Embedded Files
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List
Every great teacher deserves a bucket list.
Every great teacher deserves a bucket list.
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List Series spotlights destinations every educator should experience—places where history, culture, and learning come alive beyond the classroom.
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List Series spotlights destinations every educator should experience—places where history, culture, and learning come alive beyond the classroom.
Some are places I've explored firsthand. Others are destinations I'm intentionally working toward as part of my own journey as an educator, leader, and traveler. Together, they reflect the belief that travel expands perspective and strengthens teaching.
Some are places I've explored firsthand. Others are destinations I'm intentionally working toward as part of my own journey as an educator, leader, and traveler. Together, they reflect the belief that travel expands perspective and strengthens teaching.
Each feature includes a brief reflection, a classroom connection, and a personal takeaway to inspire educators to see travel as professional growth.
Each feature includes a brief reflection, a classroom connection, and a personal takeaway to inspire educators to see travel as professional growth.
The Traveling Teacher’s Bucket List: #3 Florence, Finding the Art of Living Slowly
The Traveling Teacher’s Bucket List: #3 Florence, Finding the Art of Living Slowly
As a former History teacher, Florence has always held a special place in my heart, but my 2022 visit transformed the way I experienced the city.
Through a Language Immersion Fellowship with the University of Pittsburgh European Studies Center, I spent two weeks studying Italian, taking a cooking class (with my daughter), exploring Lucca and Siena, and searching for Florence's famous buchette di vino (wine windows). Instead of rushing from landmark to landmark, I slowed down, wandered the city's streets, and embraced the joy of getting lost.
Of course, I revisited iconic sites like Il Duomo, Santa Croce, and Palazzo Pitti, but this trip became about more than sightseeing. It taught me to appreciate Florence not just as the birthplace of the Renaissance, but as a place that encourages curiosity, reflection, and lifelong learning.
For history, art, and humanities educators, Florence is more than a destination; it's an outdoor classroom. Walking the same streets as Renaissance artists and thinkers brings history to life in ways no textbook ever could.
Bucket List Verdict: Every educator should experience Florence at least once. Some of the best lessons aren't taught in classrooms; they're found while wandering the streets of Florence.
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List Series: #2 Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Yorktown, Virginia
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List Series: #2 Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Yorktown, Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg doesn’t feel like a preserved town. It feels like an unfinished conversation, one where the promises of liberty, equality, and democracy are still being debated centuries later.
As an educator, you can’t simply walk its streets. Every building, interpreter, and primary source asks you to reconsider the stories we’ve inherited and the questions we continue to ask. Standing inside the Capitol and the Governor’s Palace, the founding ideals of the United States become both inspiring and unsettling. The language of freedom existed alongside slavery, exclusion, and unequal rights. Those contradictions aren’t footnotes to history, they’re part of the story.
Listening to the voices of enslaved people, women, tradespeople, and Indigenous communities reminds you that the nation’s history has never belonged to a single perspective. Understanding the past demands that we make room for the voices that were too often left out.
What always strikes me most isn't that Colonial Williamsburg preserves the eighteenth century, but that it challenges us to think about the unfinished work of democracy. The United States has never been a finished project. It has always been a nation wrestling with the gap between its ideals and its reality. Every generation inherits the responsibility to decide whether those ideals become more inclusive, more just, and more fully realized.
The lesson here isn’t simply about the American Revolution. It’s about recognizing that democracy is never complete. This stop on the bucket list wasn’t about stepping back in time.
It was about being reminded that the story of the United States is still being written, and each of us has a role in the next chapter.
The Weaver's Workshop
Historic Jamestown
History After Dark
The Governor's Palace
Interpreting the Past at the Capitol
The Capitol
Surrender Field, Yorktown
James Southall, owner fo Raleigh Tavern
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List Series: #1 Athens, Greece
The Traveling Teacher Bucket List Series: #1 Athens, Greece
Athens feels like a layered argument, ancient stone, modern streets, and centuries of competing ideas about power, democracy, and identity all occupying the same space. As a teacher, you can’t move through it passively. Every site pulls you into deeper questions than most curriculum allows.
At the Acropolis, the story of democracy becomes less clean than textbooks suggest. You’re left asking who was included, who was excluded, and why we still teach it in simplified form. In the National Archaeological Museum, history stops being narrative and becomes evidence, fragmented pieces that require interpretation, not memorization.
And in the streets of Athens, civic life is visible in real time: messy, multilingual, and constantly negotiating what belonging looks like. The lesson here isn’t just content. It’s perspective. Athens forces a different kind of teaching mindset, one that slows down, resists easy answers, and stays with complexity long enough to let it reshape how history and civics are taught.
This stop on the bucket list isn’t about what I saw. It’s about what I can no longer unsee in the way I teach.
Parthenon
Oracle of Delphi
Meteora
The Odeonn of Herodes Atticus
From the "Old" Files
From the "Old" Files
#Bucketlist Day 17
#Bucketlist Day 17
12/19/2017
This year for my birthday my husband gave me a DNA kit. He knows I am interested in genealogy and that I had been working on completing a family tree. The kit gave me all kids of information, some of it I knew about and some of it was 100% new to me. So far since 2013 I have been able to go back to the 1400's on my mother's side of the family, and let me tell you that is some interesting stuff. For example I found out that Lady Mirle who was from Venice, Italy had a daughter who married a gentleman from Portugal, they had several kids and some emigrated to Brazil, from there some emigrated to Puerto Rico and that's just part of how my great-grandfather's family came to be. I have also recently found out that my mother's great-grandmother was a Sephardi Jew from Tossa del Mar in Spain in the Catalonia Region, which explains why they did not want my great grandmother to marry my great-grandfather.
