0 In 2026/ Traveling

Two Perfect Days in Boston: Where to go, What to Eat, and Why Boston Needs to be on Your Bucket List

Boston had been on my bucket list for years. So when my husband, Ted, got invited to speak at Harvard right around my 50th birthday, I knew I had to join him.

We only had two days, but that turned out to be exactly enough: one full day to explore the city of Boston, and one more to wander Harvard’s campus and watch Ted give a phenomenal talk to a room full of leaders. By the end of it, I understood why people LOVE this city – and why, especially this year, it deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Day One: Wandering Boston

I flew in, dropped my bags at the hotel, and hopped in an Uber straight into the city. I started my adventure in Beacon Hill, the most beautiful and historic neighborhood in Boston. The homes are 200 years old and absolutely breathtaking. I giggled with delight at every block.

I even stumbled upon the bar that inspired Cheers. Naturally, I had to walk in. Nobody knew my name, so I kept walking.

From there, I strolled through the first public garden in the United States, then The Boston Common, which was established in 1634 and became the first public park. It was here that I bought a ticket for the Freedom Trail. You can absolutely walk the trail on your own for free, but I love a good story, so I splurged ($18) on the narrated tour. Our guide walked us through Boston – explaining how different sites shaped American history. Every guide tells different facts and stories, and every group asks unique questions, so you could do this tour over and over, and never have the same experience twice. I LOVED the tour and look forward to doing it again.

Another option for exploring Boston is the hop-on, hop-off trolley that drives around the city, narrating important facts and stories.

After the tour, I purchased an obligatory cannoli at the North End of town. There’s a big competition about which bakery makes the best one. I tried Modern Bakery, next time I’ll get one from Mike’s to determine who makes the better pastry. They are almost across the street from one another, so you can try them both and decide for yourself.

Next, I walked to the site of the Boston Tea Party, where I stopped at the gift shop for an ornament. Later, I ducked into a restaurant that once served the very signers of our Constitution. Sitting there, I was nearly in tears thinking about how those same floors once held the people who built this country.

Exhausted and happy, I caught an Uber back to the hotel, and ended having dinner with Ted.

Day Two: Harvard, Birthday Lobster Rolls, and JFK’s Table

I woke up on my 50th birthday to avocado toast and Coconut Coffee at the Phin Coffee House (SO GOOD).

Next, I rented a Bluebike – there are pick up and drop off spots around town – rent a bike for the FULL day or the minutes add up FAST. (Don’t ask me how I know) Exploring Harvard’s campus on bike was an adventure and a delight. The turns are sharp and the brick sidewalks are historic, beautiful, and BUMPY! I was in AWE of the gorgeous architecture, stately churches, and centuries of history packed into a few square blocks. Knowing I was walking the same steps as Thomas Jefferson, JFK, and John Adams gave me chills. I stopped at the bridge to watch the rowers practice and wandered out to the football field just to take it all in.

Later that day, I got to sit in the audience and watch my husband give a phenomenal talk to a room full of leaders, one of those proud-spouse moments I won’t forget.

That night, we headed back into Boston for dinner at the bar inside one of the city’s most storied hotels; the kind of place where presidents and historical figures have stayed for generations. I ordered a fabulous lobster roll and a cup of clam chowder, which I’m convinced are the two non-negotiable things you must eat in Boston.

After dinner, the host took us to the very table where Jackie and JFK got engaged.

Why You Should Go – Especially This Year

I cannot recommend a trip to Boston enough. It’s a city where you can stand in a garden, a tavern, a church, a print shop, or Paul Revere’s home, and feel the weight of the people who gathered there to build a nation.

This year, there’s an extra reason to go: 2026 marks 250 years since America’s founding, and Boston is throwing a celebration to match.

Every year since 1776, the Declaration of Independence has been read aloud from the balcony of the Old State House. During the Bicentennial in 1976, Queen Elizabeth II stood on that very balcony for the reading, exactly 200 years after Bostonians tossed British tea into the harbor. In a nod to history, and a good sense of humor, Boston even reimbursed the Queen for the long-lost tea.

If you’ve ever thought about visiting Boston, this is the year to do it. Walk the Freedom Trail. Eat the lobster roll. Stand where history happened. I spent my 50th birthday there and walked away with a deeper love for this country and the people who built it, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate 250 years.

