Hey friend,

I’m finally on the couch. Wrapped in a blanket.
A quiet-ish house (because I do have four boys running around).

I’m completely exhausted from the shopping, wrapping, prepping, and all the holiday festivities.

And somehow, in this cozy pause, I also feel that familiar spark of excitement about what’s coming in 2026.

If you’re tired but also weirdly hopeful, you’re not alone.

I love planning my year around some amazing family travel.

This is the reminder I always need when my brain feels full:​
You don’t need the perfect plan to book a trip.

If you find a place you actually want to go and it’s refundable, you’re allowed to book it.
You’re not committing your soul.
You’re just giving yourself options.

You can change dates.
You can cancel.
You can decide later when your brain is rested and the sugar cookies are gone.

Sometimes the hardest part of planning a family trip is simply starting.
Refundable bookings make that part easier.

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✨If you’re feeling inspired but not sure where to even start, here’s my list of 26 Doable Places to Take Your Kids in 2026.

And if you want a few tried-and-true favorites, these three always feel like a win for families:
• Gatlinburg​
• Niagara Falls​
• San Diego​

Stay tuned for more packing tips, behind-the-scenes travel hacks, and inspiration to make your trips feel doable and fun. I’m all about helping you make family travel as smooth as possible, so you can create memories without the headache.

Thanks for being part of the Travel Tuesday community, and I can’t wait to connect again soon!💕

✨ Want to make planning even easier?

If you want travel planning to feel less chaotic, my Travel Itinerary Planner + Packing List helps you keep everything in one place when you’re ready to start planning.

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Wishing you a calm end to the year, a little space to breathe, and something fun to look forward to. 💛

May you LOVE your adventure!

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