Come to Massachusetts to get a new perspective on American history, to explore unusual art venues, to experience one of the country’s most dynamic cities, to indulge in delectable and varied dining, to marvel at sparkling seascapes and hike through…
Sarasota Festival of the Arts
Sarasota, Florida – It’s the third week in February, which means it’s time to visit the grandparents in Florida. It is unfortunate that Daddio’s vacation does not overlap with the twins’ vacation, so he does not usually get to come…
Highlights from Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – We only spent a few days in Pittsburgh, but I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by this unheralded city. There are vibrant, bustling neighborhoods, a hip and happening university district, excellent restaurants, and an authentic…
Basquiat at the MFA
Boston, Mass – The twins will have a total of 30-something days of in-school school this year. And they are going to spend three of those days taking standardized tests. Really? (Those of us who have been overhearing 5th-grade homeschooling…
Everyday Explorations
Boston, Mass – Lonely Planet has partnered with Ford Motor Co to promote everyday explorations in five American cities. Microsite “Rediscover the boundless searching spirit of America in these fresh looks at iconic cities across America.” Including Boston (copy by…
The Twins do DC
Washington DC – In another life, I used to live in Washington DC. In fact, this is where Daddio and I met, way back when (but that’s a story for another time). This year, we took the twins for their…
Gallerie dell’Accademia
Venice, Italy – Now I know what teachers feel like in the last week before summer vacation. We’ve reached the point where I’m ready to take field trips pretty much everyday. Honestly, nothing else is going to get accomplished here.…
Murano
Venice, Italy – The glassmakers’ workshop in Murano was obviously a hit with the twins, because: fire. (Twin S now asking for a blowtorch for Christmas.) But there’s more fun to be had on the island of Murano. We didn’t…
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Venice, Italy – The thing about Venice is that there is an abundance of magnificent churches and Renaissance paintings. The twins love art and architecture as much as the next 8-year-old, but… this isn’t exactly their genre. But that’s what…
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Venice, Italy – If I were independently wealthy, I would buy a palazzo on the Grand Canal and use it to house my fabulous collection of modern art and to entertain my artist friends. There is so much to love…