If you’ve been to Boston, leave a comment and tell me what you love about this city.

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

Want more travel posts?

Click here to read my Travel Guide for Minnesota’s North Shore

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Chicago Travel Guide

South Haven, MI Travel Guide

Colorado Springs Bucket List

June 22, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Book Review/ Raising boys

Best Books for Teen Boys: The Ones Worth Trading Screen Time For

If you have a teenage boy, you probably already know that getting them to read can feel like negotiating a peace treaty.

I’m not above a little strategic motivation. Around here, reading can earn you your favorite dinner, a little cold hard cash, or both. On the flip side, if you don’t touch a book, you won’t touch your phone. The investment will pay off in ways that last far longer than summer break.

Because once you find the right books, something shifts. Boys who “don’t like reading” suddenly can’t put a book down. The key is choosing stories that are fast-moving, real, and full of grit, courage, and purpose.

Here are some of our favorite, teen boy-approved reads:

1. The Wright Brothers by David McCullough

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Two bicycle mechanics from Ohio with no college degrees, no government funding, and no guarantee of success, changed the world forever. This is a story about failure, persistence, and the audacity to believe you can do what no one has ever done. This book is for the teen who wants to read about how an impossible dream can come true!

2. The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

Nine young men from America who went to the 1936 Berlin Olympics and stunned the world (including Adolf Hitler) by winning the gold medal in rowing. This is one of the most thrilling underdog stories ever told, and it’s all true. Brown focuses especially on Joe Rantz, a boy who grew up with almost nothing, and shows how teamwork, sacrifice, and sheer will can carry you further than talent alone. Your son won’t want to put this book down.

3. Chop Wood Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf

This short book may be the most quietly life-changing one on the list. It follows a young man named John who travels to Japan to become a samurai, and the wisdom his sensei teaches him isn’t about archery at all. He learns how to build a life worth living through daily discipline, humility, and process over outcome. In a world of instant everything, this book teaches boys something countercultural and essential: that greatness is built in the ordinary moments, one day at a time. Great for any boy involved in sports, the arts, or anything he wants to pursue with excellence.

4. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing

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In 1914, Ernest Shackleton and his crew set sail for Antarctica. Their ship became trapped and crushed by ice. What followed was nearly two years of survival against conditions so brutal it’s almost impossible to believe. Lansing reconstructs the story from diaries and interviews, and the result is one of the greatest survival narratives ever written. This book will make your son look at his own challenges differently. Whatever he’s going through, it’s not the Antarctic. And somehow, that’s incredibly motivating.

5. God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew

Brother Andrew was a young Dutch man who began smuggling Bibles behind the Iron Curtain in the 1950s, driving through communist checkpoints with nothing but his faith and a prayer. This memoir reads like a spy thriller, except it’s real, and the stakes were life and death. It’s a story of one person’s radical faith, courage under pressure, and conviction that some things are worth risking everything for. I recommend this book for any teen asking big questions about faith, purpose, and what it means to stand for something.

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6. The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles

This one is a little different from the rest of the list. It’s a novel set in 1954 and follows eighteen-year-old Emmett Watson, freshly released from a work farm, who plans to drive west with his younger brother to start a new life. Instead, two uninvited companions hijack the trip and send everything sideways. Towles is a masterful storyteller, and this book is funny, surprising, and genuinely wise about brotherhood, justice, and what it means to forge your own path. A great choice for the boy who likes his stories with a little more grit and imagination.

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7. The Blind Side by Michael Lewis

If your son loves football, hand him this book first and don’t say another word. Michael Lewis tells the remarkable true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager from Memphis who was taken in by a family and became an NFL first-round draft pick – but it’s also a fascinating deep dive into how the game of football itself evolved, and why protecting a quarterback’s blind side became one of the most valuable skills in sports. Lewis makes you care about strategy, statistics, and a kid’s life all at once. For football lovers, this is the one that turns them into readers.

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8+. Heroes of History Series by Janet & Geoff Benge

If you haven’t discovered the Heroes of History series by Janet and Geoff Benge, you’re in for a treat. These biographies are written in a narrative, story-driven style that makes history feel like a fast-paced fiction novel.

