Jackie Semmens

Jackie is a coffee-lover, writer and a mom of three young children living in Helena, MT. She thought that hiking might help tame her children’s wild spirits, and co-leads a Hike it Baby branch. All that hiking only made her crew wilder, but in a good way. Before kids she enjoyed reading, knitting and baking, but now she enjoys making it to bedtime.

Lifehandle review

The lifehandle is laying on the ground. It is a gray strap, similar to a backpack strap, with reflective strips. It has a silicone handle at the bottom, with a fabric loop handle and a carabiner at the end of it.

What is the Lifehandle? The Lifehandle is a versatile sling that allows you to carry gear, equipment, and even kids with a little more ease. It also has a dog leash attachment for hands-free dog walking. I was really excited for the chance to review the Lifehandle because I’ve been dealing with some numbness and … Read more

Hiking and Camping with IBS

Hiking Camping with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It’s not a fun topic to talk about, but it’s even less fun when your IBS gets in the way of doing the hiking and camping that you love to do. I’ve dealt with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) off and on for years. And I … Read more

Fall Microadventure Ideas for Families

Adventures for fall near home Autumn is here! And we’re ready to get outside for some fall family microadventures. After a hot, hot summer, we’re all itching to hit that perfect window of warm afternoons and cool evenings, golden sunlight and golden leaves. But after we’ve hit the pumpkin patch and posed in front of … Read more

Car Camping for Beginners

Car camping for beginners

Camping beginners guide If you haven’t been camping since having kids, but are dying to sleep under the stars again, you’re not alone. For the last several years teething, night terrors, growing pains, and other nighttime problems have kept our camping plans on the back burner. But this year, my kids were begging us to … Read more

How to Get Kids To Go Outside

What to do with kids who don’t want to go outside Do you have a kid who is reluctant to spend time outside? It can be tough when as a parent we know all the benefits of a little time in fresh air. Less fighting, more joy. Less clean up, more adventure. Less screen time, … Read more

Camping Board Games for Families

Girl playing nature bingo on the beach

Games can be the perfect way to unwind for a lazy afternoon at your campsite, make a rainy night not so miserable, or satisfy your thirst for adventure when you can’t be out on the trail. But before you go out and buy each every game you think might entertain your kids this summer (guilty), … Read more