Tag: Backyard Tourist

  • Sprouts Cooking School in Carmel, Indiana

    Sprouts Cooking School in Carmel, Indiana

    I attended a bloggers night at Sprouts Cooking School for Kids. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

    Spring break is around the corner and not too far after that it’s summer! If you’re looking for a good activity for the kids in Carmel, Sprouts Cooking School for kids is a great place to look.

    Sprouts Cooking School in Carmel, Indiana

    Related Content You May Also Enjoy: Riding the Nickel Plate Express

    One of my favorite “chores” around the house is cooking good food. More than just doing it though, I love getting my kids involved in the kitchen too. Most of the kids love helping choose our meals, and then preparing them.

    Sometimes we get so busy though, that I don’t take the time to really teach the kids how to cook. That’s where Sprouts comes in! As a gardener, I love the name they chose, but beyond that, they really make it quite an experience for kids from ages 3 to 13.

    The first thing I noticed walking into Sprouts was the awesome wall decor! I kind of want to find something similar for my own kitchen wall now.

    Sprouts Cooking School for Kids wall decor.

    During our VIP night, I took the 2 oldest girls. I wanted to see what it would be like for their age group as I want them to be a little more helpful in the preparation of our meals. We learned how to marble fondant and then made fruit kebabs to balance out the sugar cookie. Some fairly easy things, but I learned a few tidbits in the process myself.

    Learning to marble fondant

    Well Rounded Learning

    At Sprouts your kids won’t just learn how to cook, but they will learn about health and nutrition and the part food plays in that. The owner Stephanie has a degree in elementary education, but after her kids got into cooking with her and finding a lack of cooking schools for kids, she formed Sprouts!

    While the kids worked on marbling their fondant, a few of Stephanie’s employees walked around answering the kids questions, and helping with anything they didn’t understand. Their smiles were welcoming, and attitudes patient as they helped all the kids. It’s exactly what a cooking school for kids should be like.

    Fantastic employees at Sprouts Cooking School

    At the end of the night my girls were pretty thrilled with their creations, and I had renewed desire to really get in the kitchen with the kids. We walked out with some adorable fruit kebabs, and sugar cookies topped with marble fondant.

    More than that, though, is that my girls had a great night out with me. one even changed her tune from wanting a tablet for her birthday to asking for cooking classes. That’s a win in my book.

    Cupids Arrow aka Fruit Kebab

    Sprouts and Food Allergies?

    On the top of my mind when I’m around food these days is always allergies. When our son was diagnosed a little over a year ago, I read labels like crazy, and question everyone that might give my kid food.

    However, I want him to enjoy food and learn how to cook appropriate to his allergies as well. When I asked Stephanie how they handle kids with food allergies that want to come to Sprouts, I was pleased to learn they are a Peanut and Tree Nut facility.

    Now my son also has peach and sesame allergies, so for that I would just have to note that when signing him up. Then Stephanie will take the time to go over all the ingredients used in the class, and make sure everything is safe for him. It’s Stephanie’s belief that food should be fun for everyone. For that I am truly grateful and impressed!

    If you have a food allergy kiddo that loves cooking, Sprouts should be top of the list for summer camps.

    Sugar Cookies with marbled fondant
  • Star Trek at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

    Star Trek at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

    Where are my Trekkie’s? If you haven’t been to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis lately, you’ll want to make a trip out here. Open until April 7th, you’ll be able to check out the Star Trek exhibit featuring many items and experiences any Trekkie will love.

    Check out the Star Trek exhibit at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis!

    Before the exhibit opened, my family got a special invite to help film the commercial, b-roll, and pose for photos in the Star Trek Exhibit! I was geeking out.

    As a kid, I recall sitting with my Dad watching Star Trek – Captain Picard was our favorite, with Riker and Data helping to run the Enterprise. I could not wait to get a pre-look at the newest exhibit with my family without all the crowds.

    I worried a little bit how the kids would handle it. After all, despite my attempts, none of them were really interested in the Star Trek world. Add to that, it was taking a whole Saturday away from them and with 5 kids in tow one of them still needing a nap, I just hoped for the best!