Start with George Washington: a man of humility, faith, and extraordinary perseverance who held a struggling nation together through impossible odds. Then try Daniel Boone, a frontier adventurer who embodied courage and self-reliance in the American wilderness, or Abraham Lincoln, a man of honesty and moral conviction who navigated America’s darkest hour with quiet strength. Benjamin Franklin captures the story of a scrappy, apprentice who became one of history’s greatest inventors, writers, and statesmen, proof that curiosity and hard work are a powerful combination. And don’t miss George Washington Carver, a man born into slavery who became one of America’s most brilliant scientists through faith, perseverance, and a refusal to let his circumstances define his ceiling. Round it out with Theodore Roosevelt, a sickly, asthmatic boy who became an amazing leader. And for the boy who loves exploration and or US History, Meriwether Lewis is a must – the fearless co-leader who helped map an uncharted continent and opened the American West.

Any one of these is a great starting point. Your sons might end up like me, wanting ro read the entire Heroes of History series.

The Bribe Is Worth It

Whether it’s Culver’s or cash or staying up late to read one more chapter – don’t hesitate to incentivize. Reading is a habit, and habits need momentum. Once a teenage boy discovers that a book can genuinely thrill him, challenge him, and even change the way he sees himself, you won’t need the bribes anymore.

This summer, give him stories worth reading. The rewards will last a lifetime.

What book does your teenager love? Leave a comment!

Need GIFT ideas for a teenager in your life? I’ve got you! Click here.

Here are the best books I read last year.

Here are some of my favorite parenting books!

June 12, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Peek into our Week/ Things to do in Minnesota

A Peek into My Week: Little Moments, Big Joy

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Mother’s Day recap

This Mother’s Day, I asked my boys to take over the household chores for the day, while I put my feet up and enjoyed the day off.

Clark was my driver and he owned the kitchen. Paul tackled laundry (washing, drying, folding and putting away – he survived). Luke vacuumed. George organized our pantry, which means we can actually find things in there.

I have decided that a clean house is my love language, especially when my sons are making it happen.

I rewarded them with lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings, where I discovered what might be the best-kept secret in casual dining: four people can eat unlimited appetizers for $12 total. Not $12 each. Total.

And the BWW cheese curds? They melt in your mouth. I’m not usually a fan of cheese curds, but these were SO good and our favorite of all the apps we tried.

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Where I’m going:

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I attended a Yelp elite event at a locally-owned Game Show Studio. It was absolutely SO much fun. We laughed. We cheered. We played. Who’s coming with me next time? (This is not a rhetorical question. Text me.)

Paul’s final middle school choir concert was this week, it’s a bittersweet end of an era. Twice a year, parents would gather to watch their kids sing, while also trying not to laugh (success rates varied). Kids dressed up. Parents caught up. It was a whole thing. Now it’s over, and I’ll be honest: I’m going to miss it. The kids are going to miss absolutely nothing about it, and they’d like you to know that.

Also this week – Basketball games with Clark and baseball games with Luke – the boy hit a triple this week and earned the game ball!

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What I’m watching:

Remarkably Bright Creatures – The movie was just released on Netflix and I loved it as much as I loved the book. Watch it!

and …

American Idol – I can’t remember if I’ve ever watched a full season from beginning to end, but one night the auditions were on, and Hannah Harper started singing. She had me at string cheese (you’ll have to watch her audition to understand). I just had to follow her entire journey. She won and watching her try to sing that beautiful final song through tears made me teary too.

I also had a flash back to 2008 when one-year-old George and I were sitting in the living room and American Idol was on in the background. He stopped playing with his toys and turned to watch the contestant sing. I remember it because I was finally like, “Oh, this is a show we can actually both enjoy together. No more Baby Einstein.” Now he’s 18, a senior in high school, and sitting next to me on the couch, doing his homework while we watch the finale. This is a bittersweet moment for me because I’m remembering watching the show with baby George and feeling like time has passed too quickly. I share the memory with George and tell him it’s the last time we will watch American Idol together and he said, “Mom, I’m not dying, I’m just going to college!”

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What I’m listening to:

A song I’ve had on repeat — you need it in your ears immediately.

Lectio – an amazing prayer app that starts and ends my days.

