An old-fashioned family crab boil in Lake Charles, LA

An old-fashioned family crab boil in Lake Charles, LA

I’m at a Fais-Do-Do, A Cajun Dance party, at Travel Media Showcase and Marilyn Dawdy, I learn, mid-lesson, is catering the big event for the conference in the Lake Charles Civic Center overlooking Lake Charles.

Visiting the theme parks with the youngest members of the family

Visiting the theme parks with the youngest members of the family

Wherever you and your toddlers and preschoolers find yourselves this summer, you’ll find plenty to amuse and entertain, even when they’re not walking yet. Go after the older kids go back to school and you can avoid the crowds. According to Visit Orlando, September is the cheapest month of the year to visit there.

Half Moon Bay, CA — no crowds or rush yet near San Francisco

Half Moon Bay, CA — no crowds or rush yet near San Francisco

My daughter is planning her wedding near Half Moon Bay. I can see why she loves this area — between the mountains to the East and the Pacific to the west. The best part—it’s not busy or crowded, though we’re less than hour’s drive from San Francisco.

Sonoma County: the right locale for a trip with a grown-up kid

Sonoma County: the right locale for a trip with a grown-up kid

Who says grown kids don’t want to travel with their parents? I don’t get to see my daughter that often and was determined to make our few days together as fun and as stress-free as possible for both of us. The key, I discovered, is choosing the right locale.

Discovering the family and foodie side of Sonoma County CA

Discovering the family and foodie side of Sonoma County CA

Sonoma County CA – Twenty coastal beaches… soaring Coas Redwoods… 11 state parks, 27 historical landmarks… 120 farms open to the public and 12 farmers markets… 400 wineries and more than 500 restaurants committed to bringing you food grown locally.