This year for my birthday my husband gave me a DNA kit. He knows I am interested in genealogy and that I had been working on completing a family tree. The kit gave me all kids of information, some of it I knew about and some of it was 100% new to me. So far since 2013 I have been able to go back to the 1400's on my mother's side of the family, and let me tell you that is some interesting stuff. For example I found out that Lady Mirle who was from Venice, Italy had a daughter who married a gentleman from Portugal, they had several kids and some emigrated to Brazil, from there some emigrated to Puerto Rico and that's just part of how my great-grandfather's family came to be. I have also recently found out that my mother's great-grandmother was a Sephardi Jew from Tossa del Mar in Spain in the Catalonia Region, which explains why they did not want my great grandmother to marry my great-grandfather.
On my father's side I am stuck. It's almost as if they dropped out of nowhere. All I have been able to find out is that my father's great-grandfather came from the Dominican Republic back in the 1700's. I hope to find more information but everyone in that family has passed away and there are no leads to go on. Finishing my family tree is definitely on my bucket list. The next step right now is to obtain birth certificates from my mother's family to prove our Jewish ancestry, the second step is to travel to travel to Tossa del Mar in the Catalonia Region to find out more about my great-grandmother's family.
On my father's side I am stuck. It's almost as if they dropped out of nowhere. All I have been able to find out is that my father's great-grandfather came from the Dominican Republic back in the 1700's. I hope to find more information but everyone in that family has passed away and there are no leads to go on. Finishing my family tree is definitely on my bucket list. The next step right now is to obtain birth certificates from my mother's family to prove our Jewish ancestry, the second step is to travel to travel to Tossa del Mar in the Catalonia Region to find out more about my great-grandmother's family.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 16
#Bucketlist Day 16
12/8/2017
I've had a hard time lately focusing on writing. It could be the 198 page paper I just wrote for grad school, the leadership opportunities I'm taking on at work, or it could simply be that it's almost Christmas Break and I am mentally and physically drained. Whatever the reason is, I need to push myself more.
I've had a hard time lately focusing on writing. It could be the 198 page paper I just wrote for grad school, the leadership opportunities I'm taking on at work, or it could simply be that it's almost Christmas Break and I am mentally and physically drained. Whatever the reason is, I need to push myself more.
Today's #bucketlist is to go to the Albuquerque Air Balloon Festival, also know as Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. I first read about the festival in a middle school magazine back in the early '90s and the colors were vivid, the people looked like they were having fun, and the balloons were huge and in fun shapes. We have several balloon festivals in North Texas but none like the Albuquerque. The festival goes on for an entire week and involves everything from lights laser show to a chainsaw carving competition, lol. The next festival will take place from October 6 to October 14, 2018.
Today's #bucketlist is to go to the Albuquerque Air Balloon Festival, also know as Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. I first read about the festival in a middle school magazine back in the early '90s and the colors were vivid, the people looked like they were having fun, and the balloons were huge and in fun shapes. We have several balloon festivals in North Texas but none like the Albuquerque. The festival goes on for an entire week and involves everything from lights laser show to a chainsaw carving competition, lol. The next festival will take place from October 6 to October 14, 2018.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 15
#Bucketlist Day 15
12/3/2017
On December 16th, 2017, I will be walking at my graduation ceremony. For those of you that don't know me in October 2016, I started working on a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership (MEd). My goal was to graduate in 18 months; a lot of people told me that goal was lofty and unaccomplishable because I was also teaching full time and had two kids that were still in high school.
On December 16th, 2017, I will be walking at my graduation ceremony. For those of you that don't know me in October 2016, I started working on a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership (MEd). My goal was to graduate in 18 months; a lot of people told me that goal was lofty and unaccomplishable because I was also teaching full time and had two kids that were still in high school.
Well, I am here to tell you that if you want something bad enough you need to go after it. Like I often say to my students, nothing was ever accomplished by just sitting there, you have to get up and make it happen. I was able to complete my MEd in 14 months and have a 3.9 G.P.A.! Now it's time to set another goal a Ph.D.
Well, I am here to tell you that if you want something bad enough you need to go after it. Like I often say to my students, nothing was ever accomplished by just sitting there, you have to get up and make it happen. I was able to complete my MEd in 14 months and have a 3.9 G.P.A.! Now it's time to set another goal a Ph.D.
However, this new goal puts me at a crossroads. Do I want to pursue a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, or do I want to pursue a career in Teaching History at the college level? If the first one is my option, then I can start next fall. If the second option is what my heart desires (and I fear it is), then I have to get a master's in history, and that will take another 14-18 months, then I can be ready for that coveted Ph.D.
However, this new goal puts me at a crossroads. Do I want to pursue a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, or do I want to pursue a career in Teaching History at the college level? If the first one is my option, then I can start next fall. If the second option is what my heart desires (and I fear it is), then I have to get a master's in history, and that will take another 14-18 months, then I can be ready for that coveted Ph.D.
I love learning, but just the thought of having to go through another Master's program makes me cringe. One of my former students, a current 8th grader, reminded me of something I told her when she was in 6th grade, "Nothing that was ever worth it is easy or fast."
I love learning, but just the thought of having to go through another Master's program makes me cringe. One of my former students, a current 8th grader, reminded me of something I told her when she was in 6th grade, "Nothing that was ever worth it is easy or fast."
Now it’s time for me to sit down and think about what I really want to do.
Now it’s time for me to sit down and think about what I really want to do.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 14
#Bucketlist Day 14
12/1/2017
Most of you have noticed that I've been a bit absent from the blog lately. There is no excuse really, life has happened. I teach, I'm a mom, and I'm in Grad School so things just sort of get in the way of writing sometimes.
Most of you have noticed that I've been a bit absent from the blog lately. There is no excuse really, life has happened. I teach, I'm a mom, and I'm in Grad School so things just sort of get in the way of writing sometimes.
Day 14 takes me to Israel. Here are the Top 5 reasons why I want to visit Israel.
Day 14 takes me to Israel. Here are the Top 5 reasons why I want to visit Israel.
