Looking for inspiration + ideas for things to do with kids in Metro Detroit? Tried and true suggestions that real moms actually do? Here they are! Hungry Howie’s appreciates Moms and joins LittleGuide Detroit in spotlighting a local Mom each week in the #MomLife series. To take one thing off her plate and give her more time for fun, Hungry Howie’s is giving each week’s featured Mom a free pizza dinner for her and her family to enjoy. Thank you Hungry Howie’s for being the Official Pizza of Moms.

Are you following @ourwholevillage on Instagram? Patty is mom to 4 kiddos, a local travel blogger, and the owner of the travel agency, Our Whole Village which helps families plan unique, cultural travel experiences.

Meet Patty

Hi! I’m Patty Monahan. I was born and raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and lived in Hamburg, Bologna, Washington D.C. and Madrid before moving to the Detroit area. I have a stepson Aiden (14), two daughters, Sofia (12) and Julia (10) and “baby” boy Miles (2). 

My entrepreneurial journey started when I held my oldest daughter for the first time. She inspired me to build a life with more purpose. I left a legal career behind to explore something I’m truly passionate about. At Our Whole Village, we plan meaningful vacations for families who want to create lifelong memories and show their kids the world in a more conscious and intentional manner. 

I love planning vacations for families with kids of all ages, from babies to teens, and everyone in between. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram or my blog to find some family travel inspiration.

Favorite Ways To Spend Family Time:

  • Traveling
  • Biking or hiking out in nature
  • Cooking a meal together

Favorite Places To Go:

Favorite Bedtime Stories:

Favorite Family-Friendly Restaurants:

Best Park/Playground: Beverly Park (Beverly Hills)

We love Beverly Hills and Booth Parks. Both are a perfect distance away for us to bike ride to, have nice nature walks and great playgrounds for my youngest. And they have fun hills for sledding in the winter.

Best Family-Friendly Annual Event: Hallowe’en and Holiday Nights @ Greenfield Village (Dearborn)  

I love the decorations, the atmosphere, the joy in the kids’ faces as they explore the village.

Your Mom Must-Have: Hand Sanitizer & My Google Calendar

Hand sanitizer was the first thing that came to mind, followed by wipes, for practical reasons. I also can’t live without Google calendar on my phone. It keeps me organized and on track of work and school schedules.

Best Summer Destination or Event: Kayaking in Belle Isle (Detroit)

This is something I have done by myself, but have yet to do with the kids. Better yet if we can combine with a farm-to-table meal at the end of our experience.

“Pat Yourself on the Back” Accomplishment: My business!

Switching careers and building a travel business from scratch.

Our #MomLife Series is Presented by Hungry Howie’s – the Official Pizza of Moms!