*Current pictures in this post belong to American Cruise Line and is not the property of Caravan Sonnet - after the cruise is complete I will be changing these to my own pictures*
latest on the blog
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.jpeg "caravan sonnet- rebecca vandemark")
This is a girl excited to say hello to leaving for our River Cruise TOMORROW!!!... *smiles*
Happy Friday friends! I hope that you have had a lovely week! Y'all- I am so excited! If you missed the posts from this week I hope that these will be exciting for you also- and please follow along on this journey!
and
Here are also some of my favorite things from this past week! First of all....
Caravan Sonnet Classroom has been so amazing as I am listing TONS of new resources for the beginning of the school year this week and in the days to come!! Here is just one of the newest resources that are available in the shop:
This is for NEW and VETERAN teachers alike and is EVERYTHING you would need for the first week of Personal Finance! Start your personal finance course with purpose—to make this an uncommon year that is AMAZING!
SAVE YOURSELF TIME in this busy back-to-school time and still set your Personal Finance course up for success with this growing First Week Personal Finance Curriculum Bundle designed for high school, dual enrollment, CTE, homeschool, and introductory college Personal Finance courses. Whether you're teaching Personal Finance for the very first time or looking to refresh your existing curriculum, this bundle provides engaging, ready-to-use lessons, activities, classroom decor, and teacher resources to help you confidently launch your course.
This is more than a collection of worksheets—it is a comprehensive, growing curriculum designed to help students build strong financial literacy skills while saving teachers valuable planning time.
This Bundle Currently Includes 12 Resources:
⭐ Classroom Activities Including:
⭐ Bell Ringer Resources
⭐ Digital Classroom Resources
⭐⭐ALSO INCLUDES A BONUS FILE: EXIT TICKET FOR DAY 1!⭐⭐
AND MORE!! You can purchase this AMAZING resource and so many others today by clicking HERE!
I am also SO grateful for ALL of your support of this shop. Y'all... THANK YOU. This is something that I work so hard on behind the scenes and your support, reviews, and encouragement are HUGE. Thank you so much for all of your support of the shop! If you would like to check out the shop you can find it HERE!
Can I ask 2 HUGE favors?
(1)- If you are not already following the shoppe could you please do so? Even if you are not a teacher or don't plan to purchase things the number of followers does influence potential buyers and this would show incredible support! Simply click HERE!
(2)- If you have purchased something would you please take a moment and leave a review? It doesn't have to be long, but reviews are SO helpful to TPT owners like myself! Simply click HERE!
THANK YOU!
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When I was a teenager I tried to attempt a "stunt" (like I was a cheerleader- which in my defense I was so it made sense haha- please don't ask *smiles*) while I was water skiing. Suffice it to say the "stunt" went horribly wrong and I took a bad fall that hurt my back. About 7 years ago I was skiing (winter this time) and I took a very bad fall and between the two things- I can unfortunately end up in extreme pain if my back goes out... so one of the things that I have always been grateful for, has been the suggestion of THIS heating pad by one of my doctors about 12 years ago. I can't say enough good things about it and can't recommend it enough! If you have been around the blog the last decade then I also have to say that this was a huge help while I was extremely sick fighting Advanced Late Stage Lyme Disease and Cancer (and other things). The heating pads of this brand come in a variety of sizes (I use the medium size while my mom loves the small size).
For after my mom's knee surgery we also purchased the knee version and this was a huge help also. (You can find that HERE). There are tons of options of sizes, but if you are looking for a new heating pad definitely try these out. It definitely is an investment, but worth every single penny. Each one we have owned has lasted for about 5 years - so they last a LONG time! I just checked and on Amazon they are having a MAJOR sale today so definitely check that out!
.jpg "Top 10 Must Pack Items for a New England and Canadian Cruise")
With Caravan Sonnet turning 13 years old this year and us leaving for our river cruise tomorrow I love sharing on Fridays some of the older but most popular posts on the blog! One of the things that Caravan Sonnet developed into in the early years was a a resource for those looking for cozy luxury travel around the United States and World.