1. The Western Wall - also known as the Wailing Wall or the Krotel - it is one of the holiest places in Judaism. Every year millions millions visit, either to pray at this short segment of ancient wall that is believed to be the last remnant of the Second Temple built by Solomon or to marvel at its splendor.
1. The Western Wall - also known as the Wailing Wall or the Krotel - it is one of the holiest places in Judaism. Every year millions millions visit, either to pray at this short segment of ancient wall that is believed to be the last remnant of the Second Temple built by Solomon or to marvel at its splendor.
2. Dome of the Rock - This golden dome Temple Mount can be seen from around the city of Jerusalem and is the third-holiest site in Sunni Islam. Muslims believe this to be the spot where Muhammad was transported from Mecca during the Night Journey.
2. Dome of the Rock - This golden dome Temple Mount can be seen from around the city of Jerusalem and is the third-holiest site in Sunni Islam. Muslims believe this to be the spot where Muhammad was transported from Mecca during the Night Journey.
3. Tel-Aviv - Jerusalem is not the only city in Israel. Tel-Aviv is its cosmopolitan daring sister, like the Manhattan of Israel. Tel-Aviv is the heart and soul of Israel's culinary, cultural scene. Bonus: Tel-Aviv is also a beach town!
3. Tel-Aviv - Jerusalem is not the only city in Israel. Tel-Aviv is its cosmopolitan daring sister, like the Manhattan of Israel. Tel-Aviv is the heart and soul of Israel's culinary, cultural scene. Bonus: Tel-Aviv is also a beach town!
4. The Dead Sea - It's not only the lowest place on Earth, but you also can’t really swim in it. The salty water means that you just float there calmly and relaxing, not only that but the mud is actually bottled and sold around the world as a beauty product.
4. The Dead Sea - It's not only the lowest place on Earth, but you also can’t really swim in it. The salty water means that you just float there calmly and relaxing, not only that but the mud is actually bottled and sold around the world as a beauty product.
5. History - I am a self proclaimed History Geek! From the Bible to the Crusaders to the Ottoman Empire, the land on which Israel was founded has seen it all. Old Cities like Jerusalem, Jaffa and, Lod are some the oldest in the world, and a trip to Israel let's you to see sites as old as history itself. In Israel you can experience everything from Roman ruins to Templar villages, a visit to Israel is a way to experience history with the amenities of modern world.
5. History - I am a self proclaimed History Geek! From the Bible to the Crusaders to the Ottoman Empire, the land on which Israel was founded has seen it all. Old Cities like Jerusalem, Jaffa and, Lod are some the oldest in the world, and a trip to Israel let's you to see sites as old as history itself. In Israel you can experience everything from Roman ruins to Templar villages, a visit to Israel is a way to experience history with the amenities of modern world.
#Bucketlist Day 13
#Bucketlist Day 13
11/26/2017
In light of the season and of #GivingTuesday being just around the corner, this #bucketlist post is about giving. I would like to give more to those who needed most.
In light of the season and of #GivingTuesday being just around the corner, this #bucketlist post is about giving. I would like to give more to those who needed most.
Many people think giving is about money and stuff. I feel that giving is more about you. Giving more of yourself. Giving more of what you are happy to give, not necessarily what you have the most of. Giving time to listen to others, to help others, to do something for others might make you feel a lot better than giving more money. We watched Christmas with the Kranks last night for like the millionth time. Throughout the movie there were several instances in which the Krank's give back by volunteering at the children's hospital, the soup kitchen, their daughter joins the Peace Corps, etc. I mentioned to my husband that I'd like to do that, if I didn't have a job. But, right now I'm just sitting here not doing anything at all productive, why not give. I will start on #Giving Tuesday by donating to 40 projects from the Caring Classrooms Pinterest Board.
Many people think giving is about money and stuff. I feel that giving is more about you. Giving more of yourself. Giving more of what you are happy to give, not necessarily what you have the most of. Giving time to listen to others, to help others, to do something for others might make you feel a lot better than giving more money. We watched Christmas with the Kranks last night for like the millionth time. Throughout the movie there were several instances in which the Krank's give back by volunteering at the children's hospital, the soup kitchen, their daughter joins the Peace Corps, etc. I mentioned to my husband that I'd like to do that, if I didn't have a job. But, right now I'm just sitting here not doing anything at all productive, why not give. I will start on #Giving Tuesday by donating to 40 projects from the Caring Classrooms Pinterest Board.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay Tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay Tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 12
#Bucketlist Day 12
11/25/2017
I have been so lazy this entire week it's unreal, I try to be as lazy as possible every break we get from school, yes that is one of my goals in life, lol. This week between Thanksgiving, grad school papers, and spending time with my loved ones decorating our home, I forgot to post some #bucketlist items, so here we go! Day 11 of #bucketlist takes us to Antarctica!
I have been so lazy this entire week it's unreal, I try to be as lazy as possible every break we get from school, yes that is one of my goals in life, lol. This week between Thanksgiving, grad school papers, and spending time with my loved ones decorating our home, I forgot to post some #bucketlist items, so here we go! Day 11 of #bucketlist takes us to Antarctica!
I never really wanted to go to Antarctica until last year, when we had a Skype in the Classroom session with a scientist and a cartoonist who were both in Antarctica, it was the coolest thing ever, and my students loved it! We were able to see the landscape, experience the weather, and learn about two very different people who were in Antarctica for very various reasons. I'm interested in learning more about the icebergs there and how climate change is affecting the landscape and the animals that reside there. I'd also like to learn more about what type of research scientists are doing there. But most of all I want to see the Southern Lights and those cute little penguins!
I never really wanted to go to Antarctica until last year, when we had a Skype in the Classroom session with a scientist and a cartoonist who were both in Antarctica, it was the coolest thing ever, and my students loved it! We were able to see the landscape, experience the weather, and learn about two very different people who were in Antarctica for very various reasons. I'm interested in learning more about the icebergs there and how climate change is affecting the landscape and the animals that reside there. I'd also like to learn more about what type of research scientists are doing there. But most of all I want to see the Southern Lights and those cute little penguins!