    See the USS Enterprise model used in the films at the Star Trek exhibit at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

    My kids were awesome! Now it helped that the Children’s Museum served us breakfast, snacks, and lunch throughout the day, and these kids will do just about anything for food.

    We started by checking out the Captains chair in the lobby between exhibits. As part of the commercial they had me stand and take photos of 2 of the kids as they ran and jumped into the Captains Chair. This was fun, and also led to many many photos on my phone of these two cuties.

    Sit in Captain Kirk's chair at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis' Star Trek exhibit.

    From there we ventured into the actual exhibit where we saw the model enterprise that was actually used in the show, the original control panel from the first Star Trek season with Captain Kirk, and tons of costumes.

    To really experience the exhibit though, the museum has included a few hands on places for the kids. Using a large touch screen, you can scroll through the different plans of each starship. Or head to a corner booth and give your best “KKKHHHHHHAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNN” impersonation.

    It's Borg time! Check out the Borg's in the Star Trek exhibit at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

    Maybe you’ve always dreamed of beaming down to an alien planet? Just step into the transporter, hold still, and wait for Scotty to work beam you down. This was easily our families favorite part of the exhibit.

    Beam me up, Scotty! Experience Star Trek like never before at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

    Before you leave the museum, though, make sure you head downstairs to the planetarium where you can see the actual Escape Pod used in the 2016 film, Star Trek: Beyond. Have a seat and listen to George Takei narrate the multimedia experience!

    Here’s the final commercial, if you haven’t seen it yet. You’ll see my pig tailed child sitting with her brother in front of the escape pod. Yup. A whole day, and that’s what we got to do. Totally worth the whole experience!

    Just to keep it all real, while we did make it through a fantastic day of shooting a commercial (bucket list check!), the kids did start to drop at the end. I snapped this photo while one of the girls was finishing up her role making gross faces at Data’s severed head.

    What a day of shooting a commercial and media photos looks like....
  • Backyard Tourist: Riding the Nickel Plate Express in Atlanta, Indiana

    Backyard Tourist: Riding the Nickel Plate Express in Atlanta, Indiana

    Slow down this holiday season, and take a cozy ride on the Nickel Plate Express. We received a complimentary ride on the train in exchange for our honest thoughts. 

    Take a ride on the Nickel Plate Express in Atlanta, Indiana. ad

    Taking a train ride is a bit of an iconic experience in this country. Oh the trains are still there, but in our fast paced society, you’re more likely to hop in a car or take a plane. 

    One year as a small child, my family decided to take a train across the country to visit family. Normally we drove by car, but it was time to experience something else. I will always remember that ride. The swaying of the cars, and the gorgeous scenery of the country. 

    When I heard that the Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad would be preserving a piece of track just 30 minutes north of Indianapolis, I knew I wanted to take my kids on their festive ride. So I reached out! 

    Take a ride on the Nickel Plate Express. ad

    About the Nickel Plate Express

    The train is a historic 1956 Diesel Locomotive built for the Erie Mining Company. The cars are Santa Fe Hi-Level passenger cars, originally used on the El Capitan Luxury train from Chicago to Los Angeles. This means you sit on an upper deck, and get way better views of the surrounding area then the lower floor.

    Now we wouldn’t be able to call ourselves good Harry Potter fans is at least one of us didn’t wear their Hogwarts Robes for a train ride. Really now. All she’s missing is her wand. 

    Harry Potter fans will love riding the Nickel Plate Express in Indiana.

    While heading down the tracks, staff came around with candy, popcorn, and sticker activities. While the 30 minute ride didn’t warrant the need for these things, it made it that much more magical for my kids. 

    The train ride itself I thought was nice. We slowly crawled down the tracks, and the kids got to experience that swaying motion I remembered as a kid. Their favorite part was playing with the seats, and discovering all the different things they did. Footrest: check. Leans back: check. Tray: check.

    Riding a Hi-Level Passenger Car on the Nickel Plate Express. ad

    At the End of the Track

    We rode the fall express from the Arcadia Depot, near 105 Main Street, south to Noblesville High School. There the local FFA chapter had a fall harvest festival set up. We bowled pumpkins, did a little face painting, enjoyed some hot cocoa, and even brought home our own pumpkin.

