A Gentle Reminder to Make the Memories


Dear Friends,

This week marks one year since the passing of our son, Finn. Last week we traveled to our former home, Lake Forest, Illinois, to dedicate a Little Free Library in Finn’s honor. It was such a special ceremony and it meant the world to be surrounded by family friends and our boys’ former teachers. You can find it HERE under charter #220237.

There are some dates that change you forever, and for us, May 19 is one of them. Over the past year, we’ve been reminded again and again that life is incredibly beautiful and heartbreakingly fragile. It has also reinforced something we’ve always believed deeply: the moments we share matter more than anything.

The trips.
The laughter in the backseat.
The goofy photos that never see the light of day.
The videos where everyone is talking at once.
The ordinary dinners that somehow become unforgettable.

When we travel, we often think we’re collecting passport stamps, checking off destinations, or planning the “perfect” itinerary. But what we’re really doing is building a library of memories. These tiny moments become priceless over time.

So today, we wanted to offer a gentle reminder:

Take the trip.
Get in the photo.
Record the silly video.
Say yes to the detour.
Capture the chaos, because the imperfect moments matter too.

Someday, those photos and videos won’t just be files on your phone. They’ll be treasures.

For us, travel has always been about connection. It’s about family stories, shared adventures, and making time for the people you love. That meaning feels even deeper to us now.

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to plan something special with your people, let this be your sign. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. A weekend road trip, a beach day, a reunion dinner, a walk through a new city, every little moment counts.

Thank you for being part of our community and for allowing us to share both the joy and reality of life with you.

Hold your people close. Take the picture. Make the memory.

With gratitude,
Kirsten

P.S. If someone came to mind while reading this, send them the text. Start the plan. Book the weekend. Don’t wait.

113 Cherry St. #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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Kids Are A Trip/Groups Are A Trip

Kids Are A Trip is an award-winning website and your go-to resource for family travel inspiration. I cover everything from travel tips and packing guides to detailed itineraries for destinations worldwide. My goal is to make travel planning simple and fun, with actionable advice and real-life stories that resonate with families at every stage of life. Groups Are A Trip is for trips with friends, family reunions, and multigenerational travel. More Groups. More Trips. More Memories.

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