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What I’m loving:

Everything is blooming in Minnesota! Finally. Birds singing. Ducklings hatching. If you live in the frozen tundra, you understand on a cellular level why spring feels like a gift – we’ve earned it after surviving another winter, and we are going to appreciate every single sunny day like it’s the most beautiful thing we’ve ever seen. Because it is.

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What I’m making:

Egg bites

Click the link – these are a game changer for breakfast on the go.

Veggie soup (the clean-out-the-fridge edition)

Open the refrigerator. Grab every vegetable that’s been quietly judging you from the crisper drawer. Sauté or boil them with some chicken broth. Blend. Marvel at the fact that you turned wilting veggies into something genuinely delicious.

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Thanks for peeking into my week!

May 15, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Memories/ Product Recommendations/ Raising boys/ Traveling

Cruise Tips & Tricks We Learned (So You Don’t Have To)

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We just got back from a Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas cruise, and not only was it an incredible trip, but it was also such a special way to celebrate a senior year milestone.

Four mom + Four Sons = One Unforgettable Adventure

I wrote this on instagram:

A week we’ll never forget. I’m so grateful for this time away with our senior boys – laughing until late, great conversations, exploring new places, and soaking in every last moment before the next big season of life.

From deck views and dinner memories to our snorkeling adventure, this trip was more than a vacation… it was a celebration of who these boys have become. Strong, kind, funny, and ready for what’s next.

So thankful for the friendships, the memories, and these incredible seniors we’re so proud of. Senior trip: success.

Not only were core memories made, we picked up a bunch of helpful tips along the way – some practical, some surprising, and some we wish we knew ahead of time. If you’re heading on a cruise soon, here’s everything that made our trip smoother, more fun, and even more memorable.

Getting On & Off the Ship

I was honestly nervous about how to get on and off the ship, but it was SO incredibly easy. They’ve made it smooth and very organized. Don’t stress about this part. When you get to the port, signs and people are there to direct you with where to drop your bags and board the ship.

I was also nervous about the fact that we booked a flight the SAME day as the cruise. Thankfully, our flight left on time and we went from the airport to our Uber to walking right onto the ship. You can avoid some stress by flying in early, but it CAN work to fly in the morning of the cruise.

Bring These — You’ll Be Glad You Did

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The CRUISE KIT (Pictured above)!!
Shampoo and conditioner – there was only ONE mystery liquid in the shower. I did NOT bring my own shampoo or conditioner so I used the mystery. My hair survived, so yours might too, but I wish I would have brought my own stuff.
Motion sickness medicine, Tums and Tylenol
Earbuds
Sunglasses/hat/Sunblock
Bathroom spray (tiny shared bathroom = must)
Reusable shopping bag. I brought a reusable shopping bag that folds up into a tiny pouch. This was great for bringing things to the pool, and for excursions/beach days.
Plastic container + baggies for leftovers or open snacks.
Pack clothes in your carryon. The staff takes your bags right when you get dropped off at port and you won’t get them til night. Pack shorts, t-shirt, sandals and swimming gear in your carryon so you can enjoy the cruise from the moment you step on board.
Reusable Water Bottle – You can get water at meals, but water bottles are $1 each. Save yourself some $ by bringing your own bottle!
CASH – The cruise does charge extra money every day for tips for all staff, but you might want to bring more for those who are extra helpful! For example: Excursion crew members, bag attendants, your room attendant, and your waiter. Also, bring money if you eat at a restaurant OFF the island.

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Optional:

Poncho (rain happens, especially on excursions)
Towel clips (pool towels blow away easily)
Small extension cord (no outlet by the bed)
Football If you have boys, they’ll love playing with this at the beach.
Magnetic Door decorations
Post-it notes to leave notes for your roommate, room attendant, or stick on a friend’s door.
Bandaids and neosporin
A book – A good book + a great vacation = pure delight!
Underwater Camera – I wish I had this to capture the beauty we saw underwater!

Order a Cruise Kit from Amazon! Click on this link!

Cabin Info (Helpful to Know)

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No iron in the room and no self-service laundry (you can pay for both). I recommend that you bring clothes that don’t require ironing.
There ARE drawers and a closet with hangers.
There IS a safe in the room.
Unpack when you arrive and slide suitcases under beds to save space in your room.