In the meantime, you can check out all of the travel and cruising adventures HERE!
I hope that you have a wonderful Friday friends! Thank you for making this such an incredible space to come to and connect with every single day. I am so blessed!! Please follow along, like, comment, and connect in the coming week on our trip over on Instagram!
Investing in a holiday park property can offer the perfect combination of lifestyle and long-
term value. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a family getaway, or a holiday
home that you can enjoy for years to come, choosing the right park is just as important as
choosing the property itself. Before making a purchase, it's worth taking the time to evaluate
the key factors that separate an average holiday park from one that delivers lasting
enjoyment and value.
1. A Desirable Location
Location remains one of the biggest influences on any property purchase. A holiday park
situated near popular attractions, scenic countryside, beaches, or walking trails is likely to
remain appealing year after year. Good road access and nearby amenities also make visiting
more convenient, helping you get the most out of your investment.
Think about how often you'll realistically use the property and whether the location suits your
lifestyle. A beautiful setting that is easy to reach often provides the best balance.
For buyers searching for static caravans in North Yorkshire, Thorpe Farm Holiday Park offers
a range of opportunities to explore. Taking the time to compare your options and ask the
right questions will help ensure your holiday park investment is one you'll appreciate for many years to come.
2. High-Quality Facilities
The facilities available on-site can have a significant impact on your overall experience. Well-
maintained grounds, secure parking, landscaped communal areas, and quality amenities all
contribute to a welcoming environment.
Some parks offer additional features such as cafés, play areas, walking routes, or fishing
lakes. While not every buyer needs extensive entertainment facilities, having attractive
amenities can enhance both enjoyment and the long-term appeal of the park.
3. A Strong Reputation
Before committing, research the holiday park's reputation. Look for signs that the park is
professionally managed and takes pride in maintaining high standards.
Questions worth asking include:
* How long has the park been established?
* Is the site well maintained throughout the year?
* Are current owners satisfied with the management?
* Does the park continue to invest in improvements?
A well-managed holiday park is more likely to provide a positive ownership experience over
the years.
4. Clear Ownership Costs
Understanding the ongoing costs is an essential part of making an informed decision. In
addition to the purchase price, ask about:
* Annual pitch fees
* Utility charges
* Maintenance responsibilities
* Insurance requirements
* Any additional service costs
Having a full picture of the financial commitment helps you budget effectively and avoids any
unexpected surprises after purchase.
5. The Right Type of Holiday Home
Different buyers have different priorities. Some are looking for a cozy weekend retreat, while
others want a spacious holiday home suitable for extended family visits.
Consider factors such as:
* Number of bedrooms
* Interior layout
* Storage space
* Outdoor decking or seating areas
* Modern fixtures and energy-efficient features
Choosing a holiday home that fits your current and future needs will make your investment
far more enjoyable.
6. Flexible Usage
Every holiday park has its own rules regarding occupancy and ownership, so it's important to
understand exactly how the park operates before purchasing.
Ask questions about seasonal opening dates, visitor policies, pet rules, and whether
subletting is permitted if that is something you may wish to consider in the future. Having
clear expectations from the beginning helps prevent misunderstandings later.
While no investment is guaranteed to increase in value, selecting a holiday park with
consistent maintenance, attractive surroundings, and ongoing improvements can help
protect your purchase over time.
Parks that continue investing in their facilities and landscaping often remain desirable to both
existing and future owners.
Choosing with Confidence
Buying a holiday home is about more than finding a property you like; it's about investing in a
location and community you'll enjoy returning to for years. By carefully considering the
location, facilities, management standards, ongoing costs, and ownership terms, you'll be in
a much stronger position to make a confident decision.
come along with us: our american cruise lines columbia and snake river adventure interary
July 22, 2026
In just a few days, Mom and I will be heading west for one of the adventures I've been looking forward to all year! We'll be embarking on American Cruise Lines' American Encore for our very first river cruise in the United States! After experiencing the beauty of European river cruising, I can't wait to discover the history, landscapes, and small towns of the Pacific Northwest from an entirely different perspective.
