Who could have predicted this? Im still processing it, even as I switch to autopilot: prioritizing hygiene, maintaining social distance. I skipped voting for the first time since turning 18—not out of fear (polling stations felt safer than crowded bakeries), but to heed scientists over mixed governm

After embracing Lories positive vibe—dont thank me, itll keep your mind occupied. Then, the coaches miracle morning solutions (or not) for happiness. And of course, the benevolent Blaise. Remember that post I dedicated to him and positive parenting?Its time for positive confinement!Today, I confess:

No need to panic—Im pulling myself together. If lockdown ends in just 8 days (ha ha ha), Id have only shared two updates, despite planning to blog more regularly during this unexpected free time. Classic oversight from yours truly.How are you holding up, friends?Heres the routine: Week 1 was all abo

As a mom navigating the shift from little girl to teenager, both my daughter and her bedroom are very much under construction. Life goes on—Im still processing it all. Just before lockdown, her new double bed arrived, kicking off the room transformation Id been delaying. Once that was in place, mome

Sorry? Yippee, schools out? My dear children, havent you been on an extended break since mid-March?Okay, lets have a little laugh (even if masks hide our smiles). Staying up late, sleeping in, park hangouts or window shopping every afternoon, sleepovers with friends, inviting them over... thats what

As a parent whos navigated countless summers with teens, I recently saw a viral Facebook post reminding us we only have about 18 summers with our kids before they reach adulthood. Its a sobering thought—and yes, it aligns with the age of majority. But lets be real: while that number packs a punch, i

After quick blog trips in 2011 and 2014, plus a business visit, our family finally conquered the Big Apple together. New York has captivated me since my first visit, and bringing my children—a 12-year-old celebrating his birthday there and a teenager—made it unforgettable. As a seasoned traveler, Im

Before diving into our detailed Quebec itinerary, heres a roundup of practical advice drawn from our firsthand experience planning a family trip to this stunning Canadian province. Trip Overview: 3.5 weeks round-trip from Quebec City, highlighting the Gaspésie region. Season: Summer 2019. Flying to

Après ma découverte du Nouveau-Brunswick fin juin 2018 avec des amis blogueurs, on ma glissé à loreille : « Si tu as aimé, tu vas adorer la Gaspésie. » Lidée a germé. En novembre, au cinéma, une pub Air Transat sur le Canada a scellé notre décision pour lété suivant. Oubliez lOuest américain : ce s

Continuing our summer family vacation through Quebecs stunning landscapes. After crossing the St. Lawrence River by ferry from Matane to Godbout, leaving Gaspésie behind, were sharing the second half of this unforgettable trip to Canadas beautiful province.Vacation Day 14: After disembarking the fer

Over time, Ive embraced making my own yogurt at home as part of our zero-waste lifestyle. These yogurts contain just milk—pure, creamy, and incredibly delicious.Ive shared glimpses of the process on Instagram, including quick videos, and after numerous requests, Im detailing it here on the blog. Her

As we kick off 2020, Im thrilled to return to blogging. My blog is nearing its 12th birthday, but first, in just a few days, my eldest daughter—the one who first made me a mom—turns 15. Weve got some special surprises planned... shhh!Ive missed this space dearly. The past three years, Ive poured my

Becoming a parent of a teenager feels just like boarding OzIris, the flagship roller coaster at Parc Astérix.© Parc AstérixThats my firsthand take—after riding it twice in December (yes, Im still recovering). The great news? I survived intact.We start in line, watching riders scream and laugh a

A few weeks ago, the Action Enfance foundation invited select influencers to amplify their vital missions, particularly the Action Enfance Fait Son Cinéma initiative. With some time on my hands in the early hours, I eagerly agreed to support this cause and share it with my audience across my blog an

As seasoned Paris locals with years of exploring nearby gems, we decided on a last-minute getaway to break up our American correspondents short two-week stay—which included just one full weekend. Initially considering a Loire Valley château like our previous trip with Paola from Guatemala, time con

If youve followed my blog for years (thank you for your support!), you know my family and I have committed to mindful consumption and planetary awareness. Weve made steady progress without extreme overhauls.That said, I still enjoy meat, havent fully embraced bulk buying, travel by plane occasionall

As a parent of a 14-year-old and a soon-to-be 12-year-old, Ive fielded countless questions about managing my teenagers smartphone habits and whereabouts. This guide focuses on free, built-in Apple tools for iPhone, iPod, and iPad users—perfect for #TeamApple families. Ill cover Android options in a

As a busy parent and seasoned family traveler, Ive learned that the best adventures often start unplanned. Quick thinking turned a scheduling snag into a delightful week immersed in nature. With work deadlines looming and Easter holidays approaching, traditional plans fell through—my parents unavail

LaughTearsPrideShameDisarraySurpriseTopBottomGlass half fullGlass half emptyThese are the emotional rollercoasters of adolescence. As a parent whos lived it, I feel like Im competing for the record in time spent on this exhausting mental merry-go-round.After years of confusion, sheer exhaustion, rel

With just days left in Round 1 of our summer break, Im sharing a quick update from our family blog.First, a peek at my sons 11th birthday gifts. Keeping it simple as always, he requested a guitar and a Lego set to share with his grandparents.This first vacation round followed our classic routine: th