coloringthemap

Coloring the Map was born from the fact that we love to travel with our kids. Travelling together as a family allows us to not only create lasting memories with our kids, but it is the most raw, real and enjoyable time we spend together.

A common misconception is just because you have little kids means you have to stop traveling – I disagree wholeheartedly! Sure, it might require a few more bags and a little more prep, but in my opinion, not only is it more fun, but I truly enjoy being with my family! No matter what type of trip, my kids always gain something from it – they gain an appreciation for the beauty around them, they learn to respect cultures different from their own, or they learn to adapt to different situations thrown at them!

To keep the memories alive and continued learning, we bought a US coloring map and the kids (Easton’s is really my coloring skills) get to color a state in once we visit it. We talk about that state, its location, its cities, its landscape and we reminiscence on the memories created there. The maps hang up in our playroom, and at least once a week Emmie brings up a memory or fact about one of them.

We now have a map for Mom, Dad, Emmie and baby brother – and are excited to keep coloring them in. Added this year – an international map (pinch me – I’m so excited for our first family international trip)! I am hoping that each year that passes, we can color in at least one new state and one new country so we can continue to discover ourselves and this world!

This blog started out as mainly travel, but when friends kept asking for details on a craft I created or a drink recipe I made at a party, I decided to branch out and share it all. Coloring the map works for life as well…my “map” in life may not be set but my kids are coloring it full everyday.