One of my favorite parts of preparing for a trip is studying the itinerary and imagining the places we'll soon experience. Today, I thought I'd share a glimpse of where this journey will take us.
(As with any cruise, ports, excursions, and schedules are always subject to change.)
Portland, Oregon
Our adventure begins with a night in Portland before the cruise officially begins.
We'll spend our first evening settling into our hotel near the airport, enjoying the excitement that comes before every journey. There's something special about that night before embarkation—double-checking the camera batteries, organizing travel journals, and realizing that months of planning are finally becoming reality.
Embarkation Day
The following morning we'll travel to Stevenson, Washington, where we'll board the American Encore at the Port of Skamania and begin our journey along the Columbia River. Embarkation day is always one of my favorite parts of a cruise.
Walking aboard for the first time, finding your stateroom, exploring the decks, meeting fellow travelers, and watching the shoreline slowly drift away never gets old.
Mount St. Helens & Kalama, Washington
Our first destination brings us to the Mount St. Helens and Kalama region. Like so many people, I remember learning about the eruption of Mount St. Helens in school. To finally visit this region and learn more about its history, geology, and remarkable recovery is something I'm genuinely looking forward to. One of my favorite parts of travel is seeing places I've only read about finally come to life.
Astoria, Oregon
Next we'll visit Astoria, one of Oregon's oldest communities and a city deeply connected to the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest. Located near where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, Astoria is also closely connected with the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1805–1806 at nearby Fort Clatsop before beginning their journey home. As a history professor, visiting places like this always feels like stepping into the pages of a history book.
Quiet Days on the River
One of the things I love most about river cruising isn't actually a destination at all. It's the journey between them. Watching the scenery slowly change from the deck, enjoying a cup of tea as the river winds through the Pacific Northwest, reading a good book, and allowing yourself to simply slow down is exactly the kind of travel I love most. AND there are so many things that American Cruise Lines has planned throughout each day that I can't wait to see what the itinerary offers! River cruising reminds me that sometimes the journey itself becomes the destination.
The Dalles, Oregon
We'll also visit The Dalles, one of the oldest continually inhabited areas along the Columbia River and an important center of trade for Indigenous peoples long before European settlement. This stop is one I'm especially looking forward to because of its rich history and beautiful location within the Columbia River Gorge. Places like this remind us that every landscape has stories waiting to be discovered.
Richland, Washington & Pendleton, Oregon
Our itinerary then continues into the Richland and Pendleton region. By this point in the journey, we'll have traveled through dramatically different landscapes—from lush river valleys and towering cliffs to rolling hills, vineyards, and wide-open skies. I love itineraries that reveal how diverse one region can truly be.
Clarkston, Washington
Our voyage concludes in Clarkston, Washington. Clarkston, together with neighboring Lewiston, Idaho, honors William Clark and Meriwether Lewis, making it a fitting conclusion to a journey that follows many of the waterways explored by the Corps of Discovery more than two centuries ago. There's something wonderfully poetic about ending a history-filled river cruise in a place whose very name reflects that story. I'm sure it will be bittersweet to disembark—but I already know the memories, photographs, and stories will stay with us long after the voyage ends.
Follow Along
Throughout the week, I'll be sharing:
* Behind-the-scenes life aboard the American Encore
* Beautiful scenery along the Columbia and Snake Rivers
* Historic towns and fascinating excursions
* Dining and onboard experiences
* Cabin tours
* Quiet moments on the river
* Our honest thoughts on taking our first river cruise in the United States
After we return home, I'll also be publishing in-depth blog posts, reviews, destination guides, and plenty of photographs and videos from the journey. I hope you'll come along with us. After all, some of the most unforgettable adventures aren't found halfway around the world—they're waiting right here at home.
