This summer, I leaned fully into motherhood and adventure by packing up my van with four kids, a mountain of snacks, and a few trusty barf bags. We hit the road for the Northeast, aiming for a family reunion in Boston. But our journey wasn’t just about the destination. Along the way, we made time for nostalgia, new memories, and a little chaos, too.
If you’re new here, hi, I’m Emily, a maternity, newborn, and family photographer serving Camp Lejeune and the surrounding areas. I specialize in capturing the quiet strength, soft storm, and beautiful in-between moments of motherhood. This road trip reminded me that real stories live in the everyday, the messy, the joyful and the fleeting.
If you found yourself soaking up the whirlwind and beauty of motherhood this summer, you’re not alone. If you’re thinking it might be time to capture those moments, I’d love to help. Come say hello on Instagram. Let’s talk about creating a session that feels true to your season.
Returning to My Hometown
Our first big stop was my hometown of Morrisville, Pennsylvania. Driving those familiar streets felt like flipping through the pages of an old scrapbook. We nearly made the entire drive without stopping, thanks to my no-devices-unless-we’re-road-tripping rule. Road trips are the one time screens are fair game. Motion sickness was the only thing that broke our streak. Thankfully, those Amazon puke bags came through again.
In Morrisville, we leaned into the slower pace and simple joys. It was the kind of motherhood and adventure that shows up in small, everyday moments. We made regular Wawa runs and visited the local planetarium, where the kids got lost in the stars. The county 4-H fair delivered fried food and local charm. One of my favorite moments was hitting the gym with my sister. There’s something about that Philly grit that always lights a fire in me. It also helped balance out the funnel cake.
If you’re part of a military family, you know how quickly time and duty can shift. Read Military Family Photography to see how I help preserve those fleeting moments while you’re stationed at Camp Lejeune.
Boston Bound
From there, we pointed the van toward Boston. The drive took us through New York City, and I white-knuckled it across the George Washington Bridge. Traffic was wild, and finding parking at our Airbnb was even more intense. I had to back our van down an alley with maybe four inches of space on either side. It was one of those motherhood and adventure moments I’ll never forget. I still can’t believe I pulled it off. I wish I thought to take a photo.
That night, we headed straight for Fenway Park. Seeing the Green Monster in person was a dream come true. The kids loved the kiss-cam proposals and the buzz of the Boston crowd. The subway ride back, though, was a little too exciting. Let’s just say the barf bags almost made another appearance.
Savoring History and Embracing Motherhood and Adventure
The next day was a blur of sightseeing and good food. We kicked things off with a duck boat tour that rolled through the streets and splashed into the river. After that, we explored on foot, walking until our legs ached, with plenty of stops for food, shopping, and photos along the way.
We visited the famous North Church and made a fun stop at the Cheers bar. For dinner, we landed at an Italian restaurant that served the most incredible pasta. We wrapped up the night with cannoli from a bakery so popular that the line wrapped around the block. It was worth every minute.
After days on the road with kids, I learned that what you wear makes a difference. Read Fashion Style Tips for easy photo-ready looks.
Coastal Motherhood and Adventure: New Hampshire to Maine
After leaving Boston, we continued our journey north along the coast. This leg of the trip gave us a slower rhythm and some genuinely memorable moments:
- Hampton Beach, New Hampshire: Each of the kids got to choose a live lobster from a tank to be steamed fresh. It was a little wild and a lot of fun. Most of them went all in, cracking shells and tasting something totally new. One kiddo, June, on the other hand, stayed loyal to her French fries and watched the seafood adventure from a safe distance.
- Scenic Drive to Portsmouth: We followed the coast into Portsmouth, where we stopped to explore the rocky shoreline. The beaches were pebbled, and the water was cold, but something was calming about the gray-blue waves and the salty air. It was a different kind of beauty, quiet and raw.
- Rest and Recharge: That evening, we checked into a hotel and finally had a chance to exhale. After days of movement, the slower pace felt like a gift. We all needed a reset.
- Cruising to Kittery, Maine: The next morning, we took a boat ride up the river into Kittery. The sea breeze, the lighthouse views, and the soft rhythm of the water made the whole experience feel like a dream. It was one of the most peaceful parts of the trip, and a moment of stillness I won’t forget.
This stretch of our journey reminded me that motherhood and adventure don’t always look bold or loud. Sometimes they’re found in calm waters, cold waves, and the simple joy of trying something new together.
Heading Home
Before heading home, we made a quick stop in Amherst, New Hampshire, to see more family. One night turned into two, and I’m glad it did. On the way south, I managed to fit in a last-minute photoshoot in New Jersey. It felt good to pick up my camera again after days of being behind the wheel. Photography has always been a way I process the beauty in everyday moments. After a week of full-on motherhood and adventure, it reminded me why I love helping other families freeze time, too.
When we finally arrived back in North Carolina, I walked into a surprise. While we were gone, my husband, Josh, had repainted the kitchen island, updated the ceilings, and even given the fireplace a makeover. Coming home to that transformation made me feel seen and loved.
Planning a getaway of your own? Read Babymoon on the Coast to see why it’s one of the best spots for a memorable maternity shoot.
How a Road Trip with Four Kids Reminded Me What Really Matters
Looking back, this trip stretched me in the best ways. Traveling with kids isn’t easy. It tests your patience, your stamina, and your packing skills. But it also fills your heart. Through every twist and turn, this journey reminded me why I chase motherhood and adventure so fiercely.
I hope my children remember more than just the long drives and motion sickness. I hope they hold onto the laughter, the late-night swims, the taste of fresh lobster, and the feeling of being part of something bigger. For now, I’m just proud we did it. Together.
If you’re a fellow mom who values the beauty in the chaos, I’d love to help you capture your own story. Whether you’re expecting, celebrating, or simply surviving, every season of motherhood is worth remembering. You can view more of my work or reach out to start planning your session. I’d be honored to document your journey.
