Planning Your Mommy Travels for 2016

January has always been a reset for me. It's a time where I empower myself and reevaluate my yearly travel

Planning trips to nearby state zoos is an inexpensive family trip

goals. . A difficulty many moms have is time and money for trips. It’s easy to put off your dreams of travel when the kids have after school activities or when the boss requires you to work extra hours. To overcome these challenges I try to set personal deadlines for myself. For example, I have three “trips” planned in the next 6 months two are local and one is a 14-day cross-country road trip.  

Once my deadlines are in place, I try to figure out when I can travel and how I’m going to pay for it. Sometimes it means making a bit of money online while waiting on the kids or I find myself stretching the time between haircuts to save a bit extra or cooking at home more. My busy life has me saving everywhere I can so I have enough for my travel goals.

You can make your travel dreams come true, if you plan it to match your current lifestyle! For example, our 14-day road trip will involve camping at some locations and food I’ve brought from home to save money. We’ve decided to drive instead of fly. It’s cheaper and we have more to see.

 The following smartphone Aps have help me refocus me travel goals and I hope they set you on the path for success in 2016. These links are to Android Aps to help you plan your trips, Apple users can find many of these aps at the Apple Store.

Note and Planning Tools – These Aps allow you to write, make lists and plan your trips on the run then you can port to other  computers or print your stuff at home.

MS Office 

Squid – This is a favorite of mine. It has a pen function that allows me to draw or write notes by hand.

Trello – I recommend you take the online tutorial before using this product. It takes a while to get used to but it is the best tool I’ve used in planning trips, my published books, blogs and even my home life. It’s especially helpful in putting together savings plans for future trips.

Keep- This is a Google product and works very similar to Trello. I use this for making travel lists, writing poetry, and filing travel details directly from Google Maps.  

Exploring Tropical Travel in Belize

Belize is located on northeastern coast of Central America and is often referred to by divers as one of the seven wonders of the underwater world. The Great Barrier Reef that runs parallel to the coast of Belize is the second largest reef in the world rivaled only by Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. This dotted chain of cays shelters an astonishing amount of marine life and with a visibility of over 100 feet; it is considered a divers and snorkelers paradise.

For moms looking for a water travel adventure, Belize is the perfect place to enjoy pristine beaches and the ocean's natural wonders. Travel choices to Belize offer trips for any type of traveler. Travel moms can visit with their children using one of many guided family tours available in Belize. 

Very adventurous travel moms can also book their own trips and stay at resort hotels such as the Sunbreeze Hotel in Ambergris Cay. 

Most flights going to Belize land in Belize City but most recommend that vacationers take the time to travel to the more tourist friendly San Pedro. This city serves as a Belize tourist base for deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling tours. An example of such a tour is a visit to Shark Ray Alley within the Hol Chan Aquatic Nature Reserve where visitors can snorkel in an aquarium like setting along with nurse sharks, stingrays and a variety of other local tropical fish species.

Tourist friendly San Pedro boasts a laid-back atmosphere where golf carts, bicycles and walking are the preferred methods of transportation. In addition, many of the San Pedro hotels offer services to help visitors book guided Belize tours. 

Guided tours are the best way to explore Belize for first time travel moms. One tour that should not be missed when visiting San Pedro is the nearby archaeological site called the Marco Gonzalez Ruins. Over 2000 years old, these ruins are believed to be part of an important Mayan trading center. 

Travel to Belize can be found throughout the internet at reasonable prices, but make sure to check reviews and references before booking a trip.There is a high amount of crime in Belize City so a reputable agent with personal references is important.  

A Trip to Willamette Valley Wine Country

Age appropriate: 21 and up

Moms need some time off, too!  Not only does it give you a break but it makes those left behind more appreciative of your efforts!  As much as I love Napa Valley, it is an expensive trip for Travel Mommies on a budget. A great wine tour alternative that is often overlooked because of is west coast location is Willamette Valley in Oregon.  This 100 mile long valley named after the river that flows through it contains a number of charming towns and over 300 wineries. Cities such as Newberg in the valley offer a number of charming Bed and Breakfast inns such as The Dreamgiver's Inn, University House and Chehalem Ridge. 


Take a Tour

A hot air balloon scenic flight over the wine country of Newberg is an excellent way to view the area and enjoy the countryside. Most flights last an hour but are often combined with a catered breakfast and post flight celebration. Another fun way to enjoy Oregon's premier wine country is by bike. Bike tours will take visitors on an easy paced ride through picturesque country lanes past stunning landscapes, hillside vineyards, and century old farmhouses. Many tours will include wine tastings at local vineyards and a picnic lunches. For the truly adventuresome try taking the 132-mile Bikeway which starts at Champoeg State Hertiage park and winds through a number of picturesque Willamette Valley towns and ends at the Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge.

For more Information visit the Willamette Valley Tourism Page.

Retro Fun in West Allis, Wisconsin

Age recommendations: Mature 6 and up

I love to take kids on retro trips to areas where they can get a feel for what it was like to grow up in the later part of the 20^th century before mobile phones, cable TV, and computers. West Allis, located near Milwaukee, offers visitors that kind of nostalgic trip. Allis’ mature tree lined neighborhood streets create a vibrant canopy of colors in the fall and a cool green forest during warmer days while Allis’ main street area maintains its postmodern charm.