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 11
#Bucketlist Day 11
11/22/2017
I know this post is a day late and there is no excuse for it, it's called laziness. Day 11 is to visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau. Yes, this post is about Auschwitz. No, it's not another dreary post. Yes, what happened there is horrible, but I refuse to dwell on it. We should instead focus on learning and educating others if we intend to prevent anything like that from ever happening again towards anyone, anywhere.
I know this post is a day late and there is no excuse for it, it's called laziness. Day 11 is to visit Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau. Yes, this post is about Auschwitz. No, it's not another dreary post. Yes, what happened there is horrible, but I refuse to dwell on it. We should instead focus on learning and educating others if we intend to prevent anything like that from ever happening again towards anyone, anywhere.
I am a mom, a Social Studies teacher, and somewhere in my family tree, there are Jewish ancestors (whom I'd like to learn more about). As a mother and a teacher it is my duty to teach my children and my students about what happened in every Nazi concentration camp and how we can prevent it from happening again. It is also my responsibility to learn the facts, to gather the history, and to document what I learn about every aspect of WWII not just the Holocaust. In 2016 my family and I visited Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site and we learned and reflected so much on what happened there. It was also really nice to see how many young families and students were there learning about what happened there. Dachau is quiet, calm, almost muted, the birds didn't chirp, the stream that runs along the camp wasn't babbling and the trail to the camp from the visitor center was surrounded by green luscious trees and plants. The gates were large, and eerie. I imagine that Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau will be similar but different if that makes any sense. As long as I can remember this is the part of history that has attracted me the most. It is hard for me to comprehend how a human being can just stand by and watch this happen and not say or do anything. I hope that our future visit to Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau will be an opportunity to learn more not only about what happened there, but about the people, about the town that surrounds it, and maybe a little more about myself as well.
I am a mom, a Social Studies teacher, and somewhere in my family tree, there are Jewish ancestors (whom I'd like to learn more about). As a mother and a teacher it is my duty to teach my children and my students about what happened in every Nazi concentration camp and how we can prevent it from happening again. It is also my responsibility to learn the facts, to gather the history, and to document what I learn about every aspect of WWII not just the Holocaust. In 2016 my family and I visited Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site and we learned and reflected so much on what happened there. It was also really nice to see how many young families and students were there learning about what happened there. Dachau is quiet, calm, almost muted, the birds didn't chirp, the stream that runs along the camp wasn't babbling and the trail to the camp from the visitor center was surrounded by green luscious trees and plants. The gates were large, and eerie. I imagine that Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau will be similar but different if that makes any sense. As long as I can remember this is the part of history that has attracted me the most. It is hard for me to comprehend how a human being can just stand by and watch this happen and not say or do anything. I hope that our future visit to Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II Birkenau will be an opportunity to learn more not only about what happened there, but about the people, about the town that surrounds it, and maybe a little more about myself as well.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 10
#Bucketlist Day 10
11/20/2017
I have been toying with the idea of writing a book for quite a while now. The trouble is that there are a lot of things I'd like to write about and getting my thoughts in order is a bit hard because of my ADHD.
I have been toying with the idea of writing a book for quite a while now. The trouble is that there are a lot of things I'd like to write about and getting my thoughts in order is a bit hard because of my ADHD.
Like everything in life when there are too many good options, what do we pick? My choices are the following; my dad, travel, my kids, and being a teacher who travels. There is a lot for me to write about when it comes to my dad, he passed on a lot of wisdom and a book about his life would be a way to immortalize him and let the world know that although parents are not perfect, they always leave something good behind. I could write about all the things learned while traveling, phrases to learn, packing tips, navigating through foreign countries, traveling with kids, etc., but let's face it I am no Rick Steves, and would much rather read his books and watch his shows like I've been doing since middle school. My kids would be a good topic and the lessons learned by being a mother, but would anyone read that? Writing about being a Traveling Teacher would be cool, and it would be something that other teachers might be interested in reading. I could write about getting funding for traveling, teacher institutes, places to go depending on what you teach, what to bring back to the classroom, etc.
Like everything in life when there are too many good options, what do we pick? My choices are the following; my dad, travel, my kids, and being a teacher who travels. There is a lot for me to write about when it comes to my dad, he passed on a lot of wisdom and a book about his life would be a way to immortalize him and let the world know that although parents are not perfect, they always leave something good behind. I could write about all the things learned while traveling, phrases to learn, packing tips, navigating through foreign countries, traveling with kids, etc., but let's face it I am no Rick Steves, and would much rather read his books and watch his shows like I've been doing since middle school. My kids would be a good topic and the lessons learned by being a mother, but would anyone read that? Writing about being a Traveling Teacher would be cool, and it would be something that other teachers might be interested in reading. I could write about getting funding for traveling, teacher institutes, places to go depending on what you teach, what to bring back to the classroom, etc.
Now that it is narrowed down to two strong topics my dad and being a Traveling Teacher, what to pick will be the new problem. If you have suggestions, I am open to them.
Now that it is narrowed down to two strong topics my dad and being a Traveling Teacher, what to pick will be the new problem. If you have suggestions, I am open to them.
Writing and Publishing a book is in my #bucketlist. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
Writing and Publishing a book is in my #bucketlist. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 9
#Bucketlist Day 9
11/19/2017
During my senior year of high school I used to look at a picture of Bora Bora quite often. It wasn't the color of the ocean or the lush greenery that attracted me, it was the fact that Bora Bora was far from everyone I knew and that's where I wanted to be, far.
During my senior year of high school I used to look at a picture of Bora Bora quite often. It wasn't the color of the ocean or the lush greenery that attracted me, it was the fact that Bora Bora was far from everyone I knew and that's where I wanted to be, far.
