I’ve been looking forward to turning 40 since I was in my mid-20s. If you would have told me then that I could have skipped my 30s, I 💯 would have done it. I’m not going to get into all the reasons why. It doesn’t matter at this point. Because you know what? I didn’t get to skip my 30s. But I got through them, as rough as they were at times, and soldiered on…all for the reward of turning FORTY. *Cue angelic chorus.* But for as hyped as I’ve been to turn 40, I was struggling a bit yesterday as I assessed whether my life is where I want it to be as I enter this new decade today.

Editor's Picks, Most Popular, Mom Life, FamilyKylee ShireyMarch 27, 2020Single Mom, Birthday, Family, Friendship, Kids, FaithComment

Our Family's Obsession: 500 Places to Take Your Kids Before They Grow Up

The world is full of so many amazing places, natural wonders, history, manmade spectacles, and just simple beauty - I have to see it all! When my kids were born, I knew I wanted to instill that same love for travel in them. While they were still babies, I bought a book called, “500 Places to Take Your Kids Before They Grow Up.” This book has become our second Bible. For us, this is what we do. We collect memories and (soon) passport stamps. My kids have an insane appreciation for exploring and learning and experiencing new things. And I love the focused time that traveling together allows us to have.

Travel, Editor's Picks, Most PopularKylee ShireyFebruary 24, 2020500 Places, Travel, Single Mom, Travel with Kids, Family TravelComment

How to Start a Blog: An Introduction to Onward + Updos

The common adage, “sometimes life doesn’t go as planned” has certainly been true for me. (And by “sometimes” I mean a lot of times.) I suspect it’s true for you, too. But as I exit the last year of my 30s, I realize I am leaving this decade much stronger, more resilient and more fearless than 29-year-old me could have ever imagined. Through all the surprises and challenges life has thrown at me, my mindset has always been onward and upward.