An Inspiring Family

While working in the tourism industry, I meet quite a few interesting people from all over the world. There are some that stand out to me, and there are others that move me in such a way that I will never forget them. This family ignited a new spark in me; let me tell you a bit about them.

These guys are a family of four from Portland, Oregon, and they are traveling the world for a year. Todd and Laura Manfield both work online, which gives them the flexibility to bring their work with them anywhere they wish. Connor and Drew are school-aged boys that are full of life, and appreciation for the world. This family is so full of positive energy that it's contagious.

While traveling, Laura and Todd find a lot of their accommodation in New Zealand through WWOOFing (Willing Workers On Organic Farms), which allows the family to jump right into New Zealand culture and farming. They are able to create learning experiences for their boys throughout their travels by immersing them in diverse cultures and challenging them to analyze their adventures and write about them. I really admire the parenting styles of Laura and Todd. I think that it is so amazing that they challenge their sons to write about their experiences, and I also think that the lessons these boys are learning are much more invaluable that the lessons they would be learning in the typical American classroom.

This gave me a goal to strive for. This is something that I strive to do with my children in the future, and I can only hope to do it as well as they do. They are such an enthusiastic and eclectic family, and I'm not sure if they will remember me, but I definitely won't forget them.

Learn more about this whimsical family and their travels at https://www.travelingsons.com/

Connor and Drew write essays about the places they visit and different experiences that they have, and these essays go on their blog to share with the world!

#inspiration