Food & Drinks Tips

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Black coffee with cream and sugar – FREE in multiple spots.
Starbucks is available for purchase. Bonus: All food at Starbucks is NO charge.
Pizza place in the promenade is open LATE every night and serves three types of pizza and no charge. Pepperoni, cheese, and pizza of the day – all delicious. Gluten free and veggie upon request.
Dinners in the main dining room are amazing – no need to upgrade. Every dinner included steak, seafood, pasta, chicken and vegetarian options for no extra charge. The menu changes every night and you can order anything you’d like.
When you get onboard, go straight to Windjammer for a great lunch and lovely view. Then explore the ship.
Cococay beach day has food INCLUDED in several large lunch areas.
Water, coffee and juice included. Pop/soda extra.
Alcoholic drinks are about $14 each. HOWEVER, there is a DRINK OF THE DAY for $8.50 and margaritas are $6 from 4-6pm everyday.

Best Spot on the Ship

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Find the helicopter pad for amazing views and great photo opportunities. It was one of our favorite hidden gems.

Entertainment Tip

The shows were absolutely FANTASTIC. The family comedy show had every person in our group laughing for the ENTIRE show. Thank you PETE. We also loved the fabulous “Broadway” shows, as well as the game shows.

Excursion Highlight

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If you’re going to Cozumel, I highly recommend snorkeling. It was one of the highlights of our trip – amazing fish I’ve never seen, every color of the rainbow. An unforgettable experience for all of us.

Gym Lovers

The gym is amazing – no extra charge, full of equipment and everything you need for a great workout. Pack work out clothes.

One Last Smart Tip

Book your Uber the night before you leave the ship. Everyone is trying to get transportation to the airport at the same time on the morning you leave.

Cruises are such a fun vacation, and I honestly can’t wait to do it again. I hope these cruise tips help you feel more prepared and relaxed before you step on your ship!

Want more travel tips? Click here to read all about Marco Island!

This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase one of the items I’ve recommended, I may earn a commission.

April 24, 2026 By Kathryn

2 In 2026/ Book Review/ Product Recommendations

The Five Best Books I’ve Read So Far in 2026 (What Should I Read Next?)

The best books I’ve Read in 2026 (and help me decide what to read next!)

If you know me, you know I LOVE to read! So far, I’ve read (or listened to) 18 books in 2026. Some were good, some were fine… but a few truly stood out.

These are the five I keep thinking about and recommending:

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1. The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhorn

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This has been my favorite book of 2026. It’s a historical fiction novel inspired by the real-life midwife Martha Ballard, set in the late 1700s.

It’s beautifully written and layered with mystery, justice, and resilience. I loved how it highlighted the strength and quiet courage of women in a time when their voices weren’t always heard or valued. It’s the kind of book that makes you pause and think, and made me feel a little more grateful for the world we live in today.

Read if you like: historical fiction, strong female leads, and a bit of mystery.

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2. Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten

I really enjoyed listening to Ina Garten read her own memoir – she’s a great storyteller!

Her journey from working in government to taking a bold risk on a small bakery in the Hamptons, is both fascinating, and inspiring. It’s a great reminder that success often comes from taking risks, working hard, and being ready when opportunities show up.

I’d recommend it if you like: food, business, or a really interesting life story.

3. As For Me Devotional by Adrienne Camp

This devotional has been such a grounding part of my mornings. It’s a study on the book of Psalms, and I found it both practical and encouraging.

The entries are meaningful without being long, which makes it easier to stay consistent. Your book purchase includes access to online video teachings that correspond with the lessons. Thanks to my sister Kara for recommending this one!

Read if you want: something that strengthens your faith, gives you a deeper understanding of the book of Psalms and how God’s Word is still very much alive and active in 2026!

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4. Theo of Golden by Allen Levi

This book is quiet, thoughtful, and full of small moments that end up with deep meaning.

It’s about community, kindness, and the impact one life can have on others.

Read if you enjoy: character-driven stories with heart and depth.

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5. Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell

This is a beautifully written, deeply moving novel loosely based on William Shakespeare’s family.

The book explores love, grief, and how loss shapes us. Shakespeare loses his son who’s the same age (and similar temperament) to my son Luke. I haven’t cried so hard reading a book since “When Breath Becomes Air.” However, I still found the book incredibly interesting, engaging, well-written, and worth recommending.