West Allis offers a few good restaurant choices, which are influenced by its predominately-Italian residents. For the best garlic bread and lasagna in the Milwaukee area, visit Mama Mia Italian Cuisine at 8533 W Greenfield Avenue. It is a bit pricey for young children but if you are trying to introduce young foodies to fine Italian cuisine this is the place to start.

After your meal, try a Milwaukee’s most popular sport, bowling. It is not surprising that a retro bowling alley is located on West Allis’ main street. Introduce your children to a bye-gone era at the Riviera Lanes bowling alley on Greenfield Avenue. This retro place is an excellent place to teach children that people can have fun without electronics.

A shopper’s visit to West Allis is not complete without a weekend visit to the West Allis Farmer’s Market at 6501 S 65th Street. Started in 1919 this market is a fun way to introduce youngsters to America’s first shopping malls. They will marvel at the wide and diverse selection of items and tastes offered here on weekends including antiques. The best part is that prices are not set so super shoppers can negotiate for the best price.


West Allis is located close to Milwaukee. As a result, visitors can stay at Ambassador Hotel on Milwaukee Avenue. This retro Art Deco style hotel provides immediate access to the heart of downtown Milwaukee and to Milwaukee’s museums and parks. Just do not forget to visit one of West Allis’ many bakeries for a taste experience that will take you back to grandma’s kitchen.  

Up Coming Events

May-  Memorial Day parade

The Memorial Day Parade is supported by the City of West Allis and is coordinated The Allied Veterans' Organizations of West Allis. The parade takes place each Memorial Day at Veterans’ Memorial Park located at South 69th Street and West National Avenue. The Memorial Day celebrations start with the parade and end with a memorial service. Check the West Allis home page news and calendar for more details.

 June - The West Allis Ala Carte Street Festival

The West Allis Ala Carte street festival is held along Greenfield Avenue between 70th Street to 76th Street. It is traditionally held during the first Sunday in June as a showcase the Downtown West Allis’ business district. Activities at the fair include children’s activities such as face painting, live music, and a variety of West Allis food vendors. 

June through August - Summer Music in the Park

West Allis hosts summer concert series at Veteran's Park located at 70th Street and National Avenue. Live music concerts are held on Tuesday and Thursday night in the park. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to enjoy these free, family-friendly concerts. The concert schedule is updated on the West Allis website. 

July-  Independence Day Fireworks & Parade

West Allis prides itself on how it goes all out for Independence Day. Celebrations last for several days with activities including the Breakfast of Champions that honors both West Allis’ high school students for their achievements and its veterans. The Independence Day parade starts at 77th Street and Greenfield Avenue and proceeds from Veteran's Park to 70 Street and National Avenue where post parade entertainment provides fun for all. The Grandstand Show, features kids from throughout Wisconsin and fireworks continue the celebration into the evenings at State Fair Park. Check out the West Allis home page news and calendar for more details. 

July - National Night Out

National Night Out is an annual crime prevention event sponsored by the Aurora West Allis Medical Center. This community event is designed to strengthen neighborhood West Allis’ neighborhoods and to promote crime and drug prevention awareness. National Night Out activities include a community festival with many family friendly activities and neighborhood block parties. 

August - Wisconsin State Fair

To experience the ultimate fair event visit West Allis for the Wisconsin State Fair they host each August for 11 days. Just make sure to plan ahead to book your rooms. Hotel near West Allis fill up fast for this summer event. More information visit the Wisconsin State Fair website. 

August-  Settler's Weekend

The City of West Allis’ Historical Commission hosts Settler’s Weekend. It is held at on the Historical Society’s grounds at 84th Street and National Avenue. The weekend event highlights the history of West Allis up to becoming a city in 1906. Costumed mountain men, trappers, and Civil War re-enactors regale visitors of life prior to 1906 while local craftspeople offer their wares. Enjoy food, live entertainment and a tour of West Allis’ first school - an old log schoolhouse. The best part of this event is that admission and parking are free. For event information, visit the West Allis Historical Society website. 

October - Classic Car Show

If you are a fan of retro events then the Classic Car Show held along Greenfield Avenue is the place to be in October. This car show features hundreds of classic cars and racers for people to view. Events include a Hot Wheels race and live music. If your youngster begins to suffer from electron game withdrawal at this event then introduce them to the various carnival games offered. Food, fun, music, and games start the first Sunday in October from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the Downtown West Allis Business Improvement District website. 

December -Tree Lighting Ceremony & Christmas Parade

On the first Saturday of December, the holiday season in West Allis is kicked off with Christmas on Greenfield Avenue between 76th and 70th Streets. Events include a Christmas parade, ice sculpting demonstrations, live music, and games. Youngsters can have breakfast with Santa while crafters enjoy the annual craft fair. End of this fun filled day by watching West Allis’ Tree Lighting Ceremony at Centennial Plaza located at 7525 West Greenfield Avenue. The tree lighting ceremony is followed by the Christmas parade down Greenfield Avenue from the State Fair Park to 66th Street. Check out the West Allis home page news for a calendar and more information about dates and details.