Wild Hearts, Simple Days, Curious Minds: Traveling the Country with Our Daughters

Join us as we hike through national parks, explore the rich history and variety of cultures across the US, and embrace a simple, nature-connected lifestyle. Discover how road schooling enriches our daughters' education and curiosity through hands-on experiences, fostering a love for the environment, adventure, and learning.

Julie Otter

3/16/20251 min read

Niagara Falls, October 2024
Niagara Falls, October 2024

Hi there, and welcome! We’re a family of five—two parents, three spirited kids—navigating the beautiful chaos of modern life. Like so many others, we’ve found ourselves caught in a whirlwind of schedules, screens, and to-do lists, often wondering… “Is this really how we want to live?”

Lately, our hearts have been craving something more—a slower, more intentional pace. We’re dreaming of simplicity over clutter, meaningful adventures over routines, connection over busyness. We want to live mindfully, soak in everyday magic, and cultivate a deep sense of curiosity about the world and each other.

This space is where we’ll share our journey—our wins, our lessons, our messy middle—as we explore what it really means to live fully, gently, and together. Thanks for being here. Let’s take this first step toward a more grounded, connected life—one moment (and mile) at a time.

Niagara Falls, October 2024
Weekend road trip from Chicago to New York (because why not?)