My take: extraordinary writing and powerful story.

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What Should I Read Next?

Now I need your help, what should I read next? (Leave a comment by clicking the little box next to to the title of this post.)

I’m always looking for books that are:

Meaningful (not just entertaining)
Well-written
Thought-provoking or encouraging

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Click here to see the BEST BOOKS I read in 2025.

April 18, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Recipe

Protein-Packed Egg Bites for Busy Mornings: 3 Recipes

Skip Starbucks: Make Your Own Egg Bites

Looking for a healthy, protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to make ahead? These homemade egg bites are perfect! Inspired by overspending at Starbucks, these are more cost-effective, healthier, more flavorful, and fully customizable. Ideal for busy mornings or meal prep. Before I get to the recipes, let me share two of my favorite tools that make life easier and cooking more satisfying:

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My Favorite Tools for Perfect Egg Bites (Mother’s Day Gift Idea!)

1. Veggie Chopper

This chopper makes prepping veggies ridiculously easy. Perfectly diced in seconds (and so satisfying to use).

2. Silicone Muffin Pan (Game Changer for Egg Bites)

The egg bites just pop right out. Total game changer.

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Cheesy Veggie Egg Bites

Ingredients:

6-7 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
2 chopped mini sweet peppers
2-3 chopped mushrooms
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: diced onions or cooked bacon/sausage

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spray a SILICONE muffin tin with cooking oil.
In a bowl, crack eggs.
Stir in spinach, peppers, mushrooms, cheese, salt, pepper, and any extras.
Pour mixture evenly into muffin cups.
Bake for around 12 minutes until set and lightly golden.
Let cool slightly, then remove from tray. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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Mediterranean Egg Bites

Ingredients:

7-8 large eggs
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped red peppers or tomato
1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin pan.
Crack eggs in a bowl.
Add feta, peppers, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
Divide mixture evenly into muffin cups.
Bake 12-15 minutes until set.
Cool slightly before serving.

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Cheesy Jalapeño Egg Bites

Ingredients:

7-8 large eggs
1/4 cup pimento cheese
2 chopped jalapeño peppers
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease pan.
Crack eggs in a bowl.
Add peppers, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix.
Pour mixture evenly into my favorite muffin pan.
Bake around 12 minutes until set.
Cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Egg Bites

Don’t overfill: Leave a little space at the top of each muffin cup; egg bites rise slightly.
Mix-ins: Customize with your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.

These egg bites are simple, nutritious, and versatile – perfect for anyone who wants a quick, satisfying breakfast without the Starbucks price tag!

Which recipe will you try first? Leave a comment!

Want more recipes?

Check out these amazing protein peanut butter bites.

April 8, 2026 By Kathryn

2 In 2026/ Easter/ Raising boys/ Teens

Easter Basket Ideas for Teenagers (They’ll Actually Love)

Shopping for teens at Easter can be tricky. They may have outgrown toys and Easter egg hunts, but they still love the fun of an Easter basket. The key? Think practical, meaningful, and just-for-fun items they’ll actually use.

Here are some Easter basket fillers perfect for teenagers:

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Practical & Useful Favorites

New charging cables (they always disappear!)
Portable phone charger
Baseball cap
Makeup bag or toiletry pouch – I love this set!
Water bottle or tumbler

Teens love items they can throw in their backpack, sports bag, or car – and these get used daily.

Faith-Based & Meaningful Gifts

A Bible or devotional (My teens just requested this Bible)
Cross necklace or bracelet – My teen requested this necklace and this bracelet.
Scripture cards (Make it easy to memorize Scripture by providing cards they can set by their bed or tape to the mirror)
Journal for prayers or gratitude

These small gifts keep the focus on the true meaning of Easter while still feeling personal and special.

Fun & Active Ideas

Frisbee – One of my teens requested this frisbee boomerang
Pickleball set
Cologne/perfume
Nee-doh
Hacky sack
Dude Perfect Game

Snack & Treat Ideas

Protein snacks – My teenagers can’t get enough protein and LOVE these chips!
Gum or mints – This is the one my kids request!
Favorite candy – My teens love JOYRIDE!
Beef jerky
Bubbler or Alani drinks

Teens still like candy and snacks!