    Fall Festival at the end of the Nickel Plate Express.

    After the ride was over I somehow got behind the rest of my family. This turned out to be a stroke of luck as I overheard there was an opportunity to check out the engine! So I let Mark take the kids up the road to check out the train museum, and I followed the Conductor to the engine. Climbing up into that was an experience in itself, but getting to sit in the conductors chair – just a neat experience all together. 

    Check out the engine on the Nickel Plate Express. ad

    While the fall excursion is past, currently the Reindeer Express is running. The train touts a look at Christmas lights along the track, and a visit with Santa for December riders. This sounds like the perfect time to hand out some “Polar Express” tickets to your kids, and read the best Christmas book with a train. 


    Who is the Nickel Plate Express For?

    The Nickel Plate Express is great for families. Kids will love the experience of riding on a train. 

    With that being said – I probably wouldn’t recommend it to everyone. Why you ask? Well, the prices are pretty high, especially for such a short little trip. They are still new, so the experience could definitely have more interactive parts during the ride. Some local people believe it’s just a gimmick, and would rather see it become a continuation of the Monon Trail. 

    So, while I thought it was a blast, I have a special love for anything historical. If my parents were going to come visit, I would suggest we go for a ride. However, if my mother-in-law were coming for a visit, I’d say this is something we would skip. 

    If you have a child who loves trains – go! You will excite them, and encourage their love. 

    If you enjoy getting hands on with history – go! Climbing aboard a Hi-Level and heading down the tracks will be enough to fill that love. 

    If you don’t mind things being a little pricey, and somewhat gimmicky – go! You can say you’ve done it.

     

     

  • A Trip to the Limberlost in Geneva, Indiana

    A Trip to the Limberlost in Geneva, Indiana

    For families on a budget, the best kind of summer vacation involves day trips to get to know their home state better. I received comped tickets to The Limberlost State Historic Site. All opinions are my own. 

    Take a day trip to The Limberlost, home of Gene Stratton-Porter - author of The Limberlost series. Check out these other places to visit in Indiana.

    In an effort to be better at budgeting, and pay off some debt, we decided this summer vacation we’d stick close to home. With day trips around the state, I wanted to really get to know Indiana. The past, the present, and the future. For our first family day trip, we headed to The Limberlost and the home of Gene Stratton-Porter in Geneva, Indiana. At $6/adult and $3/child, it’s truly an affordable visit for large families like ours.

    I recalled A Girl of the Limberlost as one of my mom’s favorite books so wanted to get a closer look at the author’s life, and the swamp that inspired her stories. I hoped it would lead to my kids enjoying our story time better, and give something they could talk to their Nana about. 


     

    Geneva, Indiana is a classic small town. Out in the middle of nowhere, with little cell service, it’s not a place you’ll just happen upon. It is, however, worth the drive out if you enjoy learning about authors, nature, and getting a dose of history. 

    Take a day trip to The Limberlost

    The first thing I noticed as we pulled into the parking lot was the interesting rock wall fence. It seemed a bit haphazard, and possibly falling apart, with gaps between every stone. During the tour, we found out that Gene purposefully had the wall built this way so that creatures such as bunny rabbits, could easily cross her lawn. Coming and going as they please. We understood the delight Gene must have found watching these animals as we saw our first black squirrel scurrying around the yard, in and out of the rock wall, and up a tree. 

    As we toured inside the house, the kids loved getting to know this author and her love of nature in the Limberlost. From the stuffed birds that were a part of Gene’s and her daughters’ life, to the music they made together – our tour inside was made enjoyable and exciting by our knowledgeable guide. We sat around a replica of her dining room table as the guide read a passage from A Girl of the Limberlost that described that very room. Suddenly, the book had come alive for all of us.

    Take a day trip to The Limberlost

    I’ve never seen my children pay more attention to a tour then they did this one. Could it be because we had already begun reading A Girl of the Limberlost? Or perhaps our guide’s excitement was that contagious. Either way, we had a lot of fun learning about Gene’s life in Geneva. 