Senior year was not easy for reasons that I will not mention here, my goal was to save some money and go to Bora Bora and live there away from everything and everyone I knew. I've realized since then that running isn't going to save you or make life better. However, appreciating yourself and the decisions you have made will benefit you in countless ways. The people, things, and events that hurt you happen for a reason, right now you may not see it but in due time their purpose will be made clear (I can almost hear Dumbledore telling me this). There is a purpose for everything and running will only delay the process of growing wiser.
Senior year was not easy for reasons that I will not mention here, my goal was to save some money and go to Bora Bora and live there away from everything and everyone I knew. I've realized since then that running isn't going to save you or make life better. However, appreciating yourself and the decisions you have made will benefit you in countless ways. The people, things, and events that hurt you happen for a reason, right now you may not see it but in due time their purpose will be made clear (I can almost hear Dumbledore telling me this). There is a purpose for everything and running will only delay the process of growing wiser.
I still want to go to Bora Bora, I still want to climb that mountain, and I still want to swim in that beach; but I also want to come back, perhaps not right away because vacations are life! But eventually, when the vacation starts to become mundane and I realize that the beach isn't like the one at home, and the mountain is just a mountain.
I still want to go to Bora Bora, I still want to climb that mountain, and I still want to swim in that beach; but I also want to come back, perhaps not right away because vacations are life! But eventually, when the vacation starts to become mundane and I realize that the beach isn't like the one at home, and the mountain is just a mountain.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 8
#Bucketlist Day 8
11/18/2017
Day 8 of #bucketlist is very special. It’s all about my Harry Potter obsession. This obsession is shared with my kids who are college aged. We watch every Harry Potter marathon on tv, we have been sorted into houses, we know the core of our wands, and we have watched every movie at the theatre during its first week including Fantastic Beasts (anxiously awaiting the next one).
Day 8 of #bucketlist is very special. It’s all about my Harry Potter obsession. This obsession is shared with my kids who are college aged. We watch every Harry Potter marathon on tv, we have been sorted into houses, we know the core of our wands, and we have watched every movie at the theatre during its first week including Fantastic Beasts (anxiously awaiting the next one).
I love the movies, the books, the characters, and am still waiting for my letter. But most of all I love the experience of sharing this with my kids. The excitement of every adventure, learning new spells, and winning quidditch games are just the cherry on top.
I love the movies, the books, the characters, and am still waiting for my letter. But most of all I love the experience of sharing this with my kids. The excitement of every adventure, learning new spells, and winning quidditch games are just the cherry on top.
Together we want to visit every filming location. We want to go to King’s Cross, Australia House, and Millenium Bridge. We want to visit Scotland Yard, Claremont Square, and visit the reptiles at the London Zoo. We want to shop at Leadenhall Market and be inspired at The Elephant House.
Together we want to visit every filming location. We want to go to King’s Cross, Australia House, and Millenium Bridge. We want to visit Scotland Yard, Claremont Square, and visit the reptiles at the London Zoo. We want to shop at Leadenhall Market and be inspired at The Elephant House.
In the meantime, and until we check this off our #bucketlist we’ll keep watching every Harry Potter marathon and relive every adventure together.
In the meantime, and until we check this off our #bucketlist we’ll keep watching every Harry Potter marathon and relive every adventure together.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 7
#Bucketlist Day 7
11/17/2017
Wow! It's been an entire week of #bucketlist thank you so much for reading I am amazed and honored at how many people are actually reading and sharing their own #bucketlist items with me.
Wow! It's been an entire week of #bucketlist thank you so much for reading I am amazed and honored at how many people are actually reading and sharing their own #bucketlist items with me.
Today's #bucketlist is something special, ever since I can remember Italy has captured my heart and mind. When I was in kindergarten there was a PBS documentary about Pompeii which completely fascinated me, my father would tell me stories about eating the best pizza in the world at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, of his adventures in Naples and Venice. Through his stories, all things were possible including me moving to Italy one day, even if it was only for a year. In 2010 I decided that my first trip to Italy was happening and thanks to my dad in the summer of 2011 my fiancee (husband now) and I embarked on the journey of a lifetime.
Today's #bucketlist is something special, ever since I can remember Italy has captured my heart and mind. When I was in kindergarten there was a PBS documentary about Pompeii which completely fascinated me, my father would tell me stories about eating the best pizza in the world at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, of his adventures in Naples and Venice. Through his stories, all things were possible including me moving to Italy one day, even if it was only for a year. In 2010 I decided that my first trip to Italy was happening and thanks to my dad in the summer of 2011 my fiancee (husband now) and I embarked on the journey of a lifetime.
Our first stop was Venice, aside from visiting the major sites, San Marco and its Campanile, Murano glass factories, and Burano lace factories we also decided to get lost in the city and even visited the beach at Lido. The next stop took us to Florence with a visit to Pisa en route to our destination, aside from getting lost and boarding a train in the wrong direction we made it there in one piece, lol. Florence is beautiful, every inch of it has a little piece of history waiting to be discovered. From the Duomo to Santa Croce and the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence is a masterpiece its almost as if Leonardo himself had carved it.
Our first stop was Venice, aside from visiting the major sites, San Marco and its Campanile, Murano glass factories, and Burano lace factories we also decided to get lost in the city and even visited the beach at Lido. The next stop took us to Florence with a visit to Pisa en route to our destination, aside from getting lost and boarding a train in the wrong direction we made it there in one piece, lol. Florence is beautiful, every inch of it has a little piece of history waiting to be discovered. From the Duomo to Santa Croce and the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence is a masterpiece its almost as if Leonardo himself had carved it.
The Eternal City of Rome was our home for the next few days, and as soon as we arrived we decided to take a walk. We walked through a park and then out of nowhere the Colosseumgreeted us basked in the golden light of the sunset. We visited Vatican City, and just basically enjoyed the Dolce Vita atmosphere of Rome, it was hot but it was glorious!