5 More Teen Easter Basket Ideas

Here are a few extras teens really love right now:

Chapstick or skincare items
Gift cards (coffee, fast food, apps)
Portable Speaker
Phone stand or pop socket
Socks (Nike, Adidas, or fun themed)

Most importantly…

As we fill baskets with fun surprises and useful gifts, let’s not forget why we celebrate Easter. It’s more than baskets, candy, and spring – it’s the celebration of Jesus conquering death. Because of Easter morning, we have joy that lasts far beyond Easter weekend.

Let’s point our teenagers to what matters most and give thanks for our RISEN Savior. He is the greatest gift of all.

Click here to find Easter basket suggestions for children!

This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item I’ve recommended, I may earn a commission.

March 29, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Peek into our Week

Life Lately: Keeping Up with the Egly Crew

Lately, life has been full, in the best kind of way.

Winter has kept us moving, especially with Paul spending as much time as possible on the ski slopes. He’s embraced the season fully, and there’s something so fun about watching your kid and his friends find joy in fresh air and ski hills. Meanwhile, Luke has been putting in work with baseball training, already looking ahead to spring and sharpening his skills.

On the work front, we now officially have two Target employees in the family. George has jumped into his new role at our local store and is loving it. He’s unloading trucks, stocking shelves, and staying busy his entire shift. It’s been really rewarding to see him take pride in working hard and being part of a team.

Clark just wrapped up his basketball season, and what a season it was. He had an incredible group of teammates and a coach who made the experience even better. Those boys were genuinely FUN to watch – such great energy, teamwork, and many memorable moments.

In the middle of all the busy, Ted and I managed to sneak away to Florida to visit some of our best friends. It was exactly what we needed – good conversation, amazing food, and beautiful weather. The kind of trip where you wish you could freeze time. I definitely considered how to “pack the beach” in my bag to bring home with me.

Back at home, I had a rare free Saturday with no sports on the schedule, so I spent the day watching some friends compete in a dance competition. It was so fun! I’m so used to cheering in gyms and on fields, so stepping into a completely different world of talent and performance was amazing.

Wrigley continues to live his best life, especially in the snow!

It’s been a busy and fulfilling season, but full of moments I wouldn’t trade for anything.

March 20, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Inspiration/ Minnesota/ Peek into our Week

Good News From Minnesota – You Won’t Believe What’s Happening Here!

It can feel like every headline about Minnesota lately carries heavy, discouraging news. But that’s not the whole story. Quietly, consistently, and often without recognition, good things are happening all around us. Lives are being changed. People are showing up for one another. Seeds of faith, kindness, and service are being planted every day.

I’m seeing it firsthand in my own small neck of the woods, and if it’s happening here, I believe it’s happening everywhere. Let’s start noticing it, sharing it, and talking about it. Here are TEN powerful stories of Good Things happening in Minnesota!

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1: Showing up before the sun comes up:

On cold mornings, in the middle of packed schedules — even on finals day — more than 100 high school students are waking up early for a breakfast Bible study. At 6:45 a.m., instead of hitting snooze, students are showing up for truth, community, and purpose (plus bacon and eggs). In a world that often says teens are checked out from faith, these students are showing us something different — they’re engaged, intentional, and choosing what matters most.

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2: People Who Keep Showing Up

Two high school students who show up every week to invest in middle school students!

Week after week, people from our community faithfully show up on Wednesday nights to invest in students. These are adults and teens who give their time, energy, and care simply because they believe the next generation matters. Some of the leaders are teenagers themselves, choosing to pour into middle school students and mentor those just a few years behind them. And one volunteer, even while battling cancer, continues to show up and serve, determined to give back and make a difference. That kind of commitment speaks louder than words. It’s a living picture of compassion, resilience, and love in action.

3: Courage to Walk In Alone

Wednesday night student ministry is drawing teenagers who have never been connected to church before. One girl from a non-faith background was invited by a friend and began attending regularly. When her friend couldn’t come one week, she still showed up, alone. That kind of courage is powerful.

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4: Dinner and Conversations

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Another meaningful source of good in our lives has been the growing friendship with neighbors who recently immigrated here on a green card. We’ve been sharing regular dinners together, learning about each other’s traditions, foods, and everyday experiences.