    The kids and Mark all loved taking a turn playing the pump organ (not Gene’s original) in the music room, and all of us enjoyed sitting on the back porch learning how Gene would collect cocoons then string them up near her bed so she wouldn’t miss the butterflies and moths as they emerged.

    Take a day trip to The Limberlost

    Any good trip ends with a visit to the gift shop. We got to see the largest moth hanging out in a butterfly habitat (I definitely should have written the name down…), tried to open a real bank safe that belonged to Gene’s husband, and enjoyed some other cool facts about the Limberlost. 

    Finally, we couldn’t leave without purchasing the Limberlost series. I’d been trying to read A Girl of the Limberlost on my phone to the kids, but it just wasn’t holding our attention that way. With fantastic prices, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. After a week of reading from the physical book, and the visit to the Limberlost fresh in our minds, story time got 100% more exciting with this purchase. I might have a slight book problem when it comes to things like this…but it’s all in the name of learning!

    Take a day trip to The Limberlost

  • Moscow Ballet’s The Great Russian Nutcracker

    This post is in sponsorship with US Family Guide bloggers. All opinions are solely my own. 

    Holidays are in full swing and it just doesn’t feel complete without a performance of the Nutcracker Ballet. Ever since I went with my mom as a toddler, I’ve been hooked on the ballet. 

    Moscow Ballet's the Great Russian Nutcracker

    Saturday Venice and I got to attend Moscow Ballet’s The Great Russian Nutcracker in the Murat theater at the Old National Center in Indianapolis. It was quite a treat. We dropped the other kids off at my sister-in-laws about 2, and then made our way to the theater. Though I live in Indianapolis, I’m on the outskirts, and haven’t driven much in the city. I thought I was giving myself enough time to get to the theater, but I totally should have left sooner!

    Moscow Ballet's The Great Russian Nutcracker

    When we got to the theater, the line was out the door and wrapped around the parking lot! So even though we were there a good 30 minutes early, we stood outside for 30 minutes. Thankfully the theater understood most people were still trying to get in, so they started the performance a half hour late. 

    Once we found our seats, I kept sneaking a peek at Venice to see if she was as excited as me. She most definitely was. Worried we wouldn’t get to our seats, Venice had me skip the concessions and souvenir table to get inside! 

    Moscow Ballet's The Great Russian Nutcracker

    Being a good patron of the theater, I did not take photos during the show. But the costumes were just as bright and awesome as the ones on the shows website. Absolutely awesome show! Venice’s favorite was during the second act watching the Arabian dancers. I would have to agree with her. I never knew anyone could bend or hold their bodies up like that! Just fantastic!

    During the intermission, we did manage to grab a snack from the concessions. Venice had a box of M&M’s and I chose a Salted Caramel Chocolate Croissant. Oo that was so decadent, and unlike any food I’ve had at the theater before. I offered Venice a bite but she stuck with her M&M’s. 

    Moscow Ballet's The Great Russian Nutcracker

    Planning a trip to Moscow Ballet’s the Great Russian Nutcracker? Here’s my takeaway

    • Get there early! 
    • Don’t expect the same Nutcracker you’ve seen before. Act II was much different then ones I’ve seen before. 
    • Bring a little spending money to check out the Souvenir table!

    Will you be attending the Nutcracker Ballet? Find tour dates and times for the Moscow Ballet’s performance here.

  • Backyard Tourist: Museum of Natural Curiosity

    Backyard Tourist: Museum of Natural Curiosity

    Before we left Utah my parents took us out to the new Museum of Natural Curiosity at Thanksgiving Point. Oh, what a fun place that is. I watched as my children’s natural curiosities came to life in the world around them. This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated when you click on and purchase through them.

    We went to the Museum of Natural Curiosity on a Saturday morning which may not have been the best time since that’s when everyone else went, but it was still so amazing.

    Upon first entering, we headed to the basement to check out the tower of climbing madness. Thank heavens my brother, and parents were with us. We would never have kept track of the kids in there. I probably would have had a panic attack otherwise. Also in the basement is a toddler area, some fun side carnival type games, and then there was the Chamber of Courage.