The Eternal City of Rome was our home for the next few days, and as soon as we arrived we decided to take a walk. We walked through a park and then out of nowhere the Colosseumgreeted us basked in the golden light of the sunset. We visited Vatican City, and just basically enjoyed the Dolce Vita atmosphere of Rome, it was hot but it was glorious!
After Rome, we went to Naples. If you know me then you know that for me pizza is life! The best pizza in the world (seriously nothing anywhere else even comes close) is found at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele. The place is small, the lines are long, and Naples in the summer feels like a pizza oven, but eating pizza at Michele's is worth the walk in the hot summer, this pizza is truly the stuff that dreams are made of and it is everything my dad ever told me about. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast greeted us with open arms and with lemons as big as my head. We rented a scooter and had a blast riding through one-lane roads of the Amalfi Coast, it was beautiful and surreal, to say the least.
After Rome, we went to Naples. If you know me then you know that for me pizza is life! The best pizza in the world (seriously nothing anywhere else even comes close) is found at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele. The place is small, the lines are long, and Naples in the summer feels like a pizza oven, but eating pizza at Michele's is worth the walk in the hot summer, this pizza is truly the stuff that dreams are made of and it is everything my dad ever told me about. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast greeted us with open arms and with lemons as big as my head. We rented a scooter and had a blast riding through one-lane roads of the Amalfi Coast, it was beautiful and surreal, to say the least.
For all these reasons I could live in Italy for the rest of my life, I'd pack up right now and leave if it was possible. In Italy life moves slower, the flavors are abundant, and history is everywhere. In Italy everything is possible, history and modern life meet to create an atmosphere of beauty in every step you take.
For all these reasons I could live in Italy for the rest of my life, I'd pack up right now and leave if it was possible. In Italy life moves slower, the flavors are abundant, and history is everywhere. In Italy everything is possible, history and modern life meet to create an atmosphere of beauty in every step you take.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 6
#Bucketlist Day 6
11/16/2017
Today's bucket list takes me to a place I've been eyeing for a while, 'El Camino de Santiago' (The Way of St.James). There's two reasons why most people set on a journey to walk along the Camino of Santiago (Way of St. James) – they either want to embark on a pilgrimage or for true believers it is a challenge that gets caught in the imagination. In my case it is neither, it all started out as curiosity. I was going through a rough time and felt the need to get to know myself better. So, I started researching the Camino. I watched several documentaries, a Martin Sheen movie, and joined a Facebook group. Since then, I've learned a lot about the Camino and about myself.
Today's bucket list takes me to a place I've been eyeing for a while, 'El Camino de Santiago' (The Way of St.James). There's two reasons why most people set on a journey to walk along the Camino of Santiago (Way of St. James) – they either want to embark on a pilgrimage or for true believers it is a challenge that gets caught in the imagination. In my case it is neither, it all started out as curiosity. I was going through a rough time and felt the need to get to know myself better. So, I started researching the Camino. I watched several documentaries, a Martin Sheen movie, and joined a Facebook group. Since then, I've learned a lot about the Camino and about myself.
I'd like to walk it with my daughter simply because I feel that it would be a bonding experience for the two of us as well as a challenge. If we can walk the Camino, we can do anything. However, I wouldn't mind going at as a journey of self discovery, finding our strength is sometimes the hardest thing to do and the Camino will challenge you not only physically but also mentally, and spiritually. For me, the Camino is like one of those self help books, that allows you to get some insight into yourself while basking on the scenery and enjoying nature.
I'd like to walk it with my daughter simply because I feel that it would be a bonding experience for the two of us as well as a challenge. If we can walk the Camino, we can do anything. However, I wouldn't mind going at as a journey of self discovery, finding our strength is sometimes the hardest thing to do and the Camino will challenge you not only physically but also mentally, and spiritually. For me, the Camino is like one of those self help books, that allows you to get some insight into yourself while basking on the scenery and enjoying nature.
There are different routes that people follow all over the world. Some start in Ireland, others right here in the United States, others in Lisbon. I want to start at the south of France, in a small town called St. Jean Pied de Port from there the Camino takes about 30-45 days and crosses into Spain, this portion of the Camino is called 'El Camino Francés', no matter where you start the Camino always ends at the town of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Through the Pyrenees, the vineyards of La Rioja, the vast open spaces of the Meseta, the rugged mountains of Leon and O Cebreiro, the terrain and faith challenges you every step of the way. The length of the Camino Francés, is about 790km or about 491 miles, some people walk the entire length at once others choose to walk different sections for a week or two at a time.
There are different routes that people follow all over the world. Some start in Ireland, others right here in the United States, others in Lisbon. I want to start at the south of France, in a small town called St. Jean Pied de Port from there the Camino takes about 30-45 days and crosses into Spain, this portion of the Camino is called 'El Camino Francés', no matter where you start the Camino always ends at the town of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Through the Pyrenees, the vineyards of La Rioja, the vast open spaces of the Meseta, the rugged mountains of Leon and O Cebreiro, the terrain and faith challenges you every step of the way. The length of the Camino Francés, is about 790km or about 491 miles, some people walk the entire length at once others choose to walk different sections for a week or two at a time.
The shell is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Camino de Santiago it is used, with the yellow arrow, to guide pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela along the many routes. You can find it painted on trees, sidewalks, tiles, etc… the scallop shell will help pilgrims on the Camino find their way. This picture below was taken in Germany on the route to Burg Eltz, I walked part of the Camino and it wasn't even planned. It was undoubtedly one of the best experiences in my life.
The shell is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Camino de Santiago it is used, with the yellow arrow, to guide pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela along the many routes. You can find it painted on trees, sidewalks, tiles, etc… the scallop shell will help pilgrims on the Camino find their way. This picture below was taken in Germany on the route to Burg Eltz, I walked part of the Camino and it wasn't even planned. It was undoubtedly one of the best experiences in my life.
