Home Is Where You Park It - My Family Travels

The Milky Way as seen from Canyonlands National Park.
A giant tree from Seqoia National Park.
Three bears waddling away at Seqoia National Park.

I open my eyes and the metallic ceiling over me is reflecting the morning light. I slowly sit up and look out the window above my bed. The deep blue waves of the Pacific crash against the rocky shore. We are camping on a cliff above the ocean and we are on a real adventure.

I never really thought of myself as an adventurer. Then my family bought an Airstream trailer, and everything changed. We took our first cross-country trip when I was twelve. I couldn’t imagine what the rest of the country was like, but I was eager to find out.

In our trailer, my sister and I sleep at one end and our parents sleep at the other. In between is the kitchen, living room, and dining room all thrown together in a tiny area. It’s funny how you realize that you don’t need a house full of space and possessions to be content.

A question I get a lot is this: “What was your favorite place?” It’s a question I can never answer because of the wide variety of places I’ve been able to see. We visited many National Parks on our travels, so if I had to choose, all of these combined would probably make up my favorite place.

Arches National Park is dry and sandy. Everything as far as the eye can see is an orange-red color— and, as the name implies, it is known for its sweeping, red stone arches. On our visit I had the chance to climb a steep, rocky hill into the face of a wide arch. When I finally pulled myself to the top, what I saw was unlike anything I had seen before. Red arches and towering rock formations stretched for miles. The shadows overlapped each other, creating a contrasting world of dark and light down below. When I turned back, there was the road and the tour buses and the crowds of people, but in front of me, there was the vast, unexplored wilderness.

In Sequoia National Park, trees that are taller than skyscrapers and wider than cars grow in thick groves. This park is home to many bears, three of which we encountered on a hike through the looming forest. Oncoming hikers warned us that it was a mother and her two cubs. Knowing that it’s a bad idea to come between a mother and her young, we slowed our pace and watched for signs of movement around us. We spotted them on a hill, the cubs see-sawing comically on a fallen log while the mother grazed nearby. In time, they shuffled off in a line while we stood motionless with a gathering crowd of wide-eyed hikers.

One pitch-black night, we drove into the desert of Canyonlands National Park and spread a blanket on the ground. With no light pollution, I could see thousands upon thousands of stars. Stretched across the sky and falling to earth like a single brushstroke, the colorful, cloudy Milky Way made me feel like I was alone in space.

Now, at the ocean, I walk along the beach collecting shells and bits of sea glass. I listen to the waves approaching and falling back, I feel them wash over my feet, and when I look up, our silver Airstream is perched atop the cliff. Sunlight reflects off the water into my eyes, and I stare out, feeling that I am both so far from home and so close to it.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

0 Replies to “Home Is Where You Park It”

  • tibetour

    Harbin Ice Festival seems exciting. I want to join.

  • dam

    Hello! I’ve been following your web site
    for some tme now and finally got the bravry to go
    ahead and give you a shout out from Austin Texas!
    Just wanted to mention keep up the fantastic job!

  • Best

    wow ..enjoyed.looking forward for next blog..

  • UW STEPHEN

    Choosing the Best Travel Backpack is essential for a pleasant experience. Pick based on your travel needs, style, and interests. You may confidently and easily plan for your next vacation with the best travel backpack.

  • Sagar

    I want to do this type of ski , because I want to do this activity one time in our life

  • praca

    Thanks for finally talking about >Family Cruise Vacations Directory: Setting Sail for a Fun Adventure <Liked it!

  • Turkeytravel

    Thank you so much for your great article..This is giving us clues for our future tourism perspective and keeping us updated.. Thanks a lot.

  • pendik

    Hello! I could have sworn I’ve visited your blog before but after going through many of the posts I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely delighted I came across it and I’ll be bookmarking it and checking back often!

  • livro

    Thank you for providing these details.

  • irlandzkie

    My brother recommended I might like this website. He was totaly right.
    This post actually made my day. You cann’t imagine just how much time I
    had spent for this information! Thanks!

  • oferty

    whoah this weblog is wonderful i like studying your articles.
    Keep up the great work! You understand, many people are searching round for
    this information, you could hellp them greatly.