    A pitch black tunnel you must navigate through by touch, a few hand holes filled with who knows what – I did not participate here, but I think my brother had some fun taking the kids through the tunnel.

    After awhile the downstairs was just too much for Lincoln and me, so we headed upstairs to a water room. Oh we could have hung out there the rest of the day and this little boy was going to be in pure bliss. From the natural landscaping table to the whirlpool of water – any little kid that loves water and sand will have fun here. Once we started drinking the water though, I decided we should move on.

    There were three other rooms, but we only made it to one more. In here we found trains going around the ceiling that we could control from the train room. A huge building block room. And of course a stage with dress ups for the kids to put on their own play.

    Finally we headed outside where we found a zipline that the kids just absolutely loved. We were a little nervous Princess R might fly off the end, but she didn’t. What a blast. Head to 4:22 in the video to see the Zipline

    If you ever have the chance to visit Lehi, Utah make sure to check out the Museum of Natural Curiosity. You will not regret it.

    Find more things to do in your backyard


  • Backyard Tourist: Old Number 6 Book Depot

    Backyard Tourist: Old Number 6 Book Depot

    Last week I had the amazing opportunity to visit my brothers family in New Hampshire. I spent my childhood, the times where you really make some good memories, in a little town called Weare. 13 years ago, my family moved to Utah while I was in high school. For the first time, I was able to go back and visit.

    I was told by my sister Megan that I had to visit this bookstore in Henniker. I’m always up for bookstores, but wasn’t really expecting anything extraordinary. Let’s just say…I could have spent the whole day there.

    Let me introduce you to Old Number 6 Book Depot in Henniker, New Hampshire. If you live anywhere in New England, or plan on visiting I would recommend you drop by.

    Can you see where this is going?  You might be thinking, oh that’s nice, lots of dusty shelves, concrete floor, not the nicest bookstore ever. BUT, if you’re anything like my family, the surroundings don’t matter. These are used books, at varying prices and editions. For example, where else are you going to find these…

    I should have looked at these closer, but I do believe these are all first editions! I pulled out the Pickwick Papers I to gently look through, and perhaps see if it was affordable…not so much in my budget at $300. However, for the edition and condition, this book is worth every penny of that cost. 
    If you are visiting in the winter in the back of the store I found a comfy looking area to curl up with whatever book you happen to choose
    While I was taking this photo, the collection of Zane Grey novels jumped out at me. Some of the best western romance (clean) novels I’ve ever read. I’ve got my own small collection, but nothing like this. Too bad I could not remember which ones I own, or I would have purchased a few more to come home with me. 
    To be honest, I needed more time to really get into this store. My first visit was much more of a discovery of the store and layout than actual books I’d want to read. Oh it was fun though. If you happen to have children and still want to visit, no worries, there’s a childrens section of books, and some toy bins to help keep them entertained. 
    Quite literally the books are stacked floor to ceiling. You will find no wasted space at the Old Number 6. I’m pretty sure my eyes were going cross eyed the whole time, so very few actual book titles stuck out to me, that’s ok though. Just knowing a place like this exists is wonderful. 
    By the way….there’s an upstairs to this place too. I can tell you that was a complete surprise, and cause for burst of excitement when stumbling across the staircase hidden behind a couple of bookshelves. You’ll find more world histories and politics on the second floor. 
    On the staircase itself you’ll find some college textbooks and college/university histories. Off to the left of the stairs as you go up is where you’ll find the Charles Dickens collection. If you want more old books like those you’ll find plenty scattered throughout the store depending on the subject. The following shelves however were my favorite to just gaze at though. I mean really. Old books are such a delightful find. 
    If you can read that note, you’ll realize just how old some of these books are; 1700’s old!! My heart be still. I don’t care that they are condensed reports of the supreme court which I would probably find boring for today’s records, but these. Let me open you and immerse myself in another time. 
    Shortly after finding these books, I decided it was probably time to purchase the Issac Asimov book I found, and continue on our sightseeing day. Only problem I wasn’t entirely sure which book aisle I needed to turn down to get out. Thank goodness for the simple Exit signs down at eye level. 
    I hope you enjoyed this tour of Old Number 6 Book Depot in Henniker, New Hampshire. If you ever get to visit, or have been there before, I’d love to hear about it!  
    What old bookstores are near you?
  • Backyard Tourist: Hogle Zoo

    Backyard Tourist: Hogle Zoo

    Backyard Tourist: Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City

    Over Memorial Day Weekend we decided to head out to the Zoo – Hogle Zoo to be precise. Located at the base of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City, it spans 42 acres and contains over 800 animals. Although pricey, we truly enjoy making it here at least once each year. The kids especially love seeing all the animals.