Have you ever taken a river cruise in the United States? If so, I'd love to hear who you sailed with and where you sailed. And if not, which stop along our itinerary would you most like to visit?
five things i am looking forward to on our upcoming columbia and snake river cruise on american cruise lines
July 21, 2026
It is hard to believe that in just a few days we will be heading west for one of the adventures I have been looking forward to all year. After years of dreaming about exploring the Pacific Northwest by water, I am so excited to be partnering with American Cruise Lines as we sail the historic Columbia and Snake Rivers.
Every cruise has its own personality, and this one feels especially meaningful. While we've enjoyed river cruising in Europe before, this will be our first river cruise in the United States—making it another wonderful "first" in this season of new adventures.
Here are five things I'm especially looking forward to as we prepare to embark next week.
1. Experiencing Our First River Cruise in America
One of the things I love most about travel is discovering that extraordinary experiences don't always require crossing an ocean. We've wandered along rivers in Europe, and we have several new rivers coming later this year, but there is something incredibly special about finally experiencing river cruising here in the United States. I'm excited to discover how American river cruising differs from our European experiences while exploring some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes and historic waterways.
There is something wonderful about seeing your own country from an entirely new perspective.
2. Following the Footsteps of Lewis and Clark
As both a history professor and someone who genuinely loves American history, this may be what I'm looking forward to most.
The Snake and Columbia Rivers tell one of America's greatest stories. These waterways carried Indigenous peoples for thousands of years before Lewis and Clark navigated them during the Corps of Discovery Expedition. To sail through these landscapes while learning more about their history feels like stepping inside the pages of a history book.
I have a feeling this journey will become one I'll be referencing in my classrooms for years to come.
3. The Beauty of the Pacific Northwest
I've always been drawn to places where mountains, rivers, vineyards, forests, and open skies come together. It has been over 20 years since I spent time briefly hiking in Washington state and 20 years since I was briefly in Oregon. To go back to this area that I thought was intensely gorgeous is absolutely incredible. Everything I've seen of this itinerary looks absolutely breathtaking—from dramatic canyons and rolling vineyards to waterfalls and peaceful river mornings.
One of my favorite parts of river cruising is that the scenery is constantly changing. Instead of spending a day at sea, you're always surrounded by beautiful landscapes unfolding just outside your window. I cannot wait to wake up each morning to whatever view awaits us.
4. Slowing Down and Simply Enjoying the Journey
One of the reasons I love river cruising so much is that it naturally encourages a slower pace. Rather than rushing from one destination to the next, the journey itself becomes part of the experience. Quiet mornings with tea or coffee, watching the scenery drift by, meaningful conversations, unhurried meals, and evenings spent reflecting on the day's adventures are some of my favorite travel memories. As someone who believes deeply in slow travel and living intentionally, this style of travel feels like coming home.
5. Discovering American Cruise Lines
Every cruise line has its own personality, traditions, and style, and I'm genuinely excited to experience American Cruise Lines for the very first time. I'm looking forward to learning about life onboard, meeting the crew and fellow guests, enjoying regional cuisine, exploring the ship, and discovering all of the thoughtful details that make this experience unique. One of my favorite parts of travel is sharing honest experiences that help future travelers know what to expect, and I can't wait to bring you along throughout the journey.
Over the coming days I'll be sharing our travels—from our overnight stay in Portland to embarkation day, life onboard, excursions, and all of the little moments that make a journey memorable. If you've ever dreamed of exploring the Pacific Northwest or have wondered what it's like to take a river cruise in the United States, I hope you'll follow along.
Here's to another beautiful adventure—and another wonderful first. Interested in taking a similar cruise? Check out the one we are on HERE!
Have you ever taken a river cruise in the United States? I'd love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
*Current pictures in this post belong to American Cruise Line and is not the property of Caravan Sonnet - after the cruise is complete I will be changing these to my own pictures*
financial snapshot activity | personal finance back to school resource | caravan sonnet classroom
July 20, 2026
Happy Monday friends! I hope that you had a wonderful weekend! Today I am so excited to share with y'all one of the newest back to school resources in the Caravan Sonnet Classroom!
