Originally published on September 4, 2011…on our first big road trip, with our five youngest, ages 5-18. We went five weeks down the Eastern Seaboard in a minivan.

I am finding it really difficult to keep up with my regular blog. I am actually finding it really difficult to keep up with Sparky. He is proving to be a traveler extraordinaire. But here are a few things I have to share with you when traveling with several children.

Be nice.  If you want them to be nice to each other, you have to be nice to them.  Even when you don't feel like it and even when it's really hard like in a minivan or before you have had that longed for cup of coffee.

Nota Bene:  I am not that good at this.  Here's hoping that by the end of this trip, I will have grown in this area.  God has his reasons why we are doing this, and it is not just about history. 

Talk Quietly.  Everyone else will follow suit.

Always carry a water bottle or two, and some snack food.  Someone is always sure to be thirsty or hungry every fifteen minutes.

Know where the public washroom is before you enter the big crowd.  In fact, know where every public washroom or sympathetic store owner is in a one mile vicinity of where ever you are.

Have a glass of wine before you head out in the evening.  No explanation necessary.

Enjoy street performers in cities.  If you stay for the show, express your appreciation in a tangible way.  Not just clapping.  Street performers are good example for your children about hard work and perseverance.

Walk slowly when you can.  And hold hands.

Make sure you and your Sparky allow each other to have a few minutes to yourself once in a while.
Even ten minutes for a walk or time to read really matters when you are intensely with your family, and nobody has their own space. 

I am praying for all of you.