    Sadly, we went on a day it decided to rain, but it did mean less people crowding around the glass and fences – so it was one of those give/take moments. Our first stop was in the gift shop for some umbrellas since we forgot to bring ours, and then to pick up a covered double stroller. We were planning on renting a red wagon, but they don’t have umbrellas.

    visiting Hogle Zoo in the Rain

    Our first stop on the way in, were the Elephants. We arrived just as mom and baby were coming out. They walked around for a little,but quickly returned inside. I’m guessing they didn’t care much for the rain either. In 2009 Hogle Zoo had their first African Elephant born to momma Christie – Zuri.

    Zuri - African Elephant born at Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City

    I love the Elephants, but we decided to continue on when they went inside. So off we went to the monkey house. My pictures here didn’t turn out too well, I think a setting was changed on the camera – but there are a good number of primates hanging in branches and jumping around in here.

    After leaving the monkey house, we found ourselves facing a pretty fun looking kid area – perfect for an early break. With a lighthouse slide, wrecked ship, and wading pools, there’s plenty for the kids to have fun with. When it’s not raining, I’m told there is a spout that will also spray water periodically – so on those hot days you visit, you can cool down.

    Kids area at Hogle Zoo

    We had to cut the kids time there short when the need for a restroom arose. Thankfully a quick consult on the map, and we found 2 restrooms within a quick walk. We possibly missed an animal or two on our way, but we made it. After that pitstop we decided to hang out with the harbor seals. I think they are my personal favorite to watch as they glide through the water.

    harbor seal at Hogle Zoo
    They were a bit hard to catch on camera too. The seals are found in the Rocky Shores Exhibit along with Polar Bears, River Otters, and Sea Lions, and Grizzly Bears. As part of the exhibit 400,000 gallons of water are filtered and recycled into the exhibit pools. That’s a LOT of water!
    Polar Bear at Hogle Zoo
    We headed up a hill and got a glimpse of the Tiger hiding out in his hut, but then found we wanted to head back down the hill to avoid missing the indoor wildlife center – housing amphibians and birds. 
    Siberian Tiger at Hogle Zoo
    Sadly, I’m sure due to rain, the bird show was not going on. If you do make it to Hogle Zoo, though, you have to check out the bird show. Its pretty awesome. 
    On our way though we had to stop and get some pictures with the many statues around the park, and drink out of the lion’s mouth. 
    Hogle Zoo

    Hogle Zoo

    Hogle Zoo

    We of course couldn’t help ourselves when it came to the Apes. I mean really now, you’ve got to see just how far you can puff your cheeks out when standing next to this bust.

    And you know you’ve got to make some grunt a bit when comparing your height and arm length to that of a Male Gorilla!

    It was interesting as I read up on Hogle Zoo, to see all the information they provide about the animals. You can learn quite a bit just from their website. They go further though and encourage you to get involved, to help animals in the wild, and really learn what is happening to the different species.

    For example, Gorilla’s biggest threat is Bush Meat – meat that villagers hunt for their families to live. By educating us, we get to learn more and do our part to help sustain the animals around the globe. Pretty cool huh?

    Finally the zoo is not complete until you’ve ridden the Conservation Carousel featuring 42 hand carved animals. A great place to regroup, let the kids be kids for a minute, and take a break for your feet.