If you would like to go directly to this resource you can click HERE!
One of the most amazing things about this resource is that it is meant and designed to be used TWICE! Students complete it during the first week of class and again during the final week of the course to measure their financial growth!
Start your personal finance course with purpose—not paperwork.
The Financial Snapshot™ is a beginning-of-course reflection and pre-assessment designed to help high school and college students examine where they are financially today while envisioning the future they hope to build. Rather than testing financial knowledge, this activity encourages students to think about their financial habits, goals, concerns, confidence, career aspirations, and life dreams before instruction begins. Students complete the same activity again at the end of the course, creating a meaningful before-and-after comparison of their financial growth.
Whether you're a first-year personal finance teacher looking for an engaging first-week activity or a veteran educator wanting a meaningful way to measure student growth, this ready-to-use resource requires little preparation and creates a memorable starting point for your course.
This resource includes:
✔ Student Financial Snapshot Activity
✔ Teacher Instruction Guide
✔ End-of-course reflection suggestions
✔ Teacher implementation tips
✔ Ready-to-print PDF format
Students will reflect on:
* Current financial experiences
* Financial confidence
* Future career plans
* Salary expectations
* Education goals
* Homeownership dreams
* Entrepreneurship interests
* Travel and retirement goals
* Spending and saving habits
* Financial concerns
* Long-term financial goals
* The financial knowledge and skills they hope to develop throughout the course
Why teachers love this activity:
✔Meaningful first-day or first-week lesson
✔Encourages student reflection instead of memorization
✔Serves as a beginning-of-course pre-assessment
✔Creates authentic student growth documentation
✔Makes an excellent end-of-course reflection activity
✔Requires minimal teacher preparation
✔Appropriate for a wide range of learners
✔Encourages students to connect personal finance to their own future
If you would like to purchase this amazing resource click HERE! Thank you so much for all of your support of Caravan Sonnet Classroom!
*image is not property of Caravan Sonnet- found HERE*
Happy Sunday friends! I hope that you are having a great day! Last night on Instagram I asked if anyone had suggestions for Portland, Oregon? As I have shared I am so excited to be partnering with American Cruise Line and our upcoming Columbia and Snake River Cruise!
I haven't been to Portland, Oregon in over 20 years and my mom has never been so we are looking for lots of suggestions!
Thank you so much for your thoughts and ideas! Please feel free to leave your tips in the comments for others to read or email me directly! Over the years this community has been a storehouse and wealth of wisdom and so I truly appreciate your ideas!
Interested in taking a similar river cruise? You can read more about the cruise we are taking HERE!
Happy Sunday friends!
The professor is going back to school! There are some seasons where you get to be both the professor... and the student. This fall, I’m so excited to begin my second master’s degree, this time in History.
History has always been more than names and dates to me. It’s the stories, the people, the ideas, and the moments that continue to shape the world we live in today. The more I teach, the more I realize just how much there is still to learn.
So here’s to fresh notebooks, colorful highlighting and sticky notes, stacks of books, late-night reading, and another chapter of learning.
I can’t wait to share the journey—and, of course, bring everything I learn back into the classroom.
Here’s to becoming a student again.
Caravan Sonnet | Caravan Sonnet Classroom | Graduate School | History Professor | Back to School
History has always been more than names and dates to me. It’s the stories, the people, the ideas, and the moments that continue to shape the world we live in today. The more I teach, the more I realize just how much there is still to learn.
So here’s to fresh notebooks, colorful highlighting and sticky notes, stacks of books, late-night reading, and another chapter of learning.
I can’t wait to share the journey—and, of course, bring everything I learn back into the classroom.
Here’s to becoming a student again.
Caravan Sonnet | Caravan Sonnet Classroom | Graduate School | History Professor | Back to School
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