American West, California, Family, Holidays, New Year's Day, School, Style, Traditions, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Writing

The Magic Returns: The 133rd Tournament of Roses

After a hiatus due to the Covid19 pandemic, the Tournament of Roses parade returns to Pasadena, California- and with special significance for the Cranky Camper family.

Family, Kids, Opinion, School, Traditions, Uncategorized, Writing

Celebrations in the Time of Covid

As the Covid19 pandemic wears on, birthday and graduation celebrations have looked significantly different from before. While there were some disappointments and tears, there have also been unexpected blessings- like pets being able to participate in graduation parades.

Emergency Preparedness, Family, Opinion, Parenting, Safety, School, Uncategorized, Writing

The End of the World as We Knew It

It has been nearly four weeks since we closed our schools, began a stay at home order, and slowly backed away from life as we knew it. While the apocalyptic feeling of four weeks ago has not subsided, we try to balance the despair with moments of joy.

California, Emergency Preparedness, Family, Health, Hobbies, Kids, Parenting, Safety, School, Uncategorized

Life in the Time of Coronavirus

With equal parts optimism and doom, the Cranky Camper addresses feelings of stress, fear, and opportunity as a result of the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic.

Dinner, Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Historic Sites, History, Money Savers, Museums, School, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, Wine and Drink

The London Pass

To help keep costs down, we utilized the London Pass with the Oyster travelcard to save on activities and transportation. We used it for admission into the Churchill War Rooms, Westminster Abbey, and more. Another advantage was that it included activities not originally on our itinerary, like the Shard, from which there are stunning views of the city at night.