Planning Our European Adventure: Part 1
The Journey Begins

Why This Trip Matters

As parents, we believe one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is exposure to the world. Travel has a way of opening minds and hearts, creating opportunities for growth that simply can’t be replicated in a classroom. And while we’ve shared many adventures together as a family, this trip feels different—it’s deeply personal.

This isn’t just about visiting iconic landmarks or trying new foods (though we’ll absolutely do that!). It’s about spending time with friends who feel like family, immersing ourselves in their day-to-day lives, and letting our kids experience life in another country in a way that’s authentic and meaningful.

The Blank Slate

Here’s the thing about planning a trip like this: it’s both exhilarating and overwhelming. Outside of one key plan—leaving one of our children with friends in France for a week—we have a completely blank slate. No set itinerary. No pre-booked tours. Just a million possibilities waiting to be explored.

Of course, that blank slate comes with its challenges. Summer is peak travel season in Europe, so we know we need to start planning early to make the most of our time. But with so many incredible options, narrowing it down has been no small feat.

The Planning Process

Our entire family has jumped into the planning process with enthusiasm, and it’s been amazing to watch everyone get involved. We’ve spent hours researching online, binge-watching YouTube travel guides, talking with friends who’ve been to Europe, and collecting ideas.

But planning a trip of this scale isn’t just about gathering ideas—it’s about making tough decisions. We’ve created draft itineraries, whittled them down, and then revamped them again. It’s a cycle of excitement, debate, and compromise, and while it’s not always easy, it’s all part of the journey.

The Joy in the Chaos

As someone who thrives on organization, you’d think the constant revamping and rethinking would drive me crazy. And, to be honest, sometimes it does. But what keeps me grounded is the joy I see in the process.

Planning this trip has brought us closer as a family. It’s given us a shared goal, countless laughs, and even a few hilarious arguments. It’s reminded me that travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the connections you make along the way, including the ones with the people sitting around your kitchen table.

What to Expect

Over the coming weeks and months, we’ll document this planning journey—sharing the good, the bad, and the unexpected. We’ll talk about the tools and resources we’ve used, highlight the destinations that made the cut (and those that didn’t), and reflect on the moments that make the chaos of planning worthwhile.

Our hope is that by sharing our experience, we’ll inspire other families to embark on their own adventures. Whether it’s across the ocean or across the state, travel has the power to transform how we see the world—and each other.

So, here we go: one blank slate, one summer, and one family ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. Let the adventure begin!

What about you? Have you ever planned a big family trip? What tips or lessons have you learned along the way? We’d love to hear from you!

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