Hearing firsthand what life was like for them growing up under a communist system has been especially eye-opening for my sons. It has given them a deeper understanding of freedoms they’ve always known but never fully appreciated. Those shared stories have sparked gratitude, perspective, and thoughtful conversations. It reminds us all how powerful it is to learn from one another and to appreciate the blessings we often take for granted.

This family attended a Christmas Eve service and heard the Good News for the very first time. I gave them their very first Bible. Imagine that moment – hearing a message of hope that is completely new, completely life-altering … and the story has just begun.

5: Serving Selflessly

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Recently, my son George and one of his friends chose to spend their day off from school volunteering at a local community outreach center. No requirement. No reward. Just two young men deciding their free time could be used to serve others. They gave their time, their energy, and their willingness to help. That’s the kind of character that strengthens a community from the ground up.

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6: The Best Morning Ever

Our local church opened a new campus and I invited several students to serve with me in children’s ministry. After the service, one girl told her mom it was one of her favorite mornings of her entire life. Think about that … in a world full of activities, entertainment, and endless options, serving others stood out as something deeply fulfilling. Even more encouraging, she and other students have kept coming back to serve again and again.

7: Friends finding hope

Families are being impacted as well. I invited one of my mom friends to come to church with me on Sunday. She hadn’t attended church in over twenty years and now can’t stop talking about the hope and encouragement she’s experiencing.

8: He Came to Look… and Stayed to Serve

Before our new church campus opened, connections were already forming. When services were held at a local high school, the custodian who cleaned up afterward would often chat with us. When our campus launched, he came to check it out. Not only did he decide to stay, he signed up to serve!

9: Winter Joy!

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Another piece of good news is simply watching kids and teenagers grow up with so much to enjoy right here in Minnesota. They’re climbing up snow hills and sledding down, skiing and doing ‘tricks’ – see video below, ice skating (in the land of 10,000 ice rinks!), and playing basketball. They are laughing, moving, and fully living their childhoods. Even in the middle of long winters, there is joy, community, and energy everywhere you look. These ordinary moments are shaping resilient, active kids who know how to make the most of every season.

10. Bus Stop Bliss

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And sometimes, the good news shows up in the smallest, most unexpected ways. Every morning, Luke’s bus driver gives Wrigley a treat at the bus stop. When winter break ended and the kids were dragging their feet about going back to school, Wrigley couldn’t get to the bus stop fast enough. That simple, consistent kindness, and small gesture, turned a hard transition into something to smile about. It’s a reminder that joy doesn’t always come from big events, but from people choosing to be kind in little ways.

These stories may never make major headlines. They won’t dominate social media feeds. But they matter. They reflect courage, generosity, faith, and service lived out in ordinary places by ordinary people.

Yes, hard things are happening. But so is healing. So is compassion. So is transformation. So is hope.

Good news is being written every single day – in classrooms, in neighborhoods, in churches, in outreach centers, and in the hearts of people who choose to care for others.

Each story is worth telling.

Please share some good news that’s happening in YOUR neck of the woods!

Thanks for reading and please consider SHARING this post, commenting and subscribing.

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Seven Ways to FIND more JOY!

February 27, 2026 By Kathryn

0 In 2026/ Food/ Recipe

The Easiest Game-Day Dinner (or Anytime Dinner)

Some days call for fancy recipes.
Super Bowl Sunday is not one of those days.

This is my dump-and-go crockpot recipe. Minimal prep, big flavor, and flexible enough to feed a crowd or just your family. It’s creamy, comforting, and almost impossible to mess up.

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Crockpot Creamy Salsa Chicken

Ingredients

1 jar of salsa (any kind you love)
2-ish pounds raw chicken (breasts or thighs)
8 oz cream cheese
Optional seasonings: Tajín, garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, or chili powder

Directions

Pour the salsa into the bottom of your crockpot.
Layer the raw chicken right on top of the salsa.
Sprinkle on any seasonings you like (this is very forgiving).
Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
Add the cream cheese on top, cover, and cook for another 30–45 minutes until soft.
Shred the chicken right in the crockpot using two forks.
Stir everything together until creamy and well combined.

That’s it. Dinner is done.

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