weekend trips from Sacramento worth the drive

What to do in Santa Cruz with kids. A toddler plays at Natural Bridges State Beach.

As a born and raised Southern Californian, it will always hold a special place in my heart. However, Northern California is truly an incredible place to live. I am so thankful to live in our little community in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Not only is it beautiful here, but we’re so close […]

Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary for families

Florence, Oregon sand dunes at the beach.

We have been planning summer road trips since 2020 and have made plenty of fun (and often chaotic) memories over the years. In 2024 we road tripped through the Pacific Northwest for the second time. We checked off our last two national parks on our list for that region and played on the beautiful beaches. […]

gift guide for outdoor lovers

Chatbooks discount code LITTLEDOVE.

‘Tis the season for being outdoors and for gift giving! With graduation season in full swing, Mother’s Day right around the corner, and Father’s Day coming up, I wanted to round up some of my favorite gift ideas for people that love the great outdoors. These gifts are probably best suited for teens and adults, […]

Wuksachi Lodge review: staying in Sequoia National Park

Silliman building at Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia National Park.

On our recent trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks our family stayed in the only lodge within the park boundary. We loved our stay amongst the biggest trees in the world! Keep reading for our full Wuksachi Lodge review, including if it’s worth the price or not! As an Expedia Group partner some […]

Sequoia and Kings Canyon with kids: tips for visiting

The top of Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park.

For part of our Spring Break this year we spent a couple days in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. If you’ve never been, these two national parks border each other and are operated together. The great thing is, as long as you’re visiting when Generals Highway is open (typically April through November), then you […]