It seems like a lot of people are thinking about moving to Italy from the U.S. these days. I did it several years ago and it was a magical experience. I’ve had friends ask me what it was like moving to Italy as an American and it certainly requires a lot of patience. Families may be curious about moving to Italy with children. We moved to Milan when my children were 7 and 9 years …

Puerto Vallarta is still one of my all-time favorite destinations to visit in Mexico. Unlike the touristy locales of Cancun and Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta feels like real Mexico. Authentic. Unspoiled. Puerto Vallarta is the best destination to visit in Mexico, as it is the oldest town not built as a resort destination. And it’s the perfect place to experience a little fun and  adventure, while enjoying great food! There are so many fun things to …

I recently read an article in Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Journal, “Nurtured for Generations,” about the legacies of grandmothers who cooked, and the home chefs – and the family food culture – they spawned. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, as I grew up in one of these families, and recently lost my mother who held so many recipes, cooking tips, and family food memories. I fear that so many of those treasures are …

Hopefully you’ve read my article on planning a South African safari, so now I want to tell you about the best South African safari lodge, Arathusa Safari Lodge. My brother and SIL had stayed at the lodge a few years ago so why reinvent perfection? I’m a bit OCD when it comes to trip planning, and especially about where I’ll be staying. I’m a homebody because I love my creature comforts (and my creatures) so …