    Conservation Carousel at Hogle Zoo
    On our way out we realized we missed the Lion. What’s a visit to the zoo without seeing the Lion?? There was quite a crowd around him though, so we stood afar off, and held the kids up to see as best they could. It’s no wonder he’s the King of the Jungle – so much pride as he sat there allowing everyone to view him – very regal indeed. 
    Lions at Hogle Zoo
    As we left the Zoo, we ran into none other than Molar Man – the sole reason we went on a day of rain. A big shout out and Thank You to Burg Pediatric Dentistry for being the coolest dentist around, and sponsoring a patient appreciation day at the zoo. I don’t think my kids will ever be afraid of the dentist again. 
    Molar Man at Hogle Zoo
  • For the Beauty of the Earth

    For the Beauty of the Earth

    On this beautiful Memorial Day, we decided to take a family trip up to Heber Valley and walk around the Cascade Springs. It is a beautiful area. If you live in Utah, or ever have a chance to visit, I recommend taking some time to visit this natural beauty. While walking around and taking photos of the scenery and the kids, I couldn’t help but think of the words to For The Beauty of the Earth by Folliott Pierpoint. 
     
    For the Beauty of the Earth
    For the Beauty of the Skies
     
    For the Love which from our Birth
    Over and Around us lies. 
     
    For the Beauty of Each Hour
    Of the Day and of the Night
     
    Hill and Vale, and Tree and Flow’r
    Sun and Moon, and stars of light
     
    For the Joy of Human Love
    Brother, Sister, Parent, Child
     
    Friends on Earth, and Friends Above
    For all Gentle Thoughts and Mild
     
    I hope on this Memorial Day, you’ve taken a little time out to spend with your families. They are the reason men and women fight for our country, to protect our homes, families, and freedoms. To them I say Thank You – from the bottom of my heart, you are appreciated and not forgotten. 
  • Backyard Tourist: Provo Spring Festival

    Backyard Tourist: Provo Spring Festival

    Saturday night we headed out to Provo’s Spring Festival at Rock Canyon Park. Our first impression was to not even try and find parking, but I was determined to get out of the house as a family and have fun! So slowly we drove through the myriad of parked cars looking for some place relatively close. We managed to park right next to the playground – complete luck there!
    Princess C loves to let her voice be heard outside. She’s not scared here, just letting out a good ole scream of joy that slides can bring to kids. 
    Once we got the kids away from the playground we headed down the hill into the bowl of the park. I need to remember to come here to go running while the kids can also get some energy out. It’s so perfect! The hills make for great sledding in the winter as well (or so I recall from my teenage years). 
    We ended up wandering the food tents first, but since we had already eaten, we made  a turn about to go find the activities. 
    First place we stopped was a series of tents with different activities and Easter Eggs for the kids. Each area inside the tent had a little spring history from a different country, and spring type decor. We loved the big butterfly. but the kids had a whole lot of fun coloring an Easter Egg, making Japanese paintings, and paper kites in China. 
    After leaving the Spring around the world tent, I noticed the May Pole! I’ve always loved may poles, and thought it was such a fun springy activity. The girls thought it was pretty cool too, and got a little more energy out. I have to hand it to the workers at this activity, 10ish little kids running in different directions with ribbons, they did pretty awesome.
    Wasn’t that fun? Of course since it was the day before Easter, we got to meet the Easter Bunny while there as well, and even found a few extra special friends. 
    We had so much fun! Mark stood in line after these pictures to get balloon swords with the kids, and I took little Prince to the pony rides. Unfortunately we were told they were putting the ponies away soon, and would not get a turn. So off we went to check out the Humane Society and the dogs they brought. I’ve never been much of an animal person, but ever since we had to give up our dog to move last fall, I feel like we need a dog. My kids could use that little extra unbiased love from a furry friend. One day…one day.
    Awe! Isn’t that the sweetest. 
    It was starting to get late, and although the kids really wanted to stay and watch Frozen outside – Mark and I decided we really need to get our kids to bed. So we compromised and let them set up beds on the couch and watch Frozen at home until they fell asleep. Maybe this summer we’ll find another outdoor movie to go to. 
    Thanks PROVO for a Kid Friendly Spring Festival! We really appreciate free events like this!
    If you are going to be in Utah this year, here is a pretty comprehensive list of Utah Fairs and Festivals.
    I plan on attending at least the Strawberry Festival and hopefully one of the Scottish Festivals this year.