  • web

    Have you ever thought about writing an ebook or guest authoring on other blogs?
    I have a blog based upon on the same topics you discuss and would love to have you share some stories/information. I know my subscribers would
    value your work. If you are even remotely interested, feel free to shoot me an e-mail.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Planning a bucket-list adventure? Let’s dive in! From secret flight deals to off-peak gems, these hacks are our compass. Picture sunrise hikes, hidden cafes, and maps scribbled with dreams. So pack light, dream big, and let the world unfold, one hack at a time!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    In the quiet of night, meteors streak across the sky, a celestial dance choreographed by the universe. And then there are fairy rings, circles of mushrooms, whispered secrets from the forest floor. But amidst these wonders, there’s another magic: fatherhood. It’s like RVing through life, a journey of discovery, laughter, and love. So let’s embrace the art of wonder, both cosmic and familial.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trend; it’s our legacy.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Picture this: wheels rolling, laptop humming, and the open road as our office. For a year, our family worked remotely from our cozy camper. It wasn’t just about Wi-Fi signals; it was about sunrises over mountains, campfire brainstorming, and shared laughter. We learned that work isn’t confined to cubicles, it’s wherever our hearts roam.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    In Salem, MA, October casts a bewitching spell. Amid historic streets, the Witches of Salem weave magic—psychic fairs, spirited soirees, and sacred rites. It’s a season where history whispers, and the veil between worlds thins.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    As a family, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the planet. From reusable water bottles to supporting local artisans, our journey leaves a gentle footprint. Let’s explore, learn, and protect—because sustainable travel isn’t just a trendk, it’s our legacy.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    When wanderlust calls, these sites answer. From Expedia to Kayak, they weave magic into your getaways. Picture flights, hotels, and car rental. All bundled up like a gift waiting to be unwrapped. So go ahead, chase sunsets and collect memories. Your dream vacation awaits!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Picture this: snow-capped peaks, crisp air, and the thrill of gliding down pristine slopes. That’s what awaits at South America’s ski resorts. From Chile’s Portillo to Argentina’s Cerro Catedral, these resorts weave magic for snow enthusiasts. So grab your gear, chase the powder, and let the Andes embrace you!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Legoland California isn’t just a theme park; it’s a canvas where kids paint their dreams with Lego bricks. From the Technic Coaster’s gentle thrill to the Dragon Coaster’s whimsical castle ride, every moment is a memory etched in joy. And as parents? We pedal, laugh, and become part of the magic. Legoland, you’ve got our hearts, one brick at a time!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Summer vacations are a canvas for unforgettable family adventures. From exploring Alaska’s glaciers to savoring Parisian cuisine the possibilities are endless.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Watching rocket launches is an exhilarating experience that fuels our curiosity about the cosmos. ? Whether you’re at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida or gazing from afar the thrill of liftoff transcends age and ignites wonder.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Celestyal Cruises offers an unforgettable journey to the heart of Greece and the Mediterranean. With warm hospitality, authentic experiences, and award-winning service, they make every moment aboard a heavenly escape.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Awesome places to go to

  • Horace

    This post iis priceless. How can I find out more?

  • o poder

    Excellent site. Plenty of useful information here. 68971741

  • Sarah Samith

    Love travelling with my family as well! Thank you for sharing your stories!

  • Bail

    Insightful and useful – that’s what I admire about
    your posts. This one on this subject is no different.
    The tips and recommendations you offer are practical and create
    a real impact.

  • Heya

    Heya i’m forr the firsxt time here. I came across this board and I find It
    really usefu & it helped me out much. I hope to give something back and aid
    others like you aided me.

  • sklep

    Very nice article, totally what I was looking for.

  • Lorenzo

    check out this best tours in Canada for you or for your family https://seasonalholidaysinn.com/

  • Lorenzo

    A very helpful website! A good article to share the beautiful places suitable for all types of vacations.

  • AnthonyEloff

    La meilleure facon de s’enrichir rapidement !

  • greattibet

    A good website! A good article to share the beautiful places suitable for Spring Break. I think Tibet China, is also a good place for Spring Break.

  • ash

    Greetings! Very useful advice in this particular article!
    It’s the little changes that make the biggest changes. Thanks
    a lot for sharing!

  • Pretty

    Thank you for posting this.

  • Hiker31

    For family travel I would advise to go to Switzerland. For example, the Berner Oberland is perfect also for kids. Best place I’ve ever been.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    They have made significant investments in technology upgrades, port and destination projects, and more to achieve net carbon-neutral operations. They have committed to using innovative solutions to reduce their carbon footprint, including using new propulsion fuels and special hull paint to reduce friction. They are also working with ports to support their shore power development efforts.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Planning an Alaska adventure can be a daunting task but it sounds like you’re looking for some fun activities for kids in Alaska. The trip is guaranteed to be one for the memory books. Carnival cruise passengers get an up-close view of glaciers on an Alaska adventure aboard Native American canoes.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    Galveston is a great place for family reunions. If you’re looking for a fun and affordable place to host your family reunion, Galveston is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    This trip is designed to provide a fun and engaging experience for the whole family, with activities that cater to both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable family vacation, a family magic rafting trip is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    If you’re looking for a unique and indulgent way to explore Halong Bay, the Ambassador Overnight Cruise is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    If you’re looking for a unique and sustainable adventure that your family will never forget, UnCruise Adventures is definitely worth considering!

  • Celeste Hedequist

    It sounds like you’re looking for a last-minute summer vacation deal. You can find some great deals on destinations across the USA, from California to Florida, New York, Las Vegas, and more. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and plan around 6 weeks ahead of departure. You may even find incredible deals on last-minute vacations up to 1 week before you plan to travel if you are flexible with your destination. From budget-friendly breaks to vacations that are all about pure indulgence.

  • Celeste Hedequist

    It sounds like San Diego is offering some great deals and fun festivals for kids. Some of the attractions that are offering free admission for kids include the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego. Additionally, there are other fun activities such as axe throwing and film festivals that are sure to keep kids entertained. If you’re looking for a fun family outing, San Diego is definitely worth considering!

Comment on this article

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.