building was getting ready to undergo renovations there wasn’t a whole lot to do. We quickly earned our Jr. Ranger badges and moved on to other things!

“We tend to travel in the spaces between large cities, as they are not our favorite places. Occasionally, however, the pull of local cuisine is too tempting and we make an exception. Such is the case with beignets in New Orleans. That and the Jazz music.” -Jess

Although the line had died down outside Cafe Du Mondeand we were seated quickly, it took FOREVER for someone to take our order. We entertained the kids by flipping our Jr. Ranger badges across the table, and arm wrestling. Once they came though, we devoured the fluffy, powdered-sugar covered goodness in minutes.

After that we took a walk through town up to Louis Armstrong Park. Its a well-done green space with a pond and the walk through the French Quarter architecture was pleasant enough. Naturally, we avoided Bourbon Street and got back to the ferry dock only to find it was closed due to mechanical failure. With our car on the other side of the river, we grabbed an Uber ride back across the bridge in no time. The kids were super impressed and it just added to the adventure!

Our beignet order at Cafe Du Monde took an unnaturally long time to make it to our table this afternoon, so entertainment was found by introducing our kids to arm wrestling. So cute they thought they could actually win!” – Jess

“We almost didn’t head into New Orleans today. We did anyway, and collected another Junior Ranger Badge and these delicious beignets. Yep, it was worth it. Even when the ferry broke down and had to Uber back across the river to where the truck was parked.” – Sam

We decided we had to run into town one more time to get donuts. The Instagram world told us we absolutely HAD to try District Donuts before we left because they were delicious. Yep. They were right. We also grabbed some sliders as a snack, plus a cinnamon roll and all of them were delicious. Definitely a great place to stock up on yummy food!

“I may have a thing for donuts, and this place could possibly rival Blue Star Donuts in Portland, OR. I think it’s good to have a favorite donut shop in every state. Just in case….” – Jess

“District Donuts on Magazine Street in New Orleans has flavors like Wedding Cake, Nola Cream, Lemon Blueberry, Chocolate Covered Strawberry, and Mango Pink Peppercorn. We bought a dozen, and tried them all. #donutjudgeme” – Sam

One day in downtown, and a few days hanging out was plenty for us! New Orleans is not my favorite city, and although there is a lot of culture, we’ll probably stick with the spaces in between cities next time!

Next Up: We detour for a service project and make it into Texas!

Alabama Florida WanderLog

It Rains in Florida and Dashes All Hopes of Boogie Boarding One Last Time

Post author By Jess
Post date May 9, 2016
1 Comment on It Rains in Florida and Dashes All Hopes of Boogie Boarding One Last Time

Travel Dates: March 5-14, 2016.

We arrived home from Cumberland Island in the early afternoon on Saturday and drove east for a couple of hours before over-nighting at Walmart.

The next day after church, we made it to Dead Lakes State Recreation Area which had been recommended to us by a traveling friend. It was the perfect place to get all our backpacking gear put away and to get a jump start on school and work for the week.

“A little, post-workout relaxing in the hammock was just perfect this morning. This little RV park has been just what we needed to get caught up on daily life!” – Jess

“This little recreation area has been perfectly quiet and peaceful, which was just what we needed. We are headed out to Destin now, which will be beautiful but not as peaceful. People ask us all the time how we find the places we go. Often, we see pictures on Instagram posted by others. In this case,@joehendricks tipped us off about this place, and it has been perfect!” – Sam

Tuesday morning we continued on to Henderson Beach State Park where we had stayed 2 years ago on our way through. We were hoping to get in a few more days of boogie boarding, but the waves were incredibly high and the weather was stormy. Luckily, we had @livinginthemomentum nearby to hang out with instead!

After 2 nights at Henderson, we left for Big Lagoon State Park outside of Pensacola, Florida. We had plans to meet up with our friends we met at church 2 years ago, and it was a piece of Florida we hadn’t seen.

On the way there, we drove our favorite section of Florida Highway: 399. Water on both sides and beautiful white sand beaches. Perfection.

“Today we got to repeat one of our favorite drives. The Gulf Islands National Seashore includes a wonderful section of coastline on Santa Rosa Island. Highway 399 is worth the diversion. At high tide, watch for sand and water on the highway. Our last drive on this highway was in December 2013, early in our travels. The sea was angry today, but the drive was wonderful!” – Sam

Big Lagoon SP was great, but unfortunately, the weather was still stormy. We did our best to get out in between the rainy spells and go for walks. One of our longer walks was out to the observation tower where it was super windy!