One of the most important things about walking the Camino is that the journey is different for everyone. Most people prefer to walk, but others bike or horse ride, and there are organizations that help those who have some kind of mobility impairment so they too can do their own Camino. In 2016 I had the opportunity of walking in a little chuck of the Camino in Germany without even planning it, and it was beautiful. Everyone walks the Camino in their own way., LIFE and the Camino are your journeys live them in the best way possible for you.
One of the most important things about walking the Camino is that the journey is different for everyone. Most people prefer to walk, but others bike or horse ride, and there are organizations that help those who have some kind of mobility impairment so they too can do their own Camino. In 2016 I had the opportunity of walking in a little chuck of the Camino in Germany without even planning it, and it was beautiful. Everyone walks the Camino in their own way., LIFE and the Camino are your journeys live them in the best way possible for you.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 5
#Bucketlist Day 5
11/15/2017
Today's #bucketlist takes us to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. My father was in the U.S. Marine Corps and Army long before I was born, he traveled the world and he fought in Vietnam and Korea. during his time in Vietnam like many other soldiers my father visited Cambodia, he would tell me abut the lush valleys and the rice patties. He would describe the villages in detail and would tell me about the local people he met during his time there. One place that he visited briefly was Angkor Wat, he always wanted to return there to explore it more (he was an amateur photographer and loved archaeology) but was unable to return.
Today's #bucketlist takes us to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. My father was in the U.S. Marine Corps and Army long before I was born, he traveled the world and he fought in Vietnam and Korea. during his time in Vietnam like many other soldiers my father visited Cambodia, he would tell me abut the lush valleys and the rice patties. He would describe the villages in detail and would tell me about the local people he met during his time there. One place that he visited briefly was Angkor Wat, he always wanted to return there to explore it more (he was an amateur photographer and loved archaeology) but was unable to return.
He described Angkor Wat as one of those places that captivated the soul and spirit of humans with its mysteries and labyrinth of temples, with its monks and peculiar architecture. And that is how my father has influenced day 5 of #bucketlist. I want to go to Cambodia and visit Angkor Wat, I want to lay my hands on it and experience the misery of its ruins, the color of its jungle, the smell of its flowers. I want to get lost in its labyrinth of temples imagining all the events that took place there and all the people that have walked through it.
He described Angkor Wat as one of those places that captivated the soul and spirit of humans with its mysteries and labyrinth of temples, with its monks and peculiar architecture. And that is how my father has influenced day 5 of #bucketlist. I want to go to Cambodia and visit Angkor Wat, I want to lay my hands on it and experience the misery of its ruins, the color of its jungle, the smell of its flowers. I want to get lost in its labyrinth of temples imagining all the events that took place there and all the people that have walked through it.
Something many people don't know is that other temples in the area are aligned to face the east, the temple at Angkor Wat faces the west in evening as the sun sets Angkor Wat glimmers in all its might, turning it into the stuff that visions are made off.
Something many people don't know is that other temples in the area are aligned to face the east, the temple at Angkor Wat faces the west in evening as the sun sets Angkor Wat glimmers in all its might, turning it into the stuff that visions are made off.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 4
#Bucketlist Day 4
11/14/2017
My next bucket list item may sound strange and even silly to some, considering that the previous three have been about traveling. #Bucketlist item four is to learn how to hand embroider.
My next bucket list item may sound strange and even silly to some, considering that the previous three have been about traveling. #Bucketlist item four is to learn how to hand embroider.
At around the age of three I started to spend almost every day with my grandmother, my mom was in the Army and we were lucky enough to live close to my güela (grandmother) that she could be my sitter. She would wake up extremely early to make lunch, clean the house, and start the laundry every day, I still remember her humming and singing as she did her daily chores. She would make me the most delicious and simple breakfasts and yes, she got me hooked on coffee. As I grew older school started and our time together began to shrink. That's when I started spending most weekends with her. We'd go to church, shop, watch the cars pass by, and watch the rain fall, we also watched a lot of novelas (Spanish soap operas). When I was about nine she started to teach me hand embroidery. I had a little red sewing box with needles, thread, and little pieces of fabric. Every Saturday we would sit in her porch and she would teach me how to embroider things. Our lessons stopped in 1991 when I was ten. Güela died suddenly and that's when I put away the little red sewing box and never opened it again.
At around the age of three I started to spend almost every day with my grandmother, my mom was in the Army and we were lucky enough to live close to my güela (grandmother) that she could be my sitter. She would wake up extremely early to make lunch, clean the house, and start the laundry every day, I still remember her humming and singing as she did her daily chores. She would make me the most delicious and simple breakfasts and yes, she got me hooked on coffee. As I grew older school started and our time together began to shrink. That's when I started spending most weekends with her. We'd go to church, shop, watch the cars pass by, and watch the rain fall, we also watched a lot of novelas (Spanish soap operas). When I was about nine she started to teach me hand embroidery. I had a little red sewing box with needles, thread, and little pieces of fabric. Every Saturday we would sit in her porch and she would teach me how to embroider things. Our lessons stopped in 1991 when I was ten. Güela died suddenly and that's when I put away the little red sewing box and never opened it again.
To this day I have no idea where the box went, we moved around too much for me to keep track and if I am to be completely honest, I never wanted to see it again. You see, my güela was one of the most profound influences in my life, and she still is. Most of the things I know is because they were learned from her. Most of the things my daughter knows is because I have passed them on from my güela. Sometimes I can almost hear her when my daughter sings.
To this day I have no idea where the box went, we moved around too much for me to keep track and if I am to be completely honest, I never wanted to see it again. You see, my güela was one of the most profound influences in my life, and she still is. Most of the things I know is because they were learned from her. Most of the things my daughter knows is because I have passed them on from my güela. Sometimes I can almost hear her when my daughter sings.
So, yes hand embroidery may not seem like much but to me it's one of those things that would bring me closer to my güela once again.
So, yes hand embroidery may not seem like much but to me it's one of those things that would bring me closer to my güela once again.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 3
#Bucketlist Day 3
11/13/2017
Day 3 of #bucketlist is to Climb Machu Picchu. I have to say this is something that has only recently (past 5-6 years) been an obsession of mine. Yes, I love traveling but Machu Picchu, and to be honest South America in general was never a place that 'called' me. However, I am a history teacher the more I learn about places and their history translates directly into my teaching. Every time we travel I try to bring something back to share with my students, whether it is pictures, pamphlets, artifacts, and stories, really anything that can give them a personal connection with what they are learning. Machu Picchu is one place that always peaks their curiosity and I wonder maybe if I go and 'feel it' the connection we make in the classroom will be stronger.
Day 3 of #bucketlist is to Climb Machu Picchu. I have to say this is something that has only recently (past 5-6 years) been an obsession of mine. Yes, I love traveling but Machu Picchu, and to be honest South America in general was never a place that 'called' me. However, I am a history teacher the more I learn about places and their history translates directly into my teaching. Every time we travel I try to bring something back to share with my students, whether it is pictures, pamphlets, artifacts, and stories, really anything that can give them a personal connection with what they are learning. Machu Picchu is one place that always peaks their curiosity and I wonder maybe if I go and 'feel it' the connection we make in the classroom will be stronger.
Machu Picchu is perhaps the most amazing creation of the Inca Empire. Its breathtaking scenery between the Andes and the Amazon Basin, makes Machu Picchu one of the greatest artistic and architectural accomplishments anywhere and it is the most significant tangible legacy of the Incas. Built on a steep hill there are abut 200 structures that make up the religious, ceremonial, astronomical and agricultural center. Even today, many of the mysteries of Machu Picchu remain unsolved.
Machu Picchu is perhaps the most amazing creation of the Inca Empire. Its breathtaking scenery between the Andes and the Amazon Basin, makes Machu Picchu one of the greatest artistic and architectural accomplishments anywhere and it is the most significant tangible legacy of the Incas. Built on a steep hill there are abut 200 structures that make up the religious, ceremonial, astronomical and agricultural center. Even today, many of the mysteries of Machu Picchu remain unsolved.
Needless to say, I can't wait to take the trek up Machu Picchu. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
Needless to say, I can't wait to take the trek up Machu Picchu. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
#Bucketlist Day 2
#Bucketlist Day 2
11/12/2017
Day 2 of #bucketlist takes me to Mexico. To be specific it takes me to Chichen Itza. It was in 5th grade when I first laid eyes on the archeological beauty that is Chichen Itza. The picture of the site greeted me daily just after opening my Social Studies book. I would obsess for hours about visiting the site and imagined all the things that must’ve happened there once. My friends never knew, I imagine they didn’t even see the picture or remember it today. On a visit to Cozumel a few years ago I was able to visit a Mayan archeological site and my desire to experience Chichen Itza grew exponentially. One day I’ll go with the kids and my husband, and we’ll spend all day getting lost amongst the old pyramids and common areas. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned
Day 2 of #bucketlist takes me to Mexico. To be specific it takes me to Chichen Itza. It was in 5th grade when I first laid eyes on the archeological beauty that is Chichen Itza. The picture of the site greeted me daily just after opening my Social Studies book. I would obsess for hours about visiting the site and imagined all the things that must’ve happened there once. My friends never knew, I imagine they didn’t even see the picture or remember it today. On a visit to Cozumel a few years ago I was able to visit a Mayan archeological site and my desire to experience Chichen Itza grew exponentially. One day I’ll go with the kids and my husband, and we’ll spend all day getting lost amongst the old pyramids and common areas. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned
#Bucketlist
#Bucketlist
11/11/2017
Today is Veteran’s Day, my dad was a veteran his stories of travel around the world inspire me to travel and take my kids along with me. Growing up he would tell me about Athens, Rome, Madrid, Saigon, and at times Morocco. Through him I traveled the world from the comfort of his lap. There was one trip he wanted to take before dying and that was to return to the coast of Italy and admire the Mediterranean Sea one more time. So, as soon as I could afford to take a trip to Europe that is where I went.
Today is Veteran’s Day, my dad was a veteran his stories of travel around the world inspire me to travel and take my kids along with me. Growing up he would tell me about Athens, Rome, Madrid, Saigon, and at times Morocco. Through him I traveled the world from the comfort of his lap. There was one trip he wanted to take before dying and that was to return to the coast of Italy and admire the Mediterranean Sea one more time. So, as soon as I could afford to take a trip to Europe that is where I went.
I have decided to start a #Bucketlist series. #Bucketlist will consist of places I want to see, people I want to talk to and things I want to learn and or do.
I have decided to start a #Bucketlist series. #Bucketlist will consist of places I want to see, people I want to talk to and things I want to learn and or do.
Day 1 consists of camping under the glow of the Northern Lights. I have always enjoyed camping, my dad and I camped out at the beach in Puerto Rico, my kids and I have camped in amusement parks, Yellowstone, and in Turner Falls, Oklahoma. I love camping, there is something about being 100% disconnected from the world and just seeing time pass by slowly that is very enjoyable to me and even more so when the people I love are there with me. The Northern Lights can be seen from various parts of the northern hemisphere and are very intriguing to me. The way they dance in the nothingness of the sky and in complete unison amaze me. How can imperfection be so perfect?
Day 1 consists of camping under the glow of the Northern Lights. I have always enjoyed camping, my dad and I camped out at the beach in Puerto Rico, my kids and I have camped in amusement parks, Yellowstone, and in Turner Falls, Oklahoma. I love camping, there is something about being 100% disconnected from the world and just seeing time pass by slowly that is very enjoyable to me and even more so when the people I love are there with me. The Northern Lights can be seen from various parts of the northern hemisphere and are very intriguing to me. The way they dance in the nothingness of the sky and in complete unison amaze me. How can imperfection be so perfect?
Day 1 down. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
Day 1 down. What will tomorrow bring? Stay tuned.
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