We also visited the Naval Aviation Museum. The kids and I had been, but Sam wasn’t with us last time. Lots of planes!

“Rachel doesn’t always join her younger siblings on things for young kids anymore. While they were occupied, She and I wandered about. She particularly liked this hybrid boat/plane design, complete with bunks and a small kitchen.” – Sam

“We had some good rain today, and escaped to the Naval Aviation Museum. Entrance is free, and they have a zillion planes. Cara jumped into every cockpit that was open.” – Sam

“Our afternoon wander took us out to a lookout along the inter-coastal waterway. The wind was strong enough that the only birds we saw were either flapping wildly or hunkered down in the grass.” – Sam

“Big Lagoon State Park is pretty unique. They rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards which would be a great way to explore the water if we wouldn’t have blown over and capsized in the wind. We settled for a hike out to the observation tower instead. There’s always next time.” – Jess

“Jess took the time to do her hair and look great for our afternoon wander. The wind had a different opinion. A much better plan was our week-long timezone manipulation. We crossed into Central Time a week ago, but we’ve been pretending it is still Eastern Time. Tonight, we switch to Central, erasing the hour jump for the timezone switch, no time adjustment required. You win some, you lose some.” – Sam

“Crazinesss at the overlook. Two years ago on our way through Pensacola we met a crazy, like minded, wanderlust family at church. Today we invited them out to see the Airstream and fed them spaghetti and meatballs while we all caught up. In a few months they move to Guam for the Air Force and get to explore that part of the world. Part of me is a little bit jealous.” – Jess

Monday morning it was time to head out of Florida! We had a great winter, but we were definitely ready for something different.

We decided to make a quick stop at the USS Alabama in Mobile so Sam and the kids could check out the battleship and submarine. I was able to hang out in the trailer and get caught up on some work. Love when the kids get to explore with their dad!

“We explored the USS Alabama today. The last time we explored a battleship was two years ago (Battleship Texas) and the kids loved it. And… I loved it too. I really love exploring with my kids.” -Sam

“At the same location is the USS Drum. This was my first submarine, and it was awesome. Much smaller than the battleship, but quite roomy compared to the Airstream!” – Sam

We over-nighted at a Walmart in Mississippi before heading on to New Orleans!

Next Up: Meetups, Donuts, and Beignets in New Orleans, LA

“Peace out Florida! ✌ Its been a great 14 weeks but we are ready to move on. Mountains and the west are calling our name!” – Jess

Mommy Diaries Outdoor Gear

Aventura Spring Clothing Line – Modest & Comfortable

Post author By Jess
Post date May 6, 2016
21 Comments on Aventura Spring Clothing Line – Modest & Comfortable

IMG_20160414_170750675_HDR-1

For those of you that have seen the inside of our Airstream closet, you know we don’t have much room. Its not even the size of a normal person closet, yet we cram 5 people’s worth of clothes in it. Top a small closet off with the extreme dislike of shopping and its a wonder I don’t wear my pajamas all day. Although we don’t have a lot of clothes what we do have are our favorites, so I’m super picky about the clothes I keep and wear.

Last year, I was introduced to Aventura – a company passionate about creating fashionable clothing with a low environmental impact. Every year they select Brand Ambassadors, and this year I was selected to be one! I couldn’t be more excited. As an ambassador we are given complimentary outfits in spring and fall in exchange for expressing our opinions and sharing the brand through our blogs and social media channels. Sweet deal, right?

Of course as soon as I committed I had cold feet. What if I didn’t like their clothes? Let’s face it, I really don’t have room for more clothes. This is silly, I hate putting photos of myself out on social media. I’m SO not a fashion blogger.

All of these thoughts and more kept running through my head until I actually got my first shipment of clothes. Now? I’m seriously in love. Super comfortable, fashionable, and modest. I actually bought my first pair of colored capri pants as well – whoa! Totally branching out here. It helps that my family keeps telling me how cute I look (if the clothes fit Rachel I would definitely buy her some), and I feel great.

With our active lifestyle, I feel like my clothes need to hold up against wear and tear, move easily, but still look great. Although we rarely travel with suitcases, I’ve also heard their clothes pack well for vacation.! One friend even told me she’s had a skirt for years, taken it all over the globe, and it still looks like new. Perfect.

I feel like the entire spring line is light weight fabric, so although many of my choices are long sleeved- they aren’t too warm. Perfect for those cool days that aren’t quite summer.

Okay, so out of all the clothes in their spring line what did I pick? Here’s a run down of my favorites:

Outfit Combo #1

spring outfit 4

The Arden Capris come in 11 different colors – so its super easy to mix and match with their various tops. My only complaint is that the waist is a bit big for the size and I have to wear a belt. I think next time I’ll order a size smaller and see how that goes. I love the Savannah Top as its flowly, yet still feminine and not baggy. The Erin top in black was a safe bet, but I’m thinking about ordering another one in pink. I love the sleeves and the back detail on the Raleigh Top and it goes great underneath the Redford Jacket (which also comes in 9 colors!) and has become one of my all time favorite pieces of clothing. Ever.

IMG_20160415_172953764_HDR — Hanging out in Hot Springs, AR

IMG_20160504_195639 — Evening walk with the family in Bella Vista, AR

Outfit Combo #2

I needed a new skirt, and the Arlington is long enough it comes just below my knees. It has the right amount of “swish” while not being too flowy and showing everything. The Pinellas Top is another stretch for me – its super cute and lightweight but I’m not sure how much I’ll wear it. Hoping to branch out my style and really learn to love this one. The Kyle Wrap has also become a staple! It looks great thrown over practically anything, and is a great piece to grab if you’re unsure what the temperature will be in a few hours.

IMG_20160324_190610947_HDR — Meeting up with friends for pizza in Comfort, TX

Outfit Combo #3

Another pair of capris – surprise! I already own shorts and my long, convertible hiking pants, so capris were a naturally addition to my wardrobe. I LOVE the Neema Hoodie, although I feel like it runs a little large. The Lulu Top is a bit more fancy. Its hard to see but there’s actually some green underneath the lacing. Not sure if I love that part, but it also goes great with my black pencil skirt for church.

DSCF4745 — Sunday afternoon walk down by the river.

Outfit Combo #4

Once I retired one old skirt, I decided they all needed to go so that meant I needed another Sunday, church outfit. I love the Ashby Maxi Dress. The detail on the bottom is super pretty, and it has wide shoulders which work great with the Kyle Wrap in black or white. This is what I’m wearing on Mother’s Day and I’m super excited!

I really had a hard time deciding on my outfits, and actually ended up ordering quite a few more pieces myself. It was definitely time for a wardrobe change, so I don’t mind. Excited to keep wearing these outfits all summer and can’t wait to see what they have for fall.

If you are interested in trying out Aventura (or already love them and just need some new clothes!) comment below and I’ll email you a 60% off coupon good for up to a $250 order. They have also recently started a customer appreciation program called #AventuraLife. Its totally free to sign up and you can earn free shipping and discounts on clothes as well. Wahoo!!

For other ideas check out these posts from other Aventura ambassadors:

Alyssa- kidproject.org
Amy – Pit Stops for Kids
365 Atlanta Family

IMG_20160328_185048450_HDR — San Antonio, TX Riverwalk

Tags Aventura, Aventura Clothing, Aventura Life

Fitness & Recipes

Airstream Kitchen: Skillet Ham & Cheese Scones

Post author By Jess
Post date May 3, 2016

Everything seems to taste better in our cast iron skillet, and these scones were no exception! I was looking on Pinterest for a way to use up our leftover Easter Ham when I found this recipe on Damn Delicious. We’ve loved everything I’ve made of hers, so we thought to give it a try!

Yeah. They were good. Especially warm right out of the over with butter. Ahhh…

I served these with a big ol’ salad and some fruit. Everyone was happy!

Skillet Ham & Cheese Scones

adapted from Damn Delicious
8 servings, 1 wedge each

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp dried chives (can also use fresh, but I never have those either)
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cut into cubes
3/4 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice if you are lazy like me and never have buttermilk on hand)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced ham

Intructions:

Preheat over to 425 degrees F.
In a large bowl mix your dry ingredients – flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Add the cold butter using your fingers to work it into the mix. I usually end up with flour covered butter chunks and that’s okay too.
Stir in buttermilk, cheese, ham and chives until you have soft dough.
Knead the dough 3-4 times on a flour covered surface until it all comes together. Spread it out into a 10″ skillet so it has uniform thickness. Cut into 8 wedges inside the pan. I also like to shape the edges a little just so they get a little crispy all over.
Bake in oven for 18-20 minutes or until firm to the touch and lightly brown